By CityEscape Garden Center
1. Remove faded or dead blooms (deadhead) on annual and perennial plants to encourage more flowers.
2. Water throughout the summer. In hot, dry weather, newly planted perennials need about one inch of water per week … whether it rains or not.
3. Continuously remove weeds—once a week is a good routine. Weeds that are left in the garden too long will go to seed and are sure to produce many more weeds.
4. As the summer progresses watch for insects and disease.
5. Mulch trees and flower beds, two to three inches thick. Mulch retains moisture and adds nutrients to the soil. It also retards weed growth.
6. Mow your lawn at about 2.5'-3' thick. This height shades out weed seeds and promotes a healthier root system.
7. Be sure to fertilize plants in containers and window boxes as most nutrients leech out during the course of the summer. Check them daily for watering. For the biggest, best and most continuous bloom we recommend you apply a blossom fertilizer, for example, Miracle Gro 'Bloom Boost'.
8. Avoid leaving containers in standing water. Standing water, even in small amounts, is a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Containers left in standing water will also increase the likelihood of plant root rot.
9. If you have any questions or want more specific information, consult with knowledgeable staff at your local garden center.
10. Escape the many stresses of today's fast-paced world … take time to enjoy your garden!
CityEscape is a full-service lifestyle garden and design center specializing in the retail sale of plants and garden accessories, and also offering design and installation services.
The Center is the anchor tenant of the Garfield Market and is part of the City's Green District Initiative—bringing new life to the West Side neighborhood.
CityEscape's staff members—most having degrees in horticulture—are on hand to offer advice on the unique issues urban gardeners face in a small yard, on a rooftop, or even on a balcony.
CityEscape has a nice selection of Illinois-native plants. This helps insure that plants will grow successfully at the homes of customers. CityEscape also offers the largest selection of herbs (all organically grown) in the city. Water gardeners will find everything they need: from a small container for a balcony to a pond in a backyard.
CityEscape also offers a place for local artists to display their work. Currently on display are several sculptures by Jason Verbeek of the Foundry Gallery—best known for his interior design work for Japonais restaurant in River North.
City escapes is at 300 N. Central Ave., Garfield Park Conservatory. Call (312) 743-1338. www.cityescape.biz .