Plant balled and burlapped, balled and potted, and container-grown ornamental landscape plants.

Pruning

Thinning of broadleaf and narrowleaf evergreens may be done when damaging low temperatures (below freezing) and drying winds are no longer a threat. Head back and lightly shape evergreens to remove dead and broken branches and brown, winter-injured foliage. The new growth on the plant will help you identify healthy plant parts.

Watering

Irrigate newly planted or established ornamentals any time there is less than 1 inch of weekly rainfall and plants are actively growing. Apply water at the rate of 1 quart per square foot of planting area on poorly drained soils. On well drained soils, use a half-gallon of water per square foot.

Plant protection

For newly planted ornamentals, spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over the soil in the bed or around trees.

Pest control

Warning! Not all formulations of all recommended pesticides are labeled for all suggested uses. Buy formulations that are labeled for the specific pest problem. Follow all pesticide label directions and precautions.

When a particular pest becomes active depends on the weather conditions in your area. The pest management guide gives general guidelines for a broad geographic area. Depending on your location, a particular pest may appear early or late within the month(s) in which the pest is listed.