In the Garden

Spring planting time is well underway, but it is important to wait until the soil is ready for your plants. Several factors affect the planting time for different plants.

Temperature is a major factor in deciding when to plant. While trees, shrubs and perennials hardy to this zone will tolerate cool soils, tender plants, including vegetable starts and annual flowers, need for the soil to be warmer to thrive. Planted when the soil is too cool, the plants will, at best, sit there and not develop until the soil warms. On the other hand, some plants will develop problems, including root rot. The same is true of seeds. Some need warmth for germination, and planted too soon may result in rotting seeds. It is best to wait until the soil is warm enough for healthy growth.