Gardening reminders

Cut them back

Perennials that have already bloomed and are starting to look ragged can be cut to the ground now and allowed to produce more foliage. Spiderwort, queen of the prairie and many catmints will appreciate this treatment.

Storms may cheat plants

Keep an eye on the water needs of your plants during these dog days of summer. Afternoon thundershowers may drop a lot of water, but most of that water will run off to storm drains. Newly planted items are especially at risk since their roots have not spread to the surrounding soil.

Responsible choices

Protecting the environment should begin at home. Many environmentally responsible products are available for the home gardener. One of my favorite sources is Gardens Alive at gardensalive.com. It sells everything from composting equipment to chemicals and tools. Other sources for responsible gardening are your local extension agency and Rodale's publications on organic gardening.

Encourage insect eaters

Frogs and toads are signs of a healthy ecosystem. Encourage these amphibious visitors to the garden to take up residence. They don't have a lot of needs, except a pool of water and a place to live. You can make your own toad house by turning over a shallow clay pot with one side broken for a door or you can purchase one at many garden centers. Toads and frogs eat a tremendous amount of insects, helping your garden thrive.

Grow healthy vegetables

Diseases in the vegetable garden can be extremely frustrating. Here are some ways to minimize or prevent many of them. Select resistant varieties, grow your crops in a different part of the garden each year, water early in the morning if using overhead watering, to allow leaves to dry during the day, and use a fungicide labeled for your crop and your disease. If using such a chemical, read and follow all label directions for best control - and for your safety and that of the environment.

Homes for the birds

Birdhouses whose residents have flown the coop should be cleaned out thoroughly now. They can be put back out or kept inside until late winter in anticipation of a new nest.

Be a garden volunteer

If you love gardening, but don't have the space at home, volunteer at an area garden. Many public gardens, historic houses and other sites need dedicated people to help keep their plots in tip top shape. Tasks can usually be found to suit most anyone's needs and abilities.

Mark Weathington is the assistant director of the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, N.C. Reach him at crazyplant@msn.com.