Dues Nursery & Landscaping, Ltd.

1. Colorful plastic golf tees can be stuck in the ground to mark the location of dormant plants such as spring bulbs or perennials.

2. Since container-grown plants have a limited area from which to absorb water, plants in a sunny location may require watering several times a week. Check plants often to avoid water stress.

3. Pinch off onion flower buds from the top of the plants to direct all of the plant's energy into the developing bulb instead of seed production.

4. Remove old plants which have stopped producing to eliminate a shelter for insects and disease organisms.

5. To reduce the number of pests on your fruit tree for the coming year, pick up and destroy all fallen fruit.

6. Every weed that produces seed means more trouble next year. Control weeds before they go to seed.

7. Clean up fallen rose and peony leaves. They can harbor disease and insect pests over the winter if allowed to remain on the ground.

8. Mound soil over the lateral or brace roots of corn stalks for extra support against strong winds.

9. Water the garden early in the day so plants can absorb the moisture before the hot sun dries the soil. Early watering also insures that the foliage dries before night. Wet foliage at night increases susceptibility to fungus diseases.

10. Keep tall flowers staked and cut out dead flower stalks.