GARDEN FANATIC: Now is a good time to plant in Laguna

“Avoid being impatient. Remember, time brings roses.”

When it isn’t raining, February is one of the best months for planting. The soil is naturally moist, and temperatures are generally moderate in Laguna.

Such conditions are ideal for root growth, ensuring a good start for trees, shrubs and lawns. Rose pruning should also be completed this month.

Once done, immediately begin a fertilization program.

Your recent questions for the Plant Man included:

Q. What flowers look good now?

A. Delphinium, English primrose, foxglove, Iceland poppy, pansy, snapdragon, stock and viola, top the Plant Man’s garden color list for February.

Q. Is it safe to prune roses if the rose bush is still leafy and still producing flowers?

A. I would wait until the “flush” of flowers ends and then prune.

Remember, you have until the end of February to prune your roses in Laguna.

Q. Do I have to use a special mix when I plant my azaleas?

A. Azaleas prefer an acid soil, whether growing in the ground or in pots. I recommend that you plant azaleas in 9 parts azalea mix to 1 part garden soil or potting soil.

Mulch plants frequently during the year with azalea mix or peat moss.

Q. When I re-planted my amaryllis this fall, all I got was leaves. Could you please tell me what I’m doing wrong.

A. After the plant flowers, it is important to keep it watered and fed so the bulb can store energy for the following year’s bloom. If you forgot to do so, that might explain why you were rewarded with only leaves. Although a very sturdy bulb, amaryllis have tender roots and must be handled carefully.

You may have inadvertently disturbed the roots. If so, it may not bloom again for several years.

Q. When is the best time to prune olive trees, especially if you want to reduce fruit?

A. Olives should be pruned when the small, white flowers appear in late spring/early summer.

This will help to reduce or eliminate the fruit.

Although rain often delays garden projects, it certainly is good for the quality of my life. Rain’s pitter-patter ensures a good’s night sleep.

Laguna appears fresh and clean the morning after a gentle rain and the view is limitless from our home.

See you next time.

 STEVE KAWARATANI is happily married to award winning writer Catharine Cooper and has four dogs. He can be reached at (949) 497-8168, or e-mail to [email protected].