* To have forget-me-nots in bloom early next season, the seed should be sown this month. They make an attractive under planting for spring bulbs such as tulips.
* The Virginia bluebell, Mertensia virginica, can be divided at this time because the plant is in its dormant stage.
* The foliage of bleeding heart, Dicentra spectabilis, which has died and become unsightly should be removed
and disposed of in the garbage.
* Peonies should be ordered now for September planting. Many Japanese varieties are choice and little known.
* Cuttings taken from English ivy now will produce good houseplants this winter.
* When dividing irises, make a careful inspection for the iris borer and destroy any infested roots.
* Begin to order your fall bulbs now. It is better to order early than to be disappointed when they are out of stock.
* Potatoes can be dug as soon as the tops have died. You can dig them as needed. They store better in the ground than in your house.
* Eggplants and peppers are now bearing. Keep the matured fruit picked so the younger ones will develop.
* Tie up cauliflower heads now by pulling the leaves over the top and fastening with a string. Then they will blanch properly.
* Save tomato seeds from the most healthy, heavily fruited plants to start for next year.
* You can sow lettuce seeds now for a late crop this fall.
* The old canes should be cut from raspberries now that the fruiting season is over.
* Begin to prepare dead spots in your lawn for reseeding at the end of this month. If the grass is brown and standing upright, it is just dormant waiting for cooler and wetter weather in the fall. Remove any dead areas and one week before seeding apply a high phosphorous fertilizer to help the new seedling’s root development.
* There is no reason why the cold frame cannot be used from now until winter for growing crops such as lettuce and beets.
* Many of the herbs can be cut and dried at this time of year to prepare them for winter’s culinary uses. Store them in a cool, airy and shady place for best results.