Thanks for stopping by our blog again this week.   Sure Lawn has been serving the Northwest since 1998, and we’re dedicated to providing only the highest level of service.

Tulips! Well, it’s the last week of February 2010 and daffodils are coming into bloom with tulips rising for the occasion just behind them.  For those of you who have never attended the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, you’re missing a great experience.  This year’s festival is scheduled to run April 1 through April 30.  Visit www.tulipfestival.org for information.  When planning to attend the festival, it’s always good to find out what stage the flowers are in; some years they open earlier and some years later.

Located near Mount Vernon, Washington, my family has attended the festival most years.  Plan on rising early and driving a lot; waiting until late in the day often results in traffic jams.  Arriving in Mount Vernon around 9:00 a.m. is recommended, then drive along the many tulip and daffodil fields for a vibrant display of beauty.  The attractions include display gardens by large local growers, and various art shows.  Some of our favorites are visiting the RoozenGarde, Tulip Town, and Art in the Pickle Barn.

Roozengarde is a large grower with spectacular gardens full of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.  They have a windmill where many take pictures, as well as food booths.  And don’t forget to rub the lucky giant brass frog.

Tulip Town has family festivities, including strolling among the tulip fields, rides, food and a barn full of flower arrangements by the locals.

Art in the Pickle Barn, although no longer always in a pickle barn, is a great show for local artists.  Sometimes my family will spend what seems like hours admiring the work of great artists.

Although we planted tulips and daffodils at most of our clients homes last fall, it’s not too late for you.  Tulips and daffodils are arriving in nurseries already started.  The downside is these are more expensive than just a bulb; on the upside they’re worth every penny.  Tulips and daffodils are both bulbous plants and will return each year sporting their brilliant colors.  I like to plant them together as when the daffodil loses its luster, the tulip takes up the slack with its vibrant display.  Call our office at Sure Lawn 1-800-405-6671 to schedule a free estimate.

Great tips for February:

• Plant your primroses for a boost of vibrant spring color.
• Schedule your spring window cleaning and gutter cleaning.
• Treat walkways and driveways with zinc to help prevent moss and algae build up.
• Apply Lime on turf areas to help balance soil pH.
• Apply Ferrous Sulfate (iron) on turf areas to control moss.
• Fertilize most plants mid February to March with a balanced fertilizer such as 16-16-16.
• February is a great time to apply new bark or mulch as last year’s leaves are gone.

From everyone at Sure Lawn, thank you for stopping by and we look forward to your patronage!

We serve the greater areas of:

Salem, OR
Dallas, OR
Monmouth, OR
Independence, OR
Keizer, OR
McMinnville, OR

Redmond, WA
Woodinville, WA
Kirkland, WA
Bothell, WA
Everett, WA
Edmonds, WA
Mukilteo, WA
Monroe, WA
Snohomish, WA