What's Up In The Garden

by Jackie Dohlman, Franklin County Master Gardener

Tips on Mowing the Lawn, Pinching Chrysanthemums, Planting Summer and Winter Squash, and Growing Gooseberries

How often should I mow my lawn?

Irrigation and fertilization practices, along with weather conditions, dictate mowing frequency. Kentucky bluegrass lawns should be mowed at the height of 2-1/2 to 3 inches in spring and fall. Set the mower blade to a height of 3 to 3-1/2 inches during summer. Mowing frequency is based on the growth rate of the turfgrass. As a general rule, never remove more than one-third of the total leaf surface at any one mowing. For example, if the lawnmower is set at 3 inches, the grass should be mowed when it reaches a height of 4-1/2 inches. In spring it may be necessary to mow every four to five days, possibly only once every one to two weeks in summer, with more frequent mowing again in the fall.

How often should I pinch my mums?

Pinch chrysanthemums two to three times from spring to mid-summer. Remove the stem tips when the shoots are approximately 6 inches tall. New lateral shoots will develop along the stems. Pinch again when these new shoots reach a length of 6 to 8 inches. Pinching can be done with your fingers or a pair of hedge clippers. Continue pinching until early July. Pinching results in bushy, compact plants with additional flowers.

When can I plant squash in my vegetable garden?

Summer and winter squash are warm-season crops. Plant squash after the danger of frost is past. In central Iowa, summer and winter squash can be planted in mid-May. Gardeners in southern Iowa can plant one week earlier. Plant one week later in northern portions of the state. Winter squash should be planted by mid-June. The last practical planting date for summer squash is mid-July.

What are the site requirements for gooseberries?

Gooseberries are hardy and easy to grow. Gooseberries perform best in moist, well-drained soils in partial to full sun. Avoid poorly drained, wet soils and hot, dry sites. To discourage fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, select sites with good air movement.

Suggested gooseberry varieties for Iowa include ‘Hinnonmaki Red’ (medium-size, red fruit), ‘Invicta’ (large, pale green fruit), ‘Pixwell’ (small, red fruit), ‘Poorman’ (large, red fruit), and ‘Welcome’ (medium-size, red fruit).