Knecht’s

At the nursery this time of year, the question most asked is “Can I plant right now?”.  The April 12th article in the Northfield News shares Leif’s thoughts….. 

As winter ever so slowly transitions to spring, many people think about planting trees.  Spring has been a traditional tree planting time, and remains an excellent period for installing the trees that will make your property more beautiful with each passing year.

 The biggest advantage of planting at the beginning of the season is that your new trees will have an entire growing season to grow new roots and become established for more vigorous growth in subsequent years.  You can’t get strong growth without first growing a large network of new roots, and each additional week the tree has during the season to grow new roots means the tree is better prepared for the next year and the year after.

 Another advantage of early season planting is the dormant condition of the trees, and the cool temperatures.  Dormant trees can wake up slowly once they have been planted which reduces stress.  Cool temperatures mean less demand for moisture on a relatively small root system.  By the time hotter temperatures arrive, a tree planted early in the season has already grown some new roots, and can more easily draw moisture and nutrition from the soil. (more…)

Leif’s article in the April 5th - Northfield News  discusses things to do when it’s not quite ready yet to make a full assault into the springtime garden work…… 

Dare we hope that the long-awaited Spring of 2008 is now unfolding?  Most of the folks I’ve run into lately are feeling as if it can’t come soon enough.  Despite our yearning to get outdoors and DO something, patience may be advisable for most yard and garden activities.

 Soil compaction is one of the biggest enemies of landscape plants, and it is well documented that wet soil compacts easily.  Even foot traffic can cause some co0mpaction, so try to stay off wet ground until it thaws and drains enough to firm up.

 One early season activity that can be done without too much danger is pruning trees and shrubs.  It’s too early to dig or rake, but trees and shrubs are pretty much dormant and can be safely pruned.

 Another good activity on a nice day before the ground firms up is planning upgrades and additions to the landscape.  When the sun is warm and the wind light, put a comfortable chair in different parts of your landscape and sit quietly.  Allow the hub-bub of daily life to melt away and give yourself permission to imagine the possibilities for a new look in that particular area of the landscape.  Jot down your ideas even if they don’t seem inspired, and move the chair to another part of the yard.  Continue the process until you’ve quietly visited most or all of your landscape.   Put the notes away and look at them a few days later.  The passage of even this short amount of time will give you another perspective on your initial ideas.  In the end, suit yourself.  It’s your landscape, and part of your castle.  Trust yourself and make your yard the kind of place that brings you comfort, joy, renewal and peace. (more…)