APRIL

In the Edible Garden

• Harden off transplants before planting outdoors. Gradually expose plants to outdoor conditions over a 5-7 day period.
• Plant late varieties of potatoes on top of the ground in straw.
• Start cucumber, cantaloupe, summer squash and watermelon seeds indoors.

In the Ornamental Garden

• Place stakes around plants now so plants can grow through stakes. The cheap green tomato cages sold in most garden centers work well to support many plants except tomatoes.
• Divide perennials when they resume growth. Divide poppies, peonies and iris in late summer to early fall. 4-inch diameter sections work best. Rake back mulch around roses when new growth appears.Cut back dead or damaged rose canes to the base of the plant. Slightly damaged canes need to be cut back to healthy wood. Cut back to an outward facing bud, so new growth will grow outward and provide good air circulation around the plant.
• Mow groundcovers to remove winter-burned foliage. Raise the mower to its highest setting. Fertilize and water to encourage rapid growth.

In the Interior Garden

• Start tuberous begonias and caladiums indoors for planting outdoors in June.
• Place Easter lilies in a bright cool location and out of direct sunlight.