Gardening by the Moon Weekend To-Do
An idea as old as agriculture, based both folklore and superstition but there are scientific ideas to back it up.
Lunar Phase: 2nd Quarter begins on Monday, July 11- Saturday-Monday: Moon in the sign of Virgo/Libra - Plant flowering vines and seasonal color along with herbs. … Seasonal color is added to perennial areas that have finished blooming to extend the blooming season. Petunias, Marigolds, Zinnias, and others bloom all summer long and well into the fall.
Later in the Week
Wednesday-Thursday: Moon in the sign of Scorpio - Plant seasonal color and prune for growth- … Hedges are pruning often during the growing season to keep them compact and prevent bare spots from developing. Star Jasmine, Photinia, Privets, boxwood and more could be due for a hair cut.
Other Things To-do
- …Keep Camellias mulched and moist during hot, dry weather. A one to two inch layer of mulch will insulate the roots. This is a very crucial time as the plants are setting next season's flower buds. Irregular watering July through September will produce few or no flowers next year.
- ...And finally, paint the trunks of young apple and pear trees with white latex paint. The paint reflects the sun-rays preventing the bark from burning and blistering on hot summer days.