For growers of roses in the western part of the country during January it is smart on established roses, according to the rosarians of the American Rose Society, to have a 2-inch mulch of cow manure right now. It is suggested that chemical plant foods be applied for the first time each spring in April and thereafter at monthly intervals. It is not recommended that many of the high-powered chemical fertilizers be put around newly planted roses the first season. Mulching with manure is enough. Regular feedings can begin the second year.

For those of you wanting to establish a Camellia collection. Many nurseries feature special collections of easy-to-grow varieties to encourage greater interest in camellia culture. Literally thousands of Easterners transplanted to the “Coast” do not realize that camellias do not require greenhouses in this area.

Planting lawn seed. If yours is one of the thousands of homes which have sprung up in the West, you will want to get the lawn planted as soon as possible so the winter rains will not be a constant source of mud. While grass seed does grow faster if sown in May, it is a cool weather plant and germinates well this season. One big advantage to planting lawns early is that this way it’s possible to beat the weeds. Later on, during May, weeds grow so fast that they get ahead of newly-planted lawns but by giving the grass a good head start the weeds won’t find it so easy to get established.

To avoid summer pests, from now (late January) through the end of May is one of the busiest times for the hatching of garden pests. But it’s possible to kill off these pests while they are still young and vulnerable. There are many types of contact insecticides for the general run of garden pests and in recent years new scientific aids have greatly lessened the problem of pest control. Use them.

Also on the January garden checklist for the western gardener - divide fall blooming perennials. It is a good idea to divide those which have not been touched for three years or more. Among those which can be lifted, divided and reset now are: Shasta daisy, perennial phlox, hardy asters, rudbeckia, gaillardia, helenium, and helianthus.

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