Don’t rush the season: Expect variable spring weather and resist the temptation to remove winter protection from the garden until all danger of frost has passed. Mulch, evergreen boughs and other winter covers stabilize soil temperatures to prevent plants from sprouting too soon and help protect them from rodents. On average, the frost deadline in the Chicago area is mid-May–earlier in the city or near Lake Michigan.
Source: Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, a not-for-profit trade association
BEST BOOKS TO TAKE PLANT SHOPPING
A few good plants: The “Taylor’s 50 Best …” series of paperbacks from Houghton Mifflin will help you choose those most likely to thrive and be gorgeous. There are volumes on sun perennials, shade perennials, shrubs, roses, trees, herbs and edible flowers, each priced at $10 and running about 130 pages with great color photographs.
Q. I left many ornamental grasses standing over the winter. When and how far do I cut them back?
–Northbrook
A. Gardeners should cut back their dried grass stalks in early March. For large, established plants, this can be a laborious task, but it is necessary to make way for the tender new shoots. Use electrical or manual pruning shears or loppers to make clean cuts as close to the ground as possible.
Q. Is it too late to sow pansy seeds indoors for early spring color in my garden?
–Chicago
A. Pansy seeds can be sown into the garden directly in fall for spring germination. They receive the cold period they require over the winter. For spring indoor starting, satisfy the seeds’ need for a cold period by chillingthem in the refrigerator for three to five days. Plant the seeds in a sterilized soilless mix, lightly cover and keep the seeds warm and dark for maximum germination. Always harden off tender plants before planting them outside.
