To-Do List for August

Ornamentals

 Deadhead annuals and perennials as needed.

 Continue spraying roses that are susceptible to black spot and other fungal diseases.  Roses should receive no further nitrogen fertilizer after August 15th.

 Divide bearded iris now. Replant so tops of rhizomes are just above ground level.

 Prune to shape hedges for the last time this season.

 Evergreens can be planted or transplanted now to ensure good rooting before winter arrives. Water both the plant and the planting site several days before moving.

 Soak shrubs periodically during dry spells with enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.

 Once bagworms reach full size, insecticides are ineffective. Pruning off and burning large bags provides better control.

 Spray black locust trees to protect against damage by locust borer.

 Watch Scotch and Austrian pines for Zimmerman pine moth damage.  Yellowing or browning of branch tips and presence of pitch tubes near leaf whorls are indicative. Prune and destroy infected parts.

 Monitor plants for spider mite activity. Hose these pests off with a forceful spray of water.

 Second generation pine needle scale crawlers may be present on Mugo pine now.

Vegetables

 Compost or till under residues from harvested crops.

 Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower transplants should be set out now for the fall garden.

 Cure onions in a warm, dry place for 2 weeks before storing.

 Sow seeds of beans, beets, spinach, and turnips for the fall garden.  Spinach may germinate better if seeds are refrigerated for one week before planting.

 Begin planting lettuce and radishes the last 2 weeks of August.

 Pinch the growing tips of gourds once adequate fruit set is achieved.  This directs energy into ripening fruits, rather than vine production.

Fruit

 Prop up branches of fruit trees that are threatening to break under the weight of a heavy crop.

 Thornless blackberries are ripening during the first week of August.

 Spray peach and other stone fruits to protect against peach tree borers.

 Sprays will be necessary to protect late peaches from oriental fruit moth damage.

 Cultivate strawberries. Weed preventers can be applied immediately after fertilizing.

 Watch for fall webworm activity now.

Turfgrass

 Apply insecticides now for grub control on lawns.

 Lawns scheduled for renovation this fall should be killed with Roundup. Have soil tested to determine fertility needs.

 During the last week in August, dormant lawns should be soaked to encourage strong fall growth.


Source:  Missouri Botanical Garden

Posted:  8/1/14