Harden off. Even plants that can tolerate some cold and frost need about a week to be acclimated to our intense sun, cold nights, and strong winds. Harden off plants by leaving them outdoors in a sheltered location an increasing number of hours a day for several days and then overnight in a sheltered location for a few times before planting them in the ground.
Core aeration is removing two- to three-inch plugs of grass and soil and depositing them on the lawn. Going over the lawn twice with the aeration machine so that the holes are two inches apart is a good idea. Aeration opens the soil to more oxygen and water and prevents thatch build up and diseases. See May tips for more about aeration.
Floating row cover is a white, woven synthetic fabric that allows sunshine and moisture to come through, while keeping out insects. It is especially useful in vegetable gardens. Lightly draped over plants or held above ground with purchased or homemade hoops, it protects seedlings and young plants from insect damage and harsh weather. Use clothes pins to attach row cover to tomato cages or trellises to protect the plants growing within.
For more information:
Home Grown Transplants Require TLC
Tools to Extend the Growing Season
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