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: Waxing Half begins on Tuesday, July 21
- Saturday-Sunday: Moon in the sign of Libra - Plant seasonal color
- Zinnias are an excellent choice for adding vibrant color to your summer garden, especially if you’re dealing with deer as a problem. They’re incredibly resilient, tolerating the heat and being free from pests. Additionally, they serve as a lovely contrast to perennials that have finished blooming.
Later in the Week
- Tuesday-Wednesday; Moon in the sign of Scorpio - Good around planting days
- When planting in warm temperatures, it’s best to do so in the early morning or early evening. This is when the heat of the day has subsided. Additionally, ensure each plant is thoroughly watered in its original container before planting. Ideally, this should be done while digging the planting hole.
Other Things To-do
- To prevent fertilizer burn during the summer, water your plants the day before or at least four hours before and immediately afterward.
- Perennials like Mexican Evening Primrose, Penstemon, and Lavender should be cut back after they finish blooming. To add color to these areas, you can plant Vinca Rosea, Portulaca, Salvia, and other plants.
- As fruits like apples, peaches, nectarines, and others mature, support the bending branches with 2x4s. Place the supports under the branches where they start to bend. Additionally, removing the ripening fruits at the end of the branches will reduce the weight and help prevent the limbs from breaking.