Garden Chores for May: Mayday Gardening Activities
As the warm weather rolls in, it's time to prepare your lilies, seedlings, and houseplants for their transition from indoor comfort to the outdoor garden. Here are some expert guidelines to help ensure a smooth and healthy transition for your plants.
### Gradual Acclimatization (Hardening Off) To avoid shock, gradually move your plants outdoors over 1-2 weeks. Start with a few hours in a shaded, sheltered spot, then slowly increase their time outdoors and exposure to sunlight. This process helps prevent sunburn and stress caused by sudden changes in light, temperature, and wind.
### Light Exposure and Shade Delicate plants like lilies and young seedlings should initially be placed in partial shade or filtered sunlight, avoiding harsh direct sun during the hottest hours. Use shade cloths or green garden nets to protect sensitive plants until they adapt to outdoor conditions.
### Watering and Humidity Water deeply early in the morning or late evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. Mulch around outdoor plants to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. For seedlings and houseplants used to indoor humidity, mist leaves or use pebble trays to maintain moisture during the transition. Avoid overwatering seedlings as soggy soil can cause rot; keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
### Soil and Fertilization Ensure well-drained soil for outdoor planting to prevent waterlogging, which can harm lilies and seedlings. Incorporate organic matter to improve soil fertility and structure. Use diluted liquid fertilizers every 2-3 weeks to support growth after the transition without overfeeding and risking root burn.
### Pest Management Inspect plants regularly for pests common in warmer weather like aphids and mealybugs. Treat infestations promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap to protect vulnerable plants during this period.
### Additional Tips for Houseplants For houseplants moving outdoors, avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. If away, consider watering aids such as wicking systems or watering globes to keep plants hydrated.
By following these steps, you can ensure a successful transition for your lilies, seedlings, and houseplants from indoor comfort to thriving in the summer garden. Bamboo stakes can also serve as a deterrent for pets from gamboling over the lily patch. Happy gardening!
References: [1] The Spruce, (2021) Transitioning Houseplants to Outdoor Containers: A Step-by-Step Guide. [Online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/transition-houseplants-to-outdoor-containers-1807933
[2] Gardening Know How, (2021) Hardening Off Seedlings: How to Gradually Introduce Seedlings to Outdoor Conditions. [Online] Available at: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/vegetables/hardening-off-seedlings.htm
[3] The Gardener's Network, (2021) How to Hardening Off Seedlings: A Comprehensive Guide. [Online] Available at: https://www.thegardenersnetwork.com/how-to-harden-off-seedlings/
[4] The Balance Everyday, (2021) How to Care for Your Houseplants Outside in Summer. [Online] Available at: https://www.thebalanceeveryday.com/how-to-care-for-your-houseplants-outside-in-summer-2887538
By gradually hardening off your lilies and seedlings over 1-2 weeks, you can minimize shock for a smooth transition from indoor comfort to the outdoor home-and-garden. Initially, position delicate plants in filtered sunlight or partial shade to protect them from harsh direct sunlight and potential sunburn. In the process of acclimatization, ensure they receive increased hours of sunlight and stronger exposure to wind.
