Timing is key when it comes to growing and taking care of plants! For example, pruning at the wrong time of year can make plants more vulnerable to diseases or pests. On the flip side, if you time your amaryllis’ forced dormancy just right, you can have them blooming in time for the holidays! And did you know that garlic is actually planted in the fall, unlike most of our veggies and herbs? Fall is also the perfect time to divide and transplant spring-blooming perennials.
The Master Gardener Volunteers (MGVs) at CCE of St. Lawrence County understand just how important timing is, especially in Northern NY’s Zone 4. To make it easier for gardeners of all experience levels—whether you’re growing plants indoors or outdoors—we’ve put together a monthly calendar filled with helpful tips. Gardening is a year-round activity and having a monthly list can help you stay on top of your chores and make sure you don’t forget anything important!
The calendar covers everything from planning and planting to harvesting and storing, along with maintenance tasks. Whether you’re tending to fruits, veggies, herbs, flowers, or houseplants, it is a great reminder and a valuable resource. Plus, many tasks come with extra tips, suggestions, and links to online resources for more detailed guidance. Below are a few examples from the first months of the year:
In January:
| Inventory seeds, seed-starting supplies and miscellaneous garden supplies such as row cover | Seeds will usually last several years if stored properly. You can test seeds for germination if you are unsure if the seed you have is still viable. High Mowing seeds has a useful chart on seed viability. Have friends who also garden? If you have extra, ask them if they would like some. Maybe they’ll also have extra seeds to share |
In February:
| Review seed packets for germination times and period required for flowering or transplant into the garden. | Use this information to create a calendar plan of when you should start your seeds. This chart can be used as a handy calculator to help you plan. Use May 15 as a last frost date for St. Lawrence County. |
In March:
| For existing grape vines, prune before growth starts | Here’s an article from the University of New Hampshire on Pruning and Training Grapes for the Home Vineyard. |
In April:
| Apply dormant oil spray to fruit trees. | This should be done before buds break out. Minimum application temperature is 40 degrees with no temperatures below 32 degrees for 2 consecutive days. Here’s a video on applying horticultural oils to fruit trees. |
As you explore the calendar, you might come across some new ideas that catch your eye—like trying out a new method or learning a fun skill! Have you thought about planting a fall cover crop to give your soil a little boost? Or maybe growing microgreens to enjoy fresh greens throughout the winter? Planning to grow cucumbers or squash on a trellis? It’s a great way to save space in your garden.
There are over 100 helpful tips listed on the Indoor/Outdoor Gardening Calendar, and we’ll continue adding more. You can find the calendar on the CCE website under Home Garden and Grounds. It’s sure to become a go-to resource as you continue your gardening journey!
Stay tuned to the CCE events page for more gardening classes, or subscribe to the weekly E-news for upcoming programs.
Carolyn Filippi is a Master Gardener Volunteer who has been growing vegetables and perennials in northern NY for over 40 years. She has extensive experience canning, freezing, and storing garden produce and teaches Seed to Supper classes for beginning gardeners.