Trees and shrubs that provide color in the month of May include azaleas, Kousa dogwoods, Japanese snowbell, fringe tree, spirea, sweetbay magnolias, weigela, oakleaf hydrangeas, rhododendrons and viburnum. Visit the nursery and see these beautiful plants in bloom.
If you see damage from Azalea lacebug, boxwood leaf miner or psyllid, systemic insecticides such as Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub Insect Control, or Bonide Systemic Insect Control can be used to control these pests.
The best time to prune azaleas is right after the flowers have faded. Thin out vigorous, over grown branches to stimulate new growth from the interior of the plants. You can also rejuvenate old, leggy azaleas with more aggressive pruning. Fertilize with Merrifield Flowering Plant Food or Holly-tone to support healthy growth and flowering for next year.
See our complete guide to pruning azaleas and rhododendron.
Roses begin to flower this month. Check them regularly for insect and disease pests and spray with Bonide Rose Shield or Neem Oil, an organic option, as needed.
