Garden Design and Maintenance

What’s the best way to keep slugs from devouring my bush beans?

Question: I want to plant bush beans. Last year they got devoured by slugs. What is the best way to limit or stop the slugs? Answer: Brian Erickson, Sustainable Agriculture Professional/Professional I We have a few great resources when it comes to dealing with slugs. Home and Garden IPM from Cooperative Extension, Slugs and Snails […]

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What’s wrong with my rhododendron?

Question: I have a large rhododendron that has developed a problem. I believe it has a nutrient deficiency but I don’t know what it is. I had a soil test done on 04/16/2021 (2029) that indicates I need to reduce the pH a half a point. What do you think is the problem? Answer: Rebecca […]

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What is the best type of soil to use in my raised bed gardens?

Question: I am starting some raised beds this year. What is the best type of soil to use? I use Coast of Maine for starting my plants. Answer:  Caragh Fitzgerald, Associate Extension Professor, Agriculture When you’re filling a raised bed, the primary material should be mineral soil, rather than a potting soil. Mineral soil is […]

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What’s the best compost for mulching my flower garden?

Question: I would like to mulch my flower gardens with Benson Farm Compost, would you recommend that? Answer: Pamela Hargest, Horticulture Professional We are unable to recommend a specific company, but always encourage gardeners to discuss products with companies in advance before making any purchases. Compost serves as a short-term mulch, so combining it (50/50) […]

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Will my Baptisia shoots grow back?

Question: I have asked several questions over the past few years about my blue indigo Baptisia plant. I always appreciate your responses. New shoots are just beginning to emerge this year. I have about 12 that I have counted. Unfortunately, my dog just dug in the area where the baptisia grows and damaged about half […]

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What is a good cover crop to plant?

Question: If we want to let our garden be fallow for this summer season what is a good cover crop to plant? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticultural Professional Very wise of you to make a plan for your resting garden. Buckwheat followed by oats is one of my favorite combinations. Buckwheat grows quickly, out competing many […]

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Which hedge plants do well in wet areas?

Question: I have a very wet area/spring in full sun on my property close to an access. I’m thinking of planting some sort of hedge to keep vehicles from getting mired in the mud every spring and tearing up the ground. Do you have recommendations for a hedge plant that would do well where it’s […]

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