Jan.

Prune deciduous trees and shrubs. Treat trees with horticultural oils for pest control as needed.

Feb.

Sharpen mower blades.  Prune raspberry bushes.  Cut back ornamental grasses to a few inches above the ground.

Mar.

Aerate turf.  Be sure the ground isn’t frozen or too dry to ensure deep full cores.  Leave cores on the ground to break down naturally.

Apr.

Fertilizer turf areas with slow release fertilizer.  Water only as needed. 

May

Begin mowing turf, ideally maintaining a height of 3”.   Mowing too short makes turf more susceptible to insect and disease problems.  It's a great time to add a drip irrigation zone.

Jun.

Fertilizer turf areas with slow release fertilizer. Spray roses and prune lilacs, forsythia, rhododendrons, & azaleas after blooming.

July

Water according to the weather and apply a layer of mulch around plants and trees to retain moisture and save water.  Stake tomatoes if needed.

Aug.

Bring a soil sample to the U of I Extension office to determine garden or lawn nutrient needs.  Keep on top of weeds.

Sept.

De-thatch the lawns and fertilize.  De-thatching is recommended for fall to allow turf to recover over winter months and prepare for new spring growth. Fertilizer turf areas with slow release fertilizer.  Optimal time to add xeriscape to your yard.

Oct.

Blow out sprinklers / Disconnect Hoses. Only water lawns if outside temperature is above 40 degrees.

Nov.

Fertilize your lawn with slow release fertilizer.  Yard clean up - rake fallen leaves.

Dec.

Spread shoveled snow onto your lawn rather than paved areas.