GARDENING CALENDAR

TEXAS AGRILIFE EXTENSION SERVICE

BEXAR COUNTY  BY DAVID RODRIGUEZ

March 14, 2009

Newly emerging Irish potato plants should be fertilized every three weeks with one half cup of a high accelerated nitrogen fertilizer like a 19-5-9 for every 10 linear feet of garden row. If an organic fertilizer is preferred simply double or triple the application rate.

Healthy and vigorous growing fall planted strawberries which are setting there first fruit may need protection from birds by setting netting over the producing plants.

If pulling caterpillars off your newly growing spring vegetables are not working as a control, dust them with a natural biological control like Dipel or if a liquid is preferred use Bt.

Growing citrus in large containers will liven up any ones patio. Look for Satsumas such as Miho or Seto, Kumquats like Nagami or Meiwa, Improved Meyers Lemons, Mexican Limes and of course, make room for the state fruit of Texas, Red Grapefruit.

Beneficial insects such as ladybugs are becoming plentiful in well balanced gardens. Always take caution in spraying any pesticides, use the lowest toxic option and always follow label instructions. We all need to be good stewards to our environment.

David Rodriguez is the County Extension Agent-Horticulture with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Bexar County. For more information, call the Master Gardener “Hotline” (210) 467-6575 or visit our County Extension website at http://bexar-tx.tamu.edu.