Gardener's Almanac Monthly Gardening Checklist

January Tips & Checklist

• Peruse garden/seed catalogues to help determine new and exciting vegetable varieties to try in the garden.
• Plan out and design the vegetable garden--try to implement crop rotation of vegetable families to reduce disease buildup.
• Consider growing herbs and/or microgreens indoors to add fresh greens to your diet.
• Use deicing compounds sparingly to avoid salt damage to landscape plants.
• If storing bulbs, check the bulb's condition to ensure they are firm, removing any soft or rotten bulbs.
• Perform routine maintenance on lawn mowers and other small engine garden equipment.
• Sign up to become a member of the USU sponsored Botanical Gardens and receive discounts on classes and workshops along with other special benefits.

March Tips & Checklist

• Pests and Problems:Consider taking soil samples to determine fertilizer needs.
• Plant seeds of cool season vegetables (peas, lettuce, radishes...) as soon as garden soil is workable.
• Consider planting peas in the garden every 2-3 weeks (until early May) to extend the harvest.
• If it didn't happen in the fall, add organic matter to the vegetable garden to help build and amend the soil.
• Avoid compacted soil by avoiding tilling wet or saturated garden soil.
• Consider backyard composting or vermiculture (composting with worms).
• If storing bulbs, check the bulb's condition to ensure they are firm, removing any soft or rotten bulbs.
• If locally available, plant bare root trees and shrubs, keeping the exposed roots moist until planted.
• Remove protective trunk wrap and burlap from trees in the spring after snow has melted.
• Fertilize spring flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodil, fritillaria and crocus.
• Plant cold hardy pansies and primrose.
• Subscribe to the Utah Pests IPM Advisories for timely tips on controlling pests in your yard and garden.
• Prune berries and fruit trees such as apples, pears, peaches, cherries, plums and apricots.
• Attend a USU Extension sponsored pruning demonstration near you.
• Apply Horticulture oils at bud break (delayed dormant) in fruit trees to control overwintering insect pests.
• Apply pre-emergent herbicides in late March – mid April to control annual weeds in your lawn (crabgrass, spurge…).
• Sharpen mower blades and prepare for the season. Set mower height to mow 2 1/2 to 3 inches tall, mow at this height entire summer.
• Consider including a native fruiting species in the landscape, including chokecherry, elderberry, serviceberry or currant.

Pests and Problems:

• Download ‘Utah Home Orchard Pest Management Guide’.
• Damping off is a fungal disease that affects new seedlings.
• Aspen leaf spot may be prevalent during cool, wet springs. Control measures should occur at bud break.
• Anthracnose may be prevalent during cool, wet springs. Control measures should occur at bud break.
• Control rust mites in apple and pear trees after leaves have emerged and expanded by 1/2 inch.
• For pears, apply dormant oil when leaf buds swell. This smothers eggs of the Pear psylla that are laid on buds by overwintering adults.

April Tips & Checklist

• Plant seeds of cool season vegetables (peas, lettuce, spinach and radishes...) as soon as garden soil is workable.
• Check out over 55 different vegetable / herb fact sheets produced by USU Extension.
• Consider planting peas in the garden every 2-3 weeks (until early May) to extend the harvest.
• How to plant and harvest asparagus.
• How to plant and harvest rhubarb.
• Mechanically control young garden weeds by hoeing or hand pulling.
• Protect fruit blossoms and tender garden plants from late critical freezing temperatures.
• If storing bulbs, check the bulb's condition to ensure they are firm, removing any soft or rotten bulbs.
• If locally available, plant bare root trees and shrubs, keeping the exposed roots moist until planted.
• Wait to prune roses until after buds begin to swell to avoid late frosts damaging new growth.
• Prune spring flowering shrubs (those that bloom before June) after they have bloomed to encourage new flower buds for next season.
• Divide crowded, fall-blooming perennials.
• Divide cool season ornamental grasses when new growth begins to emerge.
• Apply chelated iron (FeEDDHA) to plants with prior problems with Iron Chlorosis.
• Use organic (wood chips or bark) mulches to retain soil moisture around shrubs and trees.
• Plant a tree to Celebrate National Arbor Day. The USU Tree Browser offers an interactive list of tree species adapted to the Intermountain West.
• Apply pre-emergent herbicides in late March – mid April to control annual weeds in your lawn (crabgrass, spurge…).
• Information on planting a lawn.
• In compacted sites, aerate with hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing (April – June).
• Check sprinkler systems for leaks, clean filters, fix and align heads.

Pests and Problems:

• Download ‘Utah Home Orchard Pest Management Guide’.
• Learn about common problems in: apples, peaches and nectarines, cherries, pears, plums or apricots.
• Reduce chemical use to promote beneficial insects in your landscape.
• Treat for Coryneum blight in stone fruits (cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and plums) at shuck split (approximately 10 days after flower petals drop).
• Treat for powdery mildew on apples beginning when leaves are emerging (at 1/2 inch green) until June.
• Monitor wet weather during bloom in apples, pears and hawthorns to determine whether to treat for Fire blight.
• Treat fruit trees for cat facing insects (stink bugs…) to prevent dimples and pucker marks in fruit trees.
• Preventative control for Peach twig borer in peaches, nectarines and apricots helps reduce twig and fruit damage later in the season.
• Control spring flying bark beetles in pine trees and other conifers.
• Protect birch trees previously infested by the Bronze birch borer by applying a systemic pesticides.
• Watch for Cutworm damage in turfgrass and new vegetable starts.

May Tips & Checklist

• Plant warm season vegetables and annual flowers once the threat of the last frost has passed. See average first and last frost dates.
• By planting tomatoes deeper, they are able to form more roots along the stem creating a more vigorous plant.
• Consider planting sweet corn in the garden every other week (until early July) to extend the harvest.
• Consider the various types of fertilizers, traditional fertilizer options, and organic fertilizers.
• Thin out overcrowded seedlings using a pair of scissors, trying to avoid disturbing the young roots.
• Protect fruit blossoms and tender garden plants from late freezing temperatures. See critical temperatures fo frost damage in fruit.
• Plant summer blooming bulbs including gladiola, begonia, dahlia and canna.
• Divide warm season ornamental grasses when new growth begins to emerge.
• Information about landscape weeds.
• Allow the foliage of spring blooming bulbs (tulips, daffodils and crocus) to die down before cutting the leaves off.
• Information on planting a lawn.
• Turfgrass needs minimal irrigation each week. See irrigation needs in your area.
• In compacted sites, aerate with hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing (April – June).
• Control broadleaf weeds in the lawn when temperatures are between 60-80°F. Follow the label and stop use of broadleaf herbicides once the temperature is above 85°F.
• Apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer to provide a long lasting effect throughout the summer months.

Pests and Problems:

• Monitor newly planted vegetables for Cutworm and flea beetle damage.
• Monitor for Cankerworm damage on scrub oak and Box elder trees along the foothills.
• Monitor for aphids on lush new spring growth on a variety of plants. Treat for aphids by using “softer” solutions such as spraying them with a hard stream of water or by using an insecticidal soap.
• Monitor for slugs and snails. These pests thrive in moist, cool areas of the garden and landscape feeding on a variety of plant hosts.
• Protect Ash trees from the Lilac / ash borer around the first of May.
• Control Codling moth in apples and pears to reduce wormy fruit. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Treat for powdery mildew on apples beginning when leaves are emerging (at 1/2 inch green) until June.
• Watch for insect pests in raspberries from mid-May thru early June.
• Watch for Cutworm damage in turfgrass and new vegetable starts.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects. In areas previously damaged, consider a preventative (systemic) insecticide.

June Tips & Checklist

• Harvesting of asparagus spears should stop in early June to allow the fronds to form for the rest of the growing season.
• Prune tomatoes to open the canopy of the plant.
• Consider drip irrigation in the garden to conserve water.
• Consider planting sweet corn in the garden every other week (until early July) to extend the harvest.
• Prune spring flowering shrubs (those that bloom before June) after they have bloomed to encourage new flower buds for next season.
• Deadhead (cut off) spent blossoms of perennial and annual flowers.
• Thin the fruit of apples, peaches, apricots to approximately 1 fruit every 5-6 inches.
• Apply a second application of pre-emergent herbicides in late May - early June to control annual weeds in the lawn (crabgrass, spurge…).
• Turfgrass only needs 1-1 ½ inches of irrigation per week. See irrigation needs in your area.

Pests and Problems:

• Monitor vegetables and herbs for earwig damage.
• Protect ash trees with a registered chemical to prevent Lilac / ash borer damage.
• Control Codling moth in apples and pears to reduce wormy fruit. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Treat for powdery mildew on apples beginning when leaves are emerging (at 1/2 inch green) until June.
• Watch for insect pests in raspberries from mid-May thru early June. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Control the Western cherry fruit fly when fruit changes color from straw color to pink to avoid maggots in cherries.
• Control the Peach twig borer in peaches, nectarines, and apricot trees. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects. In areas previously damaged, consider a preventative (systemic) insecticide.

July Tips & Checklist

• Start enjoying the tomato harvest.
• Side dress (fertilize) potatoes in the garden with nitrogen in early July.
• Harvest summer squash and zucchini when they are still small and tender.
• Deep water established trees and shrubs about once per month during the heat of summer.
• Deadhead (cut off) spent blossoms of perennial and annual flowers.
• Divide crowded iris or daylilies once they have finished blooming.
• Visit alpine areas for wildflower displays.
• Remove water sprouts (vertical shoots in the canopy) of fruit trees to discourage regrowth and reduce shading.
• Renovate perennial strawberry beds by tearing out old crowns (mother plants) and applying fertilizer to stimulate new runners.
• Turfgrass only needs 1 ½-2 inches of irrigation per week. See irrigation needs in your area.

Pests and Problems:

• Check under leaves of pumpkins, melons, and squash plants for squash bugs.
• Watch for Mosaic virus in vine crops (such as cucumbers and watermelons), removing infected plants to reduce their spreading.
• Watch for holes in the leaves of petunias, necotiana, geraniums and other annual flowers from Tobacco budworm feeding.
• Protect black locust trees (not honey locust) with a registered chemical to prevent Locust borer damage.
• Control Codling moth in apples and pears to reduce wormy fruit. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Control for Walnut husk fly in Walnuts, peaches and apricots historically is done on August 1st and 15th.
• Learn how to identify a Hobo spider.
• Controlling European Paper wasp with traps is helpful this time of year.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.

August Tips & Checklist

• Consider planting cover crops to provide "green manure" to the garden.
• Collect and store seeds from your garden.
• Learn about how and when to harvest watermelon and cantaloupe.
• Harvest potatoes as soon as tubers begin forming.
• Harvest garlic and onions once the tops have dried down. Allow them to cure (dry) for 2-3 weeks before storing.
• Store potatoes, garlic and onions in a cool/dry location (32-40°F) away from apples.
• Plant trees and shrubs as the weather becomes cooler.
• Go hiking in the hills to enjoy autumn colors.
• Divide crowded, spring-blooming perennials.
• Consider composting fall leaves.
• Check pears for ripeness once the fruit twists off the tree easily and seeds are dark colored, and allow them to finish ripening off the tree.
• Apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer early in September to provide long-lasting results throughout the fall months.
• Remember that as temperatures cool, turfgrass requires minimal irrigation each week. See irrigation needs in your area.
• Plant new lawns or repair insect/diseased areas with grass seed, allowing 4-6 weeks for establishment before heavy frosts.
• Aerate compacted sites with a hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing (September - October).

Pests and Problems:

• Control raspberry crown borer using a root drench during late summer or early fall.
• Learn about what causes Bitter pit and other problems in apples.
• Control rust mites in apple and pear trees after harvest fruit and before leaf drop.
• Watch for boxelder bugs congregating on sunny surfaces during the fall months
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.
• Subscribe to the Utah Pests IPM Advisories for timely tips on controlling pests in your yard and garden.

September Tips & Checklist

• Deadhead (cut off) spent blossoms of perennial and annual flowers.
• Deep water established trees and shrubs about once per month during the heat of summer.
• Turfgrass only needs 1 ½-2 inches of irrigation per week. See irrigation needs in your area.

Pests and Problems:

• If tomatoes are not producing, one common reason could be due to hot weather (95°F and above) which causes flower abortion.
• Blossom end rot (black sunken areas on the end of tomatoes) is common and is caused by uneven watering.
• Check under leaves of pumpkins, melons, and squash plants for squash bugs.
• Treat for Corn ear worm when the corn’s silk is approximately ½ long.
• Spider mites prefer dry, hot weather and affect many plants. Treat for Spider mites by using “softer” solutions such as spraying them with a hard stream of water or by using an insecticidal soap.
• Spider mites can be identified by shaking leaves over a white piece of paper. If the small specs move…mites.
• Control Codling moth in apples and pears to reduce wormy fruit. For specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Historically, control of the Greater Peach Tree borer in peaches, nectarines and apricots occurs the first of July. However, for specific timing see our Utah Pests Advisories.
• Submit a sample to the Utah Plant Pest Diagnostic Lab (UPPDL).
• Watch for symptoms of turfgrass diseases.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.

October Tips & Checklist

• Learn about average first and last frost dates around the state.
• Consider adding a smaller structure such as a low tunnel or a larger high tunnel to extend your growing season. Try looking at different construction and modification information
• Learn how and when to harvest winter squash. Store winter squash in a cool, (50-55°F) dry location.
• Plant garlic cloves from mid-October through early November.
• Refer to this list of fall cleanup chores and good landscape practices to get your yard ready for winter. 
• Remove vegetable plants from the garden once harvest is complete to reduce overwintering sites for insect pests.
• Protect tomatoes from early frost by covering the plants with a blanket or tarp.
• Place mulch over carrots, beets and parsnips to prevent the ground around them from freezing.
• Rototill leaves, compost and/or manure into the vegetable garden to enhance the soil microbe activity.
• Prune roses by heading back excessively long canes to prevent damage from heavy snow loads. 
• Cut back ornamental grasses in snow prone areas once the foliage has dried down, otherwise leave them until spring and enjoy the vertical accent during winter.
• Plant spring blooming bulbs through early November.
• Plant trees and shrubs in the fall to enhance root establishment.
• Dig tender perennials such as gladiolas, dahlias, begonias and canna lilies after the foliage has died down and store them in a cool, (45-50 °F) dry location.
• Protect trunks of young trees from winter cracking by wrapping them with a white reflective tree wrap.
• Dig and remove annual flower plantings.
• Plant cold-hardy annuals, including pansies, primrose, kale, and ornamental cabbage.
• Prune raspberry canes to the ground after they have fruited.
• Control tough perennial weeds such as field bindweed (a.k.a. morning glory). Refer to this list of weed control options.
• Mow grass to a height of 1-to-1½ inches at the end of the season to minimize disease problems.
• Apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer after the last mowing (late October to early November) for early greening next spring.

Pests and Problems:

• Send diseased vegetable plants and leaves to the local landfill.
• Use burlap or other soft materials to wrap evergreens to prevent snow breakage.
• Treat stone fruits (cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and plums) for coryneum blight at 50% leaf drop.
• Clean up and discard all fallen fruit to reduce overwintering sites for disease and insect pests.

November Tips & Checklist

• If natural precipitation is sparse and ground is not frozen, water evergreen trees and shrubs to ensure they are well hydrated heading into winter.
• Blow out irrigation systems.
• Winterize lawn mowers and rototillers by draining the gas or adding a fuel stabilizer. Be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations.
• Clean and sharpen dirty garden tools and treat them with old oil or other rust-inhibiting products.
• Disconnect hoses from water spouts to avoid freezing damage.
• If you haven’t mowed your grass for the final time, cut it to a height of 1-to-1½ inches to minimize disease problems.
• Apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer after the last mowing for early greening next spring. 
• For a complete list of tips for putting the yard and garden to bed, click here. 

December Tips & Checklist

• Use deicing compounds sparingly to avoid salt damage to landscape plants.
• If natural precipitation is sparse and ground is not frozen, water evergreen trees and shrubs to ensure they are well hydrated heading into winter.
• Learn more information on poinsettias.
• Try your hand at forcing amaryllis to bloom indoors for the holidays.
• Information on Christmas tree selection and care.
• Shop for your gardener, great holiday gifts include: books, pruners, gift certificate, gloves, a living wreath, pottery, yard ornaments.
• Sign up to become a member of the USU sponsored Botanical Gardens and receive discounts on classes and workshops along with other special benefits.