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The Boy Scouts motto of "Be Prepared" was created by founder Robert Baden-Pow- ell in 1907, and became the official motto in 1910. His intent of the motto was that "every Scout should be ready in mind and body and to meet with a strong heart what- ever challenges await him." In Wisconsin this should also apply to gardening. After last year's mid-April snowstorm, wet spring and the torrential rains of August, many plants suffered and even per- ished. Could we have been more prepared? The answer is yes. Let's take a look at some practices that will help our plants thrive even in the toughest of times, whatever they may be. Create an action plan This is the perfect time to do it as we watch the snow fly and things are still fresh in our minds. Think of the problems you have had in the past and how your plants fared. Did your plants have more problems in wet or dry years? Also make notes of any insect or disease issues you may have experienced, and when they occurred. Insects and disease issues can be closely related to the weather as well. Was there a correlation? The more you can recall the better. Where do we start? It starts with our soil. Healthy soils equals healthy plants. We can always work on improving our soils whether we are planting new plants or have existing beds. Our soils are either clay or sandy loam. These can both be a chal- lenge, as one holds too much moisture, and the other not enough. Those of you that know me probably already know my answer to soil improve- ment. Yes, it's the addition of organic mat- ter like compost. It not only loosens clay soils to improve drainage but helps sandy soils retain moisture. It also adds beneficial organisms to the soil. If you are planting new plants, it's as sim- ple as adding compost to the area before you plant. Don't be shy, the more, the better. On existing beds, simply top dress the area with compost a little every year. It will eventually work its way into the soil. If our soils can maintain a healthy moisture- nutrient balance, it reduces the chances of other problems. Insects and disease Insects and disease have also been issues lately. Japanese beetles and powdery mildew are a few that come to mind. Keep an eye on your plants. Don't forget they are out there. In the industry we call it scout- ing, another correlation to our Scouts. Set up a schedule to check on your plants. You have your notes, so refer back to them. Scouting more often during times of excess moisture or drought is always a good idea. I keep insect and fungal controls on hand so I don't have to run in a panic if I start to see something. It's always a good idea to try to limit the use of chemicals, but there are some great organic controls out there these days. Just ask at your local gar- den center. Critters They can also be an issue. Maybe you have deer, rabbits or other creatures nib- bling on, or digging around, your plants. There are many repellants out there these days that work well, along with mechanical controls. Again just ask. We have to deal with them as well. These are some of the environmental aspects. Next month will look at the plants themselves and why choosing the right ones are just as important. So don't get caught off guard. Be pre- pared. Happy gardening! (Michael Timm is a horticulturalist for Ebert's Greenhouse Village in Ixonia.) MARCH 2019 HOME 7 MICHAEL TIMM 263846002 Carpet | Hardwood | Laminate | Tile & Stone | Vinyl | Luxury Vinyl & Tile www.stusflooring.com Tomorrow's Flooring Today Locally Owned & Operated Greenfield 4820 W. Loomis Rd. 414.744.9400 Waukesha 2142 E. Moreland Blvd. 262.524.1455 FREE ESTIMATES *Not valid with any other offer, sale or prior purchase. See store for details. Expires 3/31/19 * FREE CARPET INSTALLATION with order out carpet purchase (Residential Only) HURRY-OFFER ENDS 3/31/19! When it comes to gardens, follow the Boy Scouts motto Michael Timm Consider the factors you can control when gardening. At the top of the list is your soil. It's the base for what grows, and how well, in it. Treat your soil to organic matter, like compost, and it'll treat you well with good growth. Last year's ups and downs should be a lesson to expect the unexpected PART 1

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