Garden Spot - No Water and Garlic Mustard - June 2005

Village and resident garden spots are faced with two serious problems this growing season: NO WATER and GARLIC MUSTARD.

In the past, water shortages have not been a problem until at least mid-June. This year, however, the Chicago-land area did not receive its normal abundance of spring showers, and water deficiencies have already begun to compromise the vitality of garden plantings. In addition, below normal temperatures have given resident gardeners a false sense of water security. Normally, warmer temperature, not cooler, are associated with drought conditions; and this spring has certainly had its share of lower than normal temperatures making gardeners less apt to consider the water needs of their gardens. Established gardens require 1" of water weekly to remain healthy. Trees and shrubs planted last season require a good soaking a few times a week; and newly planted and transplanted trees, shrubs, and flowers need water daily.

The villainous garlic mustard has been a problem in Village conservation areas for several years, and Village staff has been spending a great deal of time and energy attempting to eradicate it from these areas. This year, for the first time, large stands of the plant are growing in resident gardens. In May's newsletter, the subject was covered in "Nature's Edge", with information regarding the management of this unwanted invader, as well as a website for information for identifying and controlling the plant. Its delicate and harmless appearance belies the devastation it can create in the garden, and the sooner residents begin to address this issue, the easier it will be to get garlic mustard out of their gardens permanently. The alternative is a dense mass of garlic mustard where a "garden spot" once stood.

Village Garden and Natural Areas Maintenance Staff are available to help with information regarding garlic mustard, watering, and other gardening questions, by calling the Village Hall, (847) 883-8600. Please join the Garden Staff on July 1 and July 15 to learn about dividing perennials (July 1) and detailed perennial maintenance techniques (July 15). Both seminars begin at 9:00 AM and will be held at Memorial Park. Participants are invited to stay afterwards to do some volunteer gardening and have a picnic lunch. Reservations are not required, and keep in mind that volunteers never go home empty-handed.