Tasks
- Control cool-season weeds before they mature and go to seed.
- Plants planted last spring and fall may need water if rainfall has been inadequate.
- Run sprinklers periodically through their cycles to maintain clean lines and to exercise the valves.
Pruning
- When harvesting blooms for arrangements, make cuts with an eye toward shaping the plant.
- Prune and shape dormant deciduous plants – shrubs and perennials.
- Cut away 50% of last year's growth on peaches and nectarines.
- Remove leaves from roses in January to force the plant into dormancy. This is not necessary with shrub or ground cover roses.
Fertilizing
- Apply nitrogen fertilizer to citrus trees prior to bloom.
- Always read labels carefully before applying fertilizer. Use only if necessary.
Planting
- Bare root planting season continues.
- Peas (both edible and decorative varieties) can be planted this month. Before planting, soak dried peas between damp paper towels in a shallow dish. Cover loosely with plastic and keep towels moist. Plant seeds when they're just beginning to sprout.
Enjoy now
- Annuals and perennials: Primrose (Primula polyantha), English primrose (Primula vulgaris), pansy (Viola), sweet violet (Viola odorata), Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima).
- Bulbs, corms, tubers: squill (Scilla bifolia), ‘Paper White' narcissus (Tazetta daffodils).
- Trees, shrubs, vines: Anthony Waterer spirea (Spiraea japonica), bridal wreath spirea (Spiraea prunifolia).
- Fruits and vegetables: lemons, navel orange, parsley.
Things to ponder
- Frost is possible when it is clear enough to see the stars. Remember to leave frost-damaged foliage until danger of frost has passed. Prune later if needed.
- Remove fallen camellia blooms promptly to prevent petal blight on next year's flowers.