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Cooperative Extension: Garden and Yard

Ask the Expert

What are some things to consider when planting native shrubs and flowers?

Question: I have a patch of open woods along the road that that has nothing except trees in it. A microburst blew down a lot of trees in this space a number of years ago. Could someone please give me advice about how to “landscape” it? Where should I plant native shrubs and flowers that […]

Can you grow tomatoes in a heated greenhouse during the Maine winter without issues?

Question: I am writing to inquire about growing tomatoes in a heated greenhouse during the winter in Maine. The greenhouse can be heated to optimal growing temperature, but I was wondering if there would be enough sunlight to have fruiting plants without supplemental lights. Would the shortened daylight just increase the amount of time needed […]

Should I plant wildflowers to attract and support bees?

Question: I have a property with some woods on it, which I think was logged back in the day. I’ve seen a few bees around and was wondering if it was wise to spread some native wildflowers around the area or would that be disruptive and give them an unfair advantage? Additionally, how far away […]

When should central Maine Zone 4 start winter sowing?

Question: When should central Maine Zone 4 start winter sowing? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Home Horticulture Outreach Professional The answer ultimately depends on what you’re sowing, but realistically you can do most of it now. As it happens, I just wrote an article for the Maine Home Garden News on winter sowing, so I’ll include the relevant portion […]

How can I identify the apple variety in my orchard?

Question: I live on land that was once an apple orchard. There is only one tree left and it produces great apples for pies and sauce. Its days are numbered and I would like to identify the tree so that I can plant more trees of this variety. I have tried to match the apples […]

What is the best course of action to plant a meadow and an orchard near each other?

Question: I have decided I want the area where my orchard will be to also be a meadow. I am having trouble finding any information about this. I’m not sure if I should meadow and then plant fruit trees, or plant fruit trees and then the meadow, or if there should be time in between. […]

What is the best way to store peony bulbs this winter and plant them in the spring?

Question: I bought lots of peony bulbs in late fall and will plant them this spring. They are now covered in potting soil in pots in my garage. What’s the best way to plant to ensure they do well? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Home Horticulture Outreach Professional Typically, peonies are planted in the fall to allow […]

What is the best way to keep my amaryllis blooming throughout the years?

Question: I have a crop of fabulous amaryllis still in bloom. What’s the best way to keep them going through the years? Should I cut back the stacks and put the pots in a dark basement or garage til next fall, or should I put them outside this summer to rebloom as some people do? […]

Do you have recommendations to get rid of bracken fern?

Question: We have a lot of bracken fern in our large, wooded yard. I’m aware this is an invasive plant. Do you have any recommendations for getting rid of it? It is very tenacious! Answer: Jonathan Foster, Home Horticulture Outreach Professional While bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) isn’t currently designated as invasive in Maine (please see the invasive […]

Should I cover my field of Canadian Bluejoint grass to get rid of bittersweet and roses?

Question: I have a field of Canadian Bluejoint grass, which has been taken over by bittersweet and roses. I usually cut it all down each year, but I would like to return the field to more of the Canadian Bluejoint grass. I heard I can solarize it by covering it with black material. I would […]

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