Master Gardener

All About Soil Testing

Does a doctor write a prescription based on guesses? Of course not. Medication is prescribed only after appropriate consultations, examinations, testing, and diagnosis has taken place. Do farmers and homeowners fertilize based on guesses? Sometimes, the answer is yes, sadly. And, although the comparison may not be perfect, the concept I’m trying to convey is […]

All About Soil Testing Read More »

When To Cut Back Fountain Grass

Ornamental grasses can be cut back any time from fall to spring, but I like to leave them in place over the winter. They bring motion and texture to the garden when they’re desperately needed! By late winter, heavy snows and ice start to break the grasses though, and that can create quite a mess

When To Cut Back Fountain Grass Read More »

First Time Gardeners: Start Small

Anyone can develop a green thumb, as long as they’re willing to invest a little time, patience and elbow grease. Good planning is essential to successful gardening. Start your garden off right by selecting a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, if possible.  Good drainage of excess water is critical. 

First Time Gardeners: Start Small Read More »

Herb of the Year: Yarrow

Grow a champion garden with award-winning plants. A plant showcasing a long season of showy blooms that is also drought tolerant, deer resistant, and visited by native pollinators is a prized addition for any garden. Yarrow, the International Herb Association’s 2024 Herb of the Year, earned the valuable title because it possesses all four qualities.

Herb of the Year: Yarrow Read More »

Snow Is Good For Gardens

Though your aching back may not agree, recent heavy snows actually will be good for your garden and landscape. Snow provides moisture as well as protection from cold and wind. Snow is an excellent insulator against low temperatures and excessive winds. The extent of protection depends on the depth of snow. In addition, the soil

Snow Is Good For Gardens Read More »

Overwintering Indoor Plants

Winter is a stressful time for many plants in the landscape, given the drought conditions brought on by freezing temperatures and the effects of extreme cold. Although these stressors typically don’t impact our houseplants the same way, indoor plants experience their own form of winter stress, making wintertime one of the most common times of

Overwintering Indoor Plants Read More »

Caring For Your Christmas Cactus

Holiday cacti are not only popular gift plants, but they are also the subject of frequent debate among gardeners. There appears to be much confusion about these unique tropical cacti regarding care, maintenance and, especially, on how to get them to re-bloom. While most folks just lump them all together as Christmas cactus, there are

Caring For Your Christmas Cactus Read More »

Scroll to Top