Q: When can I safely plant or transplant roses?

A: In our climate, April is an excellent time for planting bare root roses or for transplanting mature roses. The best results can be achieved by following a few key recommendations. Choose your plants from a reputable nursery and be sure to keep the roots moist until you are ready to plant. Select a site that has well-drained soil, in a location that will provide full sun and good air circulation, and avoid competition with other plants for water and nutrients. Before planting, prune damaged or broken roots and after planting prune the canes ¼-inch above a bud, leaving 6 to 8 inches of cane. Protect the canes from frost damage and drying, by covering the entire plant with loamy, moist soil. When the danger of frost has passed, carefully remove the soil covering by gently washing away with a garden hose. Complete details may be found in Fact Sheet #7.404, “Selecting and Planting Roses”.

Q: Last spring, as my lawn began to green-up, I discovered spots of unhealthy turf in the south and west-facing areas of my lawn that never really recovered. What might have caused the damage, and how can I prevent it from happening this year?

A: The turf damage you observed may have been caused by mites. Several species of spider mites are known to cause such damage, most often in south and west-facing turf areas. Unfortunately, the presence of mites and the full extent of damage are not evident until the surrounding turf turns green, exposing straw-colored and irregular-shaped patches. Depending on the length and severity of infestation, damage may range from minor thinning to complete killing of the turfgrass. Early spring watering of suspected mite “hangouts” is the most effective way to prevent extensive turf damage. In the absence of spring snow or rainfall, supplemental watering on south and west-facing areas will help prevent mite damage and help your landscaping recover from our dry winter. For more information, contact your county Cooperative Extension Office and ask to speak to a Master Gardener.

Q: I‘d like to add a tree to my landscaping. When is the best time to do this?

A: Early spring is an excellent time to plant or transplant trees and shrubs. In fact, Arbor Day in Colorado falls on the third Friday in April. When selecting and planting trees, it’s important to remember that they represent a long-term investment in your landscaping. A little extra time and care at planting time can help ensure a healthy tree that adds value to your home. Selecting the right tree for your location, preparing the soil properly and following good planting practices are all critical factors in getting your new tree off to a good start. To help you achieve the best results, tree selection and planting Fact Sheets authored by experts from Colorado State University are available from your county Cooperative Extension Office or online at http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/garden/pubgard.html

Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.

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This page updated:  May 26, 2006