April marks a crucial time for gardeners across different regions, with fluctuating temperatures and varying rainfall. While the South enjoys the full bloom of spring, the North still grapples with lingering winter chills. Despite unpredictable weather, your plants are gearing up for the season ahead. Here’s a breakdown of April gardening tasks by region to make the most of sunny days:
All Regions
- Test your soil’s health by sending samples to your local extension office.
- Turn over compost to hasten decomposition.
- Prune shrubs that bloom on old wood.
- Plant new perennials and divide old ones as needed.
Mid-Atlantic
- Sow outdoor seeds for vegetables.
- Prune rose bushes before buds emerge.
- Seize the last chance to plant trees and shrubs.
Midwest
- Complete spring cleaning in flower beds.
- Sow cool-season crops directly into soil.
- Start acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.
Northeast
- Directly sow cool-season veggies and flowers.
- Harden off seedlings for later transplanting.
- Clear mulch from emerging perennials and bulbs.
Pacific Northwest
- Turn under cover crops.
- Plant indoor-started transplants when soil dries.
- Sow leafy crops outdoors and divide perennials.
Pacific Coast
- In Northern California, plant warm-season crops and fertilize perennials.
- In Southern California, check and replenish mulch levels and plant tropicals.
Hawaii
- Directly sow warm-season plant seeds.
- Combat citrus scale with Ecoworm Potassium Soap on citrus trees.
Southwest
- Mulch strategically and fertilize perennials with Ecoworm Soil Extract.
- Plant warm-season crops.
Southeast
- Stake tall perennials and finish pruning roses.
- Directly sow warm-season veggies and transplant seedlings as temperatures rise.
Florida
- Prune flowering shrubs and control pests like grasshoppers and mosquitoes.
- Mulch around plants and monitor citrus trees for pests.
From soil testing to seed sowing, April sets the stage for a fruitful gardening season ahead, no matter your location.
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