Weed It or Weep

How to Prevent Weeds to grow:

1. Before weeds start appearing in spring, spread a pre-emergence herbicide, such as Preen, on your lawn and flower gardens. This will prevent weed seeds in the soil from sprouting, yet allow desirable plants to grow. 
2. spread 3-4 inches of mulch, such as  shredded wood or chopped leaves, around flowers and shrubs. For a more durable weed barrier, lay permeable landscape fabric before you plant or mulch.
3. It's inevitable -- weeds will sneak through despite our efforts. Pull these interlopers by hand.For tenacious enemies, like poison ivy, selectively spray with post-emergence herbicide, such as Roundup.
4. Eliminate dandelions before seeds scatter. Prevent resprouting by removing every bit of the long taproot with a dandelion digger.

To-do List:

1. In frost-free regions, watch out for insect pests that become more active as the weather warms. Make a point to do a weekly spot-check for japanese beetles, thrips, scale, mites, or aphids in your garden.
2. Heat-loving herbs, such as basil, dill, fennel, marjoram, and rosemary, can be planted in the garden or in containers. All herbs require well-drained soil and a minimum of six hours of sunlight a day.
3. By mid-May, it's usually safe to plant frost-tender tomatoes, eggplants and peppers. You can also sow seeds of sweet corn, melons, squash, beans and cucumbers. In the south, plant okra, southern pea and sweet potato.
4. Dress up your porch or patio with colorful hanging baskets. The larger the basket, the less often you'll have to water it. The additional potting soil helps hold moisture. Select plants that match your growing conditions. For example, use succulents in a hot, sunny location.