Question: The lower 3-4 feet branches of my large rhododendrons have been eaten by deer. Should these branches be pruned as the upper part of the bush just keeps growing taller? Answer: Frank Wertheim, Extension Educator, Agriculture/Horticulture In the photo it appears that the lower branches, while severely eaten back by the deer, still have […]
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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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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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Question: I have three blueberry bushes that I planted three years ago. They only produced berries the first year and nothing since. I add pine needles around them every fall. I have one of each: Bluejay, Jersey and Late Blue. What do I need to feed them or do I need more than three plants? […]
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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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Question: My raised bed vegetable gardens were infested with grubs last summer and most of my crops failed because of the roots being chewed up by grubs. I applied milky spore last fall but my soil is still infested with grubs. Can I use beneficial nematodes this spring to knock back the grubs before I […]
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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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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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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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Question: We have a border along the side of our front yard and are looking to install shrub (all the same species) along the border (roughly 40 ft long). Suggestions have been Rugosa Roses or Hydrangea. It’s full sun, sandyish soil. We would be grateful for ideas for a native planting that would attract birds […]
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