| I planted a garden about 2 1/2 weeks ago and now need to feed and deadhead desert daisies, alysium and autumn sage. Next week we are supposed to hit 100+ degrees. Should I feed first and then deadhead about a week later? I don't want the young plants to burn because they are not protected with foliage? |
| You should remove old flowers as soon as they are spent. If you leave them on the plant they will begin to form seeds, which will sap energy from the plants. So snip them off as soon as they fade, regardless of the weather. You can feed now. If the sun gets too hot and your plants begin to wilt, set up some temporary shelter for them. Just prop up some cardboard or a window screen, or anything that will shade the plants from hot afternoon sunshine. Your plants will eventually harden off and be able to take the summer sun but for now they will need a little shelter. Best wishes with your garden! |
