TRANSPLANTING:
If you are considering
digging and moving a plant from
one spot to another in the landscape, this is the month to accomplish this job. Most
plants move best when they are fully dormant as a result of prolonged exposure to cold
temperatures. Small and young
plants are
the easiest to move successfully since there is less shock and they recover from root
loss rather
quickly. Remember to selectively remove some top growth to compensate for the
inevitable loss
of some of the roots. Once the plant is moved, water it thoroughly and apply a few
inches of
mulch over the root area.
PLANTING:
The ground doesn't freeze in
East Texas, and many things can be
planted at this
time of year. At the top of the list are fruit trees and vines. These plants are dug by
growers while
they are dormant and shipped bare-root. The quicker you make your selection and get
them in the
ground, the faster they will establish a root system, which means better growth in the
spring and
summer. Don't let them dry out! Roses and other dormant, deciduous flowering plants
are also
available this month.
Actually, most container-grown nursery stock can be planted during the winter, weather
permitting. You can also be preparing the soil now for new flower, rose or shrub beds
by mixing
in plenty of organic material like compost and fertilizer. This way the soil is ready for
immediate
planting when the plants arrive.
Start seeds indoors now for planting in late winter and early spring: broccoli, cabbage,
cauliflower, collards, kale, lettuce, parsley, petunias and begonias. Tomato, pepper and
eggplant
seed should be started in late January for transplanting in March. Late January is also
the time to
start transplants of marigolds, periwinkles and other summer flowers. Use a commercial
peat-light
soil mix in a clean flat. Place in a warm, bright spot. Cover the tray with a clear piece of
glass
or plastic or saran wrap until the seeds have sprouted. At that time, place in very bright
light to
keep the seedlings from stretching.
Plant asparagus roots as they become available at garden stores.
PRUNING:
January and February are the
months to accomplish pruning of fruit
trees. Annual
pruning keeps the harvest within reach, thins crowded branches, thus allowing more
light to
penetrate developing fruit, and stimulates new growth for next year's crop. Peaches,
plums and
apricots need this annual pruning.
The dormant season of winter is also the time to do any needed pruning of shade trees
to correct
major problems such as cleaning out dead wood, removing lower limbs and crowded
branches to
allow more light to reach the ground, and removing hazardous branches which threaten
property.
FERTILIZING:
Regularly fertilize pansies to keep them actively
growing.
Houseplants can be fertilized with reduced rates of water-soluble fertilizer this month.
Do not
over-water houseplants, and make sure that water does not sit in the saucer under the
pot after
watering.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Birds of all kinds appreciate a constant source of
seed, suet
and water
during the winter. You'll enjoy all the activity in your yard while providing a valuable
service for
our feathered friends. Just remember that once you start feeding, you should keep it up
through
the winter.
This is a good time to get your lawn and garden soil tested for its pH level. Soils which
are
strongly acid stunt plant growth and result in unproductive gardens. Liming lawns and
gardens
now allows time for lime to react and raise the soil pH before the growing season
arrives.
Compost piles should be turned at least once during the month. Leaves are abundant
and should
be shredded before adding to the pile. Add animal manure or clippings from winter rye
for a
source of nitrogen. The pile should be at least 3 cubic feet in volume to help hold in the
heat
generated by decomposition. Check the pile for moisture level. It should be neither too
wet or too
dry. Add water if it is dry; add more coarse, dry matter if it is too wet.
PROGRAMS
Check the East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Program Calendar for the The annual East Texas Spring Landscape and
Gardening Conference, held late January/early February every year at the Tyler
Rose Garden Center. Check the programs link or call the Smith
County Extension office (903) 590-5980.
Keith Hansen is Smith County Horticulturist with Texas Cooperative Extension. His web page is http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/county/smith. Educational programs of Texas Cooperative Extension are open to all individuals without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age or national origin.
