Feeding the birds is such a fun hobby anytime of year. If you are just starting out black oil sunflower seeds are a great choice, and are eaten by many birds! K-State Extension has many resources to help.
Find more information on our website here- https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/bird_watching_resources/index.html
By: Cassie Homan
One of the most neglected tools for vegetable gardeners is a soil thermometer. Soil temperature is a much better measure of when to plant than air temperature or the calendar. Planting when soil is too cool can cause some seeds to rot and transplants to not root successfully.
A number of vegetables can germinate and grow at cool temperatures. For example, peas will germinate and grow well at a soil temperature of 40° F. Though lettuce, parsnips, and spinach can sprout at a soil temperature of 35° F, they prefer at least 45° F for best germination and growth. Radishes also do well at a soil temperature of 45° F. Even if the seeds of these cool- season crops are planted below the recommended soil temperature, the seed will rarely rot.
Warm-season crops such as tomatoes, sweet corn and beans are different. They prefer at least 55° F for germination (or transplanting), but others such as peppers, cucumbers, melons and sweet potatoes need it even warmer, about 60° F. If planted when soils are too cool, they likely will rot before germinating.
To take the temperature of your soil first, use a metal soil thermometer, which is sold in many garden, auto parts and hardware stores. Take temperature 2.5 inches deep at about 10 to 11 a.m. Temperature variations throughout the day and night affect soil temperature, with lowest readings after dawn and warmest around mid-afternoon. The late-morning reading gives a good average temperature. Be sure to get a consistent reading for four to five days in a row before planting, and make sure a cold snap is not predicted.
By: Cassie Homan
Warm seasons grasses include Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, and Zoysiagrass they require special care to survive our hot and dry summers. Year round attention is needed to keep the weeds down and help your grass look green and lush. Follow this DIY calendar to care for your lawn each month.
View the whole article for even more tips:
https://blogs.k-state.edu/turf/homeowner-do-it-yourself-lawn-calendar-for-warm-season-grass/
By: Cassie Homan
All-America Selections tests and introduces new flowers and vegetables each year that have done well in trials across North America. These plant winners have been “Tested Nationally and Proven Locally” for garden superiority by horticulture professionals. Any of these veggies or flowers would be great additions to your garden!
To see what varieties made the list check out- https://all-americaselections.org/product-category/year/2021/
By: Cassie Homan
Did you pick up a new hobby this past year? Many of us had some extra time at home and were able to try out new activities. Feeding and watching birds brings some excitement to the outdoors during the winter months. Join us for a Zoom Webinar Monday, February 22 at 6:00 p.m. Visit our website to register so we can send you the Zoom Link.
Contact Cassie Homan (785-738-3579) is you have any questions.
To register for the webinar, follow this link: https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/events/
By: Cassie Homan
If you are gifting or receiving Valentine’s flowers this year, follow these tips to keep them fresh:
By: Cassie Homan
Want to learn more about caring for your garden and landscape?
K-State Research and Extension has excellent resources. Throughout 2020 the horticulture team presented several informational webinars. They have been recorded and can be accessed on the HNR Website. https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/k-state-garden-hour-webinar-series/k_state_garden_hour.html
By: Cassie Homan
