With the beautiful outdoor weather, locals with green thumbs are likely envisioning their next great gardening project. However, you must always work with Mother Nature and her changing seasons. When it comes to gardening, timing can be everything! Knowing your first and last frost dates can make all the difference if you want to have the most successful crops and blooms. Things are already heating up here in Bloomington, with the season’s last frost coming at the end of April. But there is still a short window of time from now until early June to get some summer plants in before the fall season arrives. HOW TO CRAFT THE PERFECT PLANTING TIMELINE Seize the Summer Growing Season
Paw-some Adventures
GEAR UP YOUR PUP FOR A HIKING ADVENTURE
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. FOOD AND WATER One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks. FIRST-AID KIT Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse. BOOTS While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. WASTE BAGS Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. EMERGENCY HARNESS Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
FLOWERS The best time of year to grow flowers depends on the variety. Annuals, like marigolds, must be planted yearly, and perennial flowers, like Coral Bells, only need to be planted once or until the previous flower has lived its full life and needs replacement. You should plant both cool and warm-season annuals in the spring, but warm-season annuals should come a little later, around mid-May, in case any late frosts chill the ground. During the fall, you can plant a few flower options, especially perennials like irises. SHRUBS Shrubs are perennial plants that will continue to grow after you plant them. The best time to plant new shrubs is in the fall. Though these plants are hardy and can thrive in other seasons, the fall weather is cool enough that there will be no above-ground growth and all the plant’s energy can go into establishing solid roots. Fall is also a wetter season in Indiana, which will be helpful for this type of plant. If fall doesn’t fit your plans, early spring is the next best bet for shrubs. TREES The easiest way to plant trees is by transplanting one that has already reached its early stages of growth. A tree is vulnerable at this point without an established root system, so it’s crucial to plant it at the right time for the best outcome. Early spring is best so you beat out the frost of fall and the heat of the summer. There are many options for plants to fill your entire year with gardening projects; it’s just a matter of knowing what will thrive best in the season. If you need advice or help with your planting schedule, contact us at Anthony’s Lawn Care because we have the timing down to a science.
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