March is a very busy month for all gardeners. There is so much to do; pruning, preparing the soil, fertilizing the shrubs, trees, lawn and mulch to preserve water.
Tomatoes seem to be the number one vegetable for home gardeners. There are many varieties, including hybrids and heirlooms. We each have our favorites but it is interesting to try a new variety each season. If you want a wide choice, and you have checked at the local nurseries. Try Sunshine Community Gardeners in Austin. 4814 Sunshine Drive. It is the oldest community garden in Austin. It has been in existence 18 years. They bought 100 varieties of tomato seeds. They will be ready for sale March 1, 2014. www.sunshinecommunity gardens.org
Our weather is so unpredictable with fruit trees blooming and buds breaking one doesn’t know what to do. I will be preparing raised beds for tomatoes and peppers. At this time they are in gallon cans, waiting for the right weather. When I am ready, I will dig a hole, a little larger than normal, add a handful of Rock Phosphate in the hole, plant the tomato and water. Sprinkle Epsom salts lightly over the planting area, this will help with fungus problems and prevent Bottom End Rot. Keep damp but not wet, fertilize and mulch.
The KBB group have been cleaning up the East side of the Square, when weather permits. We still lack a lot to complete Spring cleaning. Our group is short workers. Two regulars, Ruby Duecker and Pat Vallone are out with serious health problems. We are looking for some helpers for two to two and a half hours a week. We usually work on Tuesday mornings, weather permitting. My phone number is 830-833-5663.
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