Southern California Gardening

In my past career I managed a Landscaping company and was in charge of the maintenance division. All my accounts were in Newport Beach, therefore I know how to keep our gardens looking great year round, June gloom and all. I try to follow a plan monthly. I will keep you updated month to month on some of the key factors to keep in mind for that time.

June

You should have all your color planted by now. If not, run out to your local nursery and get Fuchsias, Hydrangeas, and Lantana. Fuchsias for the shade, Hydrangeas can handle some sun, and the Lantana for full sun, and it works great as a ground cover. All 3 of these are in full bloom now.

Pest control

• One of the most annoying pest you can get in your garden are white flies. They will devastate your plants. In the evening pre-chill ladybugs for an hour. Then put a teaspoon of ladybugs on moistened foliage. Catch spiders without harming them and place in your plants, they love the moisture. If you dont want to bother with the lady bugs or spiders buy some of the yellow sticky traps, these are effective in enclosed areas and patios. Be sure to keep your garden clean and free of ants.
• Control slugs and snails. One way is to go out at night with rubber gloves, a plastic bag and a flash light. Pick them, bag them, and get rid of them. You can step on them and squash them, or you can use snail bait. Be careful if you have pets, you do not want them to eat it.
• Control rose pest and diseases. It is almost impossible to do this without using chemicals. Be sure to spray your roses early in the morning or late in the evening when there is no wind. You also dont want to spray certain chemicals during hot sunny days. It can burn your plants.

Lawns

It is time to reset the cutting height of your lawn mower. Cool season grass like Marathon should be allowed to grow longer in summer. Set the blade to 2-3 and be sure the blade is sharp. Rule of thumb: Never cut off more than one third of your lawns height at one time.

Living in Newport Beach most of us don't mow our lawns but you may want to ask your gardener if he is aware of these tips. Chances are he is not!!!

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