Landscape
               • Mow lawns frequently enough that you don't remove more than one-third the total grass blade at each mowing.

        • Leave grass clippings on the lawn to reduce the need for fertilizer.

        • Plant hardy woody vines, such as clematis, wisteria or “Gold Flame” honeysuckle, this month.

        • Plant ground covers.

        • Scout for scale crawlers on euonymus, mugho pine and redtwig dogwood. Treat with insecticidal soap when the crawlers become active.
       

Flowers
               • Fertilize azaleas and rhododendrons after they have finished blooming with an acid-forming fertilizer.

        • Fertilize most other shrubs, perennials and roses. Roses, especially, should be fertilized in anticipation of next month's flower display.

        • Remove dead and weak canes from climbing roses after they have put out new leaves.

        • Remove old foliage from bearded iris to control iris borers, whose eggs winter on the foliage.

        • Nick the seeds of morning glory with a small file to speed germination.

        • Dig and divide small bulbs, such as winter aconites and snowdrops, after the foliage has started to die back.
       

Patio garden
               • Plant container vegetables. Salad vegetables and tomatoes are favorite selections. Choose small tomato varieties such as “Patio” or “Basket King.”
       

Weather tip
               It is usually safe to plant frost-tender flowers and vegetables after May 15. Nevertheless, be prepared to cover tender plants if frost is predicted.
       

        Sue Trusty, director of education at the Civic Garden Center of Greater Cincinnati, (513) 221-0981.

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