Weather and Growth
Weather - Cold and Wet
Let's start with the weather. Hail, rain, cold - it's been a challenging spring, and it can be a stressful time for gardeners. You may have plants that have been waterlogged, haven't grown much, or are hail-damaged. Through this cold, wet spring, they have been building deep roots, which make them survivors. If you have stunted plants or damaged leaves, leave them be, and most will bounce back. The upcoming heat will do wonders for them.
Pots especially don't love the wet weather. Potting soil holds water well, but if there is too much water, a layer of algae or moss can develop on the surface. If this happens, let it dry out for a few days, then stir up the surface of the soil to break it up. This will help your soil breathe better.
Weather - Hot
Now, let's talk hot weather. It's supposed to be a hot, dry summer in Calgary. To help retain moisture, reduce weeds, and regulate the soil temperature, it's time to add some mulch to the garden beds and pots.
Compost - adds nutrients to the soil but can dry out.
Straw - retains moisture well but can hide pests.
Grass clippings - provide nitrogen but need to be dried and applied in a thin layer.
Because it's been so wet and cold and my plants are stressed and slow to grow, I'm doubling down and adding a layer of compost, then a layer of straw on the top.
Growth
The two most common questions I've had in the past month are:
Why aren't my tomatoes growing? What is wrong with them?
Are my potatoes ready to harvest?
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are slow to grow this spring. They love staying moist but don't love the constant rain we've been having. They also don't like the cool days and even cooler evenings. But they have just been waiting to grow; it will come.
Microclimates also affect plants differently. The photo on the left is a tomato plant under my eaves on a south-facing wall. It is very happy. The tomato plant on the right is in the middle of my yard in a fully exposed in-ground bed. It has not grown. But it has a nice deep green crown (growing tip), which means it's still happy, just waiting for some heat.
Because of the slow spring, I have also fed my tomatoes to help them establish a strong root system. There are so many fertilizers to choose from. My favorite brand is Evolve. They are Canadian and organic.
Rage Plus - when I first plant
Slow Release Tomato and Veg Fertilizer - for ongoing feeding
Potatoes
Interesting fact - potatoes and tomatoes are in the same plant family.
Potatoes are super growers. They can grow in almost any light, in bags, in buckets, in beds, and in the ground. They also grow fast. But, even though they look big and bushy above ground, they are not ready to harvest. The potato bag looks like it's ready, but it's not. Next, flowers will form. Pinch them off; they are of no use and are taking energy away from the growth of the tubers. Once they start to wilt and fall over, they are ready to harvest.
With all the rain and now the heat, the roses are blooming! This is a Forget Me Not rose in my garden, given to me by my sister to remember my mother-in-law. Look at how beautiful she is!
Question? Reach out to grow@gardentofork.ca.
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