Cooler temps add dynamic to flower gardens

In the Garden

Ralph Purkhiser, Purdue University Master Gardener

     The cooler-than-normal temperatures have made for an interesting spring in the garden.  Since we have not had any major storms with winds, hard rain or hail to destroy blossoms, the flowers have stayed around much longer than they usually do.  This has resulted in some strange juxtapositions.  I have daffodils sharing the garden with roses and herbaceous peonies are coming on while the last bluebells fade.  The hummingbirds continue to eat from thousands of columbine blooms as a half dozen weigelas provide a second course for their dinners.  My daily walks through the gardens have been feasts for the senses of sight and smell.  I cannot recall a year when the gardens have been more beautiful.

     The cool temperatures may have delayed the hum of cicadas.  The 17-year swarm will arrive this spring, but the cool weather has had an effect.  I have found some larvae when digging planting holes and I have heard of some adults in the area, but the steady hum expected by the middle of May has been delayed.   Warmer temperatures expected later this week may bring them to the surface.  It is time to wrap fruit trees and other newly-planted trees and shrubs to protect them from the egg-laying female cicadas.  Use a netting with holds no larger than one-half inch to prevent the cicadas from getting to the small branches where they will lay eggs. 

     In the vegetable garden, it should be safe to set out transplants.  However, there need not be any rush.  Tomatoes, peppers and eggplants prefer warmer soil, so waiting another week may actually be beneficial.  Sweet potatoes should not be planted for a few more weeks.  They need very warm soil to thrive.  Seed planting may proceed, but there is no urgency.  Germination will be quicker when the soil warms a bit more.

     Great growing conditions have also resulted in a lot of plants to be dug and divided.  That means that it is time to share.  Sandhill Gardens will host a plant exchange on Saturday, May 22 from 10 AM until noon.  If you have plants to trade with other gardeners, bring them along.  You may also trade items of garden décor and hardscape materials.  We have even had some garden-related clothing exchanged in the past.  Of course, even if you do not have things to trade, you are welcome to come and tour the gardens and perhaps learn from the experienced gardeners who usually come to the exchange.  Gardeners are very generous and helpful and you will likely go home with a plant anyway.  There is a sign here that proclaims, “Weeders Welcome”, and I guarantee that taking that to heart will earn you a plant or two.  The great growing conditions this spring have also been good for the weeds, so there are plenty available.  The address for Sandhill Gardens is 3061 N. County Road 810 W. (Sandhill Road), West Baden Springs.  Come and join in the fun.