Page 37 - AreaNewsletters "Feb2023" issue

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ground. You can use a watering can for smaller plants, a hose to water trees (near their dripline), or a hose and sprinkler for big areas like lawns or ower beds. Just make sure to detach the hose from your faucet and store after use. Plan to water once or twice a month during these dry periods to help ensure the future health of your plants.
Clean out your garden containers: Take a look at all of your plant containers – plastic, ceramic, and clay pots, wooden planter boxes, hanging baskets, seed-starting trays, etc., and empty them of any dirt, dead foliage or roots. Wash them well with hot, soapy water for a fresh, clean start to the growing season, while avoiding the transfer of any pests or diseases. Make sure to dry completely before sorting and stacking.
Check and maintain your garden tools: Now is an excellent time to take inventory of your garden tools, including trowels, shovels, weeders, rakes, clippers, sprinklers, etc. Evaluate their condition and determine if a tool needs to be cleaned, sharpened, or maybe even replaced. Don’t forget to check your garden hoses for holes or breaks. Do some online research to look for any new gardening implements you’ve been wanting to add to your collection.
To properly clean your tools, remove any chunks of dried dirt or grass using a brush or steel wool. Wipe off surfaces with warm, soapy water. This will further loosen any dirt, and reduce the chance of spreading insect infestations or bacterial diseases
into the next gardening season. When clean, dry off thoroughly with a soft cloth or paper towel.
Use steel wool to remove rust from metal blades, and ne sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots on wooden handles. Next, apply of ne layer of vegetable oil to any metal parts of your tool to inhibit rust and keep them in good working order. Linseed oil on wooden handles will help prolong their lifespan as well. Always wipe off your tools with a clean cloth between steps.
There – doesn’t that look and feel good? A few small tasks can make a big difference. You will be so glad you took the time this winter to prepare for your spring garden. Now, back to the couch – be sure to tune in to your favorite gardening show!
Brought to you by Colorado State University Master GardenersSM. Contact the help desk: dcmgardenr@ gmail.com and visit extension.colostate.edu.
720-733-6935
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Castle Rock “AreaNewsletters” • February 2023