Standard lilacs benefit from yearly pruning, but dwarf lilacs like Miss Kim Manchurian or Paliban Meyer rarely need pruning. Deadheading old flower clusters at their base is about all the pruning they need.

Genovese, Italian Pesto and Profuma di Genova are probably the best varieties of basil to grow for making pesto. They are vigorous growers and very aromatic. Their flavor is a balance of chemical compounds that taste like citrus oil, licorice, cinnamon and mint. Grow basil in full sun, water, fertilize and prune regularly. For the best tasting leaves, don’t let the plants flower.

Mid- to late June is an excellent time to take softwood cuttings of shrubs to start new plants. Spirea, lilac and viburnum are some shrubs that can be propagated this way.

Three tips for designing a small garden: 1. Keep it simple. 2. Limit your color and texture palettes. 3. Use lower growing plants to create an expansive view; keep the larger shrubs and trees at the garden edge or even outside the garden.

Disposable plastic knifes—either clear or white—make good plant labels for gardens. Use a permanent marker or a “paint” pen. Write your information on both sides of the handle and blade. Stick the knife halfway into the ground. If the information wears off the top half, the bottom half (in the ground) will still be readable.

The authors have received training through Colorado State University Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener program and is a Master Gardener volunteer for Larimer County.

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

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This page updated:  June 22, 2007