Gardening in April requires a lot of forward thinking. With most shrubs leafless, perennials dormant, and evergreens dominating, it can be difficult to envision the finished look of your landscape. However, if you can get past this, April is a great month to plant a garden in Halton Hills.
Generally as a rule, if you can get your shovel in the ground and water to its roots, you can transplant container nursery stock. With our early Spring thaw and a favourable April forecast, this should not be a problem in our area.
During the winter, deciduous plants drop their leaves and enter a hibernation (or dormant) stage to store energy for the cold winter months. Transplanting in April, while a shrub is dormant, gives the roots time to set up shop in a new location before a stressful growing season. When the weather warms up, the plants wake up, and voila! buds emerge, transforming shapeless sticks into show-stopping shrubs.
The newly planted dormant shrub requires less watering and maintenance than if it were in flower. I recommend using a liquid transplant (5-15-5) fertilizer with the first watering to give the newly planted shrub or tree an added boost.
For inspiration of what to plant and where to plant it, pull out some gardening magazines or stop by your local garden centre and talk to an expert. You may find yourself pleasantly surprised and satisfied with your results.
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