May Gardening Tips /Date08 May 2014/Posted Bygardenworks/CategoriesGarden Tips Check slow leak detector on water meter weekly Repair irrigation leaks ASAP Program irrigation controllers to 60% of the July watering schedule (typical May is 70-75%) Adjust spray and rotor type of sprinklers to not overspray Do not allow irrigation water to runoff and use a cycle/soak method for run times Turn off irrigation system during Spring rain events as needed First high weed mow Spring fertilizer for trees and shrubs (suspend during drought or apply a half rates) Aerate lawns (very important for drought survival) Broadleaf weed control in lawns (air temps between 65-85 degrees F) If not already done – cut back frost damage on plants (after danger of frost has passed) If not already done – cut back tender perennials (Lantana, Mexican Sage) Inspect plants for Aphids and treat as needed Fertilize Citrus w/citrus food – follow application instructions for product used Plant summer blooming bulbs (Begonias, Lilies, Dahlias, Gladiolas) Plant summer annuals and vegetables Eliminate standing water where Mosquitoes breed Dead head (remove spent flowers) and clean spring bulbs Prune Spring Flowering plants after flowering (lightly or not at all during drought) Release beneficial insects for pest control Apply deer repellant in deer prone areas Begin control of Bermudagrass, Crabgrass and other noxious weeds Hand weed in and around plants Cut back/mow groundcovers to rejuvenate Begin training vines