Ask the Expert

What is a native plant that can be used to replace lawn turfgrass?

Question: We’re looking to replace our lawn grass with a low-growing, low-maintenance native plant. The area is about a quarter of an acre, in full sun.  Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant  Common groundcover alternatives to turfgrass include creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum), creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis), creeping phlox (Phlox stolonifera), bearberry (Arctastaphyllos uva-ursi), and Dutch white clover (Trifolium repens), […]

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Is there a yellow rose that is hardy to Maine?  

Question: Is there a yellow rose that is hardy to Maine?   Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant  I’ve done a bit of research into yellow roses hardy for Maine and have a few resources for you to consider: Iowa State Univ Extension page on Griffith Buck roses (Dr. Buck spent his career developing roses hardy in […]

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Why are the leaves turning yellow on my clematis vine?

Question: What is happening to my clematis vine? It has yellowing leaves.  This is the second year in a row with the same problem. Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant  There are several potential causes for yellowing in clematis foliage. The only pathological cause we would typically worry about is tomato ringspot virus, but it […]

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Are there small flowers that can be grown in the lawn for spring bloom?

Question: I’d like to know if there are small flowers that can be grown in the lawn for spring blooming that will be either done blooming or low enough when my husband mows the lawn that they don’t get cut? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Which low-blooming flowers will work for […]

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How can you control Mugwort?

Question: I have a 500 sq. ft. area that has been left wild for the last 10 years. I recently had it fenced in to keep out the deer. It is mostly covered with golden rod, wild daisies, pussy toes, some sweet fern, grasses, etc., and unfortunately, in part of the area, I believe I […]

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How can you get rid of apple worms?

Question: We have a Liberty apple tree. We planted this variety because it was supposed to be pest resistant. Each year we have the worst case of apple worms I have ever seen.  I believe these worms are from the coddling moth. We use only organic methods in our yard. Can you give us some […]

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How can you rid of Equisetum Arvense?

Question: I have Equisetum Arvense invading my lawn, flower beds, and rhubarb and blueberry patches.  Last year, I very carefully cut the small plants off at the ground level and disposed of them in the trash. They have come back and are spreading. From what I have read, there is no easy (or any?) solution. […]

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Is there a way to keep deer out of the garden space in my yard?

Question: I am having trouble with deer invading the small garden in my yard. I am growing in pots on my deck, but all I have planted in the yard are garlic and onions! Are there any edibles that I can plant which deer don’t like? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant I recommend checking […]

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Are there any cover crops that will keep Japanese Knotweed growth down?

Question: I am trying to find a good cover crop plant for my yard that will keep Japanese Knotweed growth down. Clover is popular right now so that was on my mind. If there are any native plants that might outcompete Japanese Knotweed, I would love to know!  Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant Japanese […]

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