Gardening Calendar for February

This calendar is provided as a general guide to gardening activities.

• To extend the vase life of cut flowers you should:
  1. Recut stems underwater with a sharp knife.
  2. Remove any stem foliage that would be underwater.
  3. Use a commercial flower preservative.
  4. Display flowers in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight.
• Repot any root-bound house plants now before vigorous growth occurs. Choose a new container that is only 1 or 2 inches larger in diameter than the old pot.
• When sowing seeds indoors, be sure to use sterile soil mediums to prevent diseases. As soon as seeds sprout, provide ample light to encourage stocky growth.
• Now is a good time to learn to identify trees by their winter twigs and buds.
• Grapes and bramble fruits may be pruned now.
• Save grape vine prunings for making into attractive wreaths and other craft objects.
• Late winter storms often bury birds’ natural food supplies, and a well stocked feeding station will provide a life-giving haven for our feathered friends.