by Elizabeth
Anne Wuerslin
Colorado State University Extension Agent,
Horticulture
Larimer County
Q: I didn’t clean up my vegetable garden last fall; can I just turn under my old tomato plants into the soil?
A: This is not recommended, as many tomato diseases such as blight and wilt are soil-borne pathogens, which can be encouraged by recycling old plants into the soil. Composting may be an alternative if the temperature of the compost pile reaches 145 degrees or more. Crop rotation is a pathogen management tool where vine, tomato and some berry crops are not planted in the same bed for at least three years. This approach may be difficult when space is limited.
Q: When can I prune my clematis vine?
A: This depends on when your clematis vine blooms. If you have an early spring bloomer, prune soon after blooming. Mid- and late-season bloomers can be pruned now, especially the autumn blooming variety, which can be pruned to the base to eliminate old growth. When in doubt, check with your supplier.
Q: My ornamental grasses have provided winter interest, but now are brown and matted, what can I do?
A: Ornamental grasses are perennials, responding to similar care in the spring as other perennial plants in the garden. Cut down the old stems with good gloves and sharp shears, as the blades of grass may be quite sharp. Divide and cut away the straw-like center if the clump is too large. Add organic material around the grasses to encourage new growth.
Q: I hate to throw out my Easter lily plants; can they grow in Colorado?
A: Yes, save these beautiful flowering plants. Keep indoors and watered, and wait until the ground is warm and can be easily worked. You will not have lilies this season, but they will bloom next summer, after Easter has passed.
Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.
Return to Master Gardener Articles