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Planters Almanac

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 24, 2009

What To Do This Month

Apply pre-emergent weed killer to lawn: Pre-emergent herbicides kill weed seeds as they germinate. Some fertilizers contain pre-emergent herbicide. Do not apply them near trees and shrubs or in areas where any seed will be planted.

Watch new growth for aphid infestation: Aphids feed on the undersides of new, tender leaves causing curled, distorted growth. Most broad-spectrum insecticides easily control aphids, but soap solutions are effective as well. Mix 2 tablespoons of liquid dishwashing soap (do not use those containing a degreaser, and use a third less for concentrated soaps) in 1 gallon of water. Forceful sprays of water can dislodge aphids.

Fertilize shrubs: A good lawn fertilizer such as 12-4-8 or 15-5-15 is usually adequate. Shop for a product with 30 percent to 50 percent of the nitrogen in a water-insoluble or slow-release form.

What To Plant This Month

Herbs and spices: anise, basil, bay laurel, borage, caraway, cardamon, chervil, chives, cilantro (coriander), dill, fennel, ginger, horehound, lemon balm, lovage, marjoram, Mexican tarragon, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme

Bulbs: achimenes, African lily, alstroemeria, amaryllis, Amazon lily, Aztec lily, blackberry lily, caladium, calla, canna, crinum, crocosmia, dahlia, gaillardia, gladiolus, gloriosa lily, hurricane lily, Kaffir lily, Louisiana iris, morea, rain lilies, society garlic, tiger lily, tritonia, voodoo Lily, walking iris, Watsonia

Vegetables: beans, beets, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, celery, collards, corn, cucumber, eggplant, green onions, lettuce, mustard, English peas, peppers, potatoes, pumpkin, radish, squash, tomatoes, turnips, watermelon

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