Late Winter:
FERTILIZING - Mid to late February is the time to fertilize trees, shrubs and evergreens. Use a
rhododendron type fertilizer to feed evergreens like junipers, conifers, broadleaf evergreens,
rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. Use a rose or all-purpose garden type fertilizer to feed roses,
fruit and flowering trees, plus other deciduous trees and shrubs. If you use dry type fertilizers, be
sure to water-in thoroughly after application.
PRUNING - This is one of the best months of the entire year to prune fruit, flowering and shade
trees. Deciduous plants like forsythia, quince, spirea and other early spring flowering shrubs should
be pruned a little later, after they have finished flowering. Or, you can cut a few branches early and
force them into early bloom in warm water. Basic pruning is done to improve the shape of the plant,
open it up for good air circulation and better sun exposure. Always start your pruning by removing
all dead, decayed or broken branches. Water sprouts, suckers, and crossed branches can also be
removed to improve the appearance of the plant and encourage a better shape. Roses can be pruned
late this month or next.  
SPRAYING - February is the month to make the last application of winter dormant spray. A
combination of lime- sulfur and oil is the mix generally used for dormant spraying. It should only be
used on deciduous trees and shrubs like fruit, flowering and shade trees. Spray at a time when the
wind is not blowing and when temperatures are above freezing. Lime sulfur is apt to burn leaves and
needles, so keep the spray off the foliage of evergreens.  
STARTING SEEDS - Late this month and early next are good times to start seeds indoors of
summer annuals, perennials, herbs and vegetables. Use a good sterilized soil to start the seeds.
Choose a warm, bright spot in which to start them.
Winter Tips
Urban Gardeners