WINTER EFFECTS ON GARDEN

Cold Winter Effects

You may have noticed a few of your marginal plants are looking brown and possibly dead. Gardeners like to push the boundaries of what is hardy in our planting zone, to get fresh and interesting plant material. This winter temperatures dropped as low as -15C leaving a few brown-leaved plants. What you can do:

• Gently scrape bark off one stem, if you see green inner layers the plant is still alive.

• Never cut back winter damaged plants until you see new growth.

• Once new growth appears, cut back hard to stimulate strong recovery.

Hebe microphylla have mostly died in our climate. Plant large leaf Hebe macrophylla instead, they survive cold weather much better.

Ceanothus (California lilac) has suffered loss of leaves and branches but may come back. Fertilize with 14-14-14 formula for evergreens and wait for new growth.

Colour that Lasts with Summer Bulbs

Dahlias are a treat for any garden. Plentiful, colourful blooms liven up any sunny garden bed. Most summer bulbs love warm soil and the heat of summer. In Vancouver, you can plant in spring for blooms by summer. Dahlias, Canna Lilies and Gladiolus like a spot in full sun with moist but well drained soil. Calla Lilies can be planted in part shade or full sun. Stake taller plants as they grow. In early autumn, remember to dig out the bulbs after all the foliage has receded. Store them in a cool, dry place away from car fumes. Let them lay dormant all winter and repeat next spring.

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