Monthly Gardening Tasks - May

Allow foliage of spring-flowering bulbs to mature and yellow before removing.

Set out plants of portulaca and purslane in sunny areas. Root cuttings of your favorite colors by placing 3 to 4 inch stems in moist, sandy soils.

It is not too late to sow directly into the soil seeds of sunflower, zinnia, morning glory, portulaca, marigold, cosmos, periwinkles, and gourds. Achimenes, cannas, dahlias, and other summer flowering bulbs can also be planted in May.

Pinch back the terminal growth on newly planted annual and perennial plants. This will result in shorter,, more compact well branched plants with more flowers.

Time to plant caladium tubers, impatiens, begonias, and pentas in shady areas.

Making cuttings of your favorite chrysanthemums and root them in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Cover cutting box with plastic and place in a shaded area for 5 or 6 days to prevent wilting.

Replace or replenish mulch materials in flower beds and shrub borders to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth.

Roses

Prune climbing roses as they complete their spring bloom season. Remove dead or weak wood as needed.

Do not forget to spray roses for black spot control. Use triforine, phaltan, benomyl, or maneb at 7-intervals.