Ask a Desert Gardener, February, 2025
Although February is the shortest month, there is a great deal to do to ensure that your garden will flourish in the months ahead. To accomplish this, divide February’s chores into four weekly categories: Cleanup, preparation, purchase, and planting.
Week 1 Cleanup and repair your existing garden. This is accomplished by removing dead and damaged plants and pruning back branches. Make sure that non-functioning irrigation equipment is repaired or replaced. To do this, a visual inspection should come first followed by a test run of drips and emitters as well as valves, clocks and tubing. While running your irrigation system, make sure that there are no wet or damp spots. This can signal breaks or leaks in the underground tubing. A timely repair now can save you time and money in the future if these tubes burst! An inspection of the actual drip emitters will show you which ones are not functioning. If the emitters look clogged and covered with “white powder”, remove and soak overnight in a solution of vinegar and water and they will be as good as new.
Week 2 Prepare your soil by adding sulfur to lower the pH levels caused by alkaline salt buildup during the winter months. A high pH level can prevent plants from absorbing nutrients. Once combined with the soil, you can add the nutrients needed for a thriving garden. To enrich the soil, use an “all-purpose” fertilizer having a 24-8-16 ratio of nitrogen-phosphorus-and potassium. If you are growing fruit and vegetables, or cactus and flowers; add bone meal which will provide needed phosphorus and calcium. This is also the time to add “systemic” insect control to the soil around your agave and yucca to control root-eating weevils and grubs.
Week 3 The plant nurseries will be receiving their shipments of flowers, shrubs, and vegetables. Begin the purchasing process of replacing plants and choosing your garden “palette” for the growing season.
Week 4 Now is the time to plant your new acquisitions. Remember to modify your drips and irrigation systems to accommodate these additions.
Have a question? Contact me at: Theplantwhisperer28@gmail.com
Howard Galin is a University of Nevada certified Master Gardener and the Chair of the SCA Garden Club House Call Program.