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"To Do" List

SpringPlanting a balled and burlapped tree.

  1. Prune evergreen shrubs.
  2. Mow lawn to a height of 3 inches leaving clippings on the lawn.
  3. Check lawn to determine if it needs aeration.
  4. Compost garden prunings to reduce trash volume and recycle nutrients back into the garden.
  5. Plant trees, shrubs, and most plants now.
  6. Pressurize and check all zones of automatic sprinkler system to make sure there are no leaks. Set the system for shorter and/or less frequent cycles during the cool spring months.
     

SummerControlling weeds with landscape fabric.

  1. Water plants in early morning, according to plant needs, to maintain healthy root and top growth and to reduce water loss by evaporation.
  2. Control aphids and mites with insecticidal soaps to spare beneficial insects and provide long-term pest control.
  3. Prune spring-flowering shrubs just after blooms are finished. Leave the branch collar instead of making flush cuts.
  4. Keep ahead of the weeds by mowing and hand-pulling. Use herbicides sparingly and apply according to label recommendations.
     

FallComposting

  1. Compost equal parts of dry leaves and green plant materials for next year's soil amendment.
  2. Prepare the soil for next year's landscape plantings and vegetable garden.
  3. Water landscape plants for good establishment and winter survival.
  4. Drain and blow out irrigation system.
  5. Apply repellents and barriers to reduce animal damage.
  6. Install snow fence on the windward side of landscape plantings to trap additional moisture and protect sensitive plants from winter desiccation.
  7. Fertilize lawn.
     

WinterPruning.

  1. Prune deciduous trees and late summer-blooming deciduous shrubs.
  2. Soak root zone on a monthly basis if there has been no winter precipitation and if soil is not frozen. Especially watch the evergreens.
  3. Watch south-facing slopes and windy areas for winter drying and water as needed.

Relax and enjoy your landscape!

If you encounter any problems with the file provided on this page, please contact Technical Resources at 406-587-6822.

This information is also available for downloading as Chapter 15 of the publication, Creating Native Landscapes in the Northern Great Plains and Rocky Mountains. This document requires Adobe Reader.

To Do List (PDF; 1.6 MB)

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