Spring Gardening Tips

April and May are key months for gardening here in the Atlanta area. If you’re looking for tips on how to plant “frost-tender” crops or wondering how to prune your favorite shrubs, I’ve compiled a few tips from local expert Walter Reeves and the UGA Horticulture Department. 

Summer Vegetables – Now is the time to plant warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, squash, beans, peas, cantaloupes, corn, cucumbers, eggplants, and okra. 

Easter Lilies: Did you know you can plant your Easter Lilies? Simply remove their faded blooms and plant them outdoors to continue enjoying them after the holiday.

Flowering Shrubs – Prune your azaleas and rhododendrons after they have finished blooming to keep them healthy and promote new growth. Walter Reeve’s has an excellent tutorial found here.

Annuals – Brighten up your garden by planting annuals like petunias, marigolds, zinnias, celosia, and geraniums.

Mulch – Use mulch or pine straw in your garden beds to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from taking over. 

Water Wisely – The best time to water is between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. This prevents disease and allows grass to dry before nightfall the next day.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and productive garden in Atlanta. Happy gardening!