GARDEN FANATIC: The fresh air of March

“There are some things which cannot be learned quickly, and time... must be paid heavily for their acquiring.” — Ernest Hemingway

“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit...” — Henry David Thoreau

One of the advantages of an extended career in horticulture is that you begin to acquire knowledge about the planting seasons. In my case, the learning came slowly, not for a lack of interest, but rather for the youthful excuse of lack of time and too many competing interests.

But the lessons of experience were not completely wasted during my youth, and I am proof that with enough time, you are bound to learn a little.

My pulse quickens with excitement for spring gardening. To breathe the fresh air of March and taste the first strawberry from the garden. I anticipate and then savor the precious moment when the first daffodil appears. I smile at Catharine’s joy in seeing nine new spikes on her orchid. And I enjoyed answering your questions for the Plant Man this month.

Q. My rose is still in it’s plastic bag. Is it too late to plant it?

A. Not yet, but hurry.

Q. Should I fertilize my garden now?

A. Spring-like weather is upon us and your plants are hungry. If you don’t fertilize your garden on a regular basis, this is the most important month to do it. I would recommend that you try Gro Power Plus or Gro-Rite because they are easy to apply and you’ll see immediate results.

Q. Is it too late for bulbs?

A. March is the “other” bulb season. There is plenty of time to start gladiolus, dahlias, the fragrant tuberose, and of course tuberous begonias. They will all benefit by being mulched to keep the soil moist during our unusually sunny late winter.

Q. What do I do with my old bulbs?

A. Hyacinth, narcissus, or other spring-flowering bulbs that have flowered, may be saved by allowing the foliage to remain on the plant. Once the foliage has matured, remove the bulbs and keep them dry until time for planting in the fall.

Q. I haven’t pruned my roses yet. Am I too late?

A. Absolutely not. Prune lightly to shape, and don’t forget to fertilize and apply a dormant spray.

Q. Help! My plants are being eaten by deer. Help!

A. Try this formula. 1) Blend 2 eggs with 1/2 cup of water at high speed for 3 minutes. 2) Add an additional 2 cups of water with 2 tablespoons of Tabasco sauce ... blend and refrigerate overnight. Spray generously over your plants and repeat after heavy watering or rain.

Q. Is it safe to start my tomatoes and herbs?

A. If you’re missing those home grown tomatoes, I would recommend that you set out varieties like Early Girl and cherry tomatoes, which do well in Laguna during March. You can, of course, plant herbs in a protected, sunny part of your garden.

Things haven’t changed much for me lately. I still have a lack of time and too many competing interests. I wish I could spend more time with Catharine and my family and share a walk more often with Buster and Blondie. I promise I will, but first I’m going down to the garden to sniff a little catnip with Ollie. See you next time.

STEVE KAWARATANI is married to writer Catharine Cooper and has one cat and five dogs. He can be reached at (949) 497-8168, or e-mail to plantman2@mac.com