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Published on 02/18/04

Some things you just have to wait on

By Mike Isbell
University of Georgia

I told myself I'm going to prune those overgrown Burford hollies at my house this year. But I'm going to wait until the end of February before I prune. That way, I can see what Mother Nature's going to do.

You see, pruning can stimulate plant growth. It's not unusual to get warm periods and new plant growth during February and early March. A late March freeze could kill that new, tender growth. So I'm not going to be too quick and jump the gun on pruning.

There are other things I can do in the yard in the meantime, like soil testing.

Plan 'B'

The University of Georgia Extension Service recommends soil testing every three years or so. It's been at least that long since I last had my soil tested.

So I'll get a soil test this year. Actually, I should have done that in the fall so if I found out I need limestone to raise the soil's pH, I could have put it out in the fall.

A soil test is an important tool. It will help me determine what kind and amount of fertilizer to use. Since all plants don't require the same amounts of fertilizer and the same soil pH, a soil test will help eliminate the guesswork -- so I'm not "shooting in the dark."

Plan 'C'

I've got one spot in my front yard that needs some grass replanted. I'll need to prepare the soil in that area by tilling before I plant. That will be the best time to mix any fertilizer or limestone into the soil.

But I'll have to wait until the soil is dry enough in the spring to till it. I can really create problems if the ground is too wet and I till or plow anyway.

A good test is to mold a handful of soil in my hand. If the ball isn't sticky but crumbles readily when I press it with my thumb, the soil is ready to be worked.

Now what?

Well, lets see. It's too early to prune and it's too wet to till up that spot in my yard. Besides, it's too early to plant that grass. It may even be too wet to get a soil test.

I think I'll just get the lawn mower fixed.

(Mike Isbell is the Heard County Extension Coordinator with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.)

Mike Isbell is the Heard County extension coordinator with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Experts/Sources:
Mike Isbell
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