Flowers/vegetables

        • Enlist the aid of predatory insects by planting native flowering plants such as monarda (bee balm), achillea (yarrow), asclepias (butterfly weed) and Queen Anne's lace.

        • To control height, pinch back phlox, monarda, tradescantia and physostegia.

        • Once warm weather is assured, prune tender perennials such as mums.

        • To speed the establishment of hosta that are newly planted or planted last year, clip back the blossom stalk, redirecting the plant's energy to root development instead of to bloom production.

Landscaping

        • When planting clematis, locate the plant where it will receive several hours of sunlight each day during the growing season. Clematis prefers a soil pH that is neutral to slightly alkaline — 7.0-8.0. They grow best if their roots are cooled by other plants growing at their base.

        • When planting trees, keep in mind how large the plant will be at maturity. Leave enough space between the plant and buildings for the tree to develop roots without damaging foundations and for the canopy to grow without interfering with utility wires.

        • Unsure about the location of underground utilities? Before digging, call (800) 362-2764. Allow about a week for a crew to come and mark the underground phone lines, sewer lines, etc.

        • Eastern tent caterpillars are on the move. Their soft bodies will dry up if sprayed with an insecticidal soap, especially if it's mixed with alcohol. Nests found at the ends of branches can be opened with a long stick and birds will help take care of this pest.

Bulbs

        Cut back blossom stem on amaryllis to 3-4 inches once blooming is finished. Let the leaves gather nutrients to replenish the bulb until late summer.

        Contact the Civic Garden Center Hotline by e-mail: hotline@civicgardencenter.org, or phone, 221-8733.

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