Question: I am thinking of making some raised beds out of some old (60+ at least!) galvanized metal roofing we took off our cape in the 80’s. Should I worry about lead or cadmium leaching into my organic garden soil? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Since the panels you plan to […]
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Question: I’ve been slowly working over the last few years to remove a rather large amount of invasive plant species dotting my property and replacing them with alternative species. I’ve got several different kinds, but the three most pervasive are Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Norway Maples, and Multiflora Rose. They’ve taken over everything, and have all […]
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Question: I have a large healthy and very overgrown rhododendron in front of the house. I will be pruning about 1/3 of the plant. I am seeing some sites that advise pruning in late winter when the plant is dormant and other sites that advise pruning right after blooming in the spring. What do you […]
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Question: Please provide recommendations for using arborist chips in a vegetable garden for plants and seeds. Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant Wood chips are really great for mulching in perennial beds, around raspberries or high bush blueberries, on permanent walkways or between raised beds to help with weed suppression and water retention. They […]
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Question: Is it legal to transplant peonies from Maryland to property that I am purchasing in Maine? I don’t want to leave behind my heirloom peonies, but I don’t want to cause environmental harm or break any laws. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional First of all welcome to Maine! I think […]
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Question: This fall we had to replace our septic system. We’re left with a dramatically different backyard and a gardening challenge. What can I plant on top of and around this system? The sun exposure is at times in direct sun for several hours. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional What can […]
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Question: I read the Cornell ‘Composting to Reduce the Waste Stream’ on your site. I do not like the idea it includes about using ‘pressure treated’ wood to construct compost containers in the yard. I wonder if you agree? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticultural Professional When the Cornell document was written (1991) pressure treated lumber was […]
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Question: I have arsenic in my well water. Is it safe to eat vegetables that were grown in that environment, watered with well water containing arsenic? Answer: Marjorie Peronto, Extension Educator I assume that you’ve had your water tested and know the concentration level of arsenic. As you will see in these two fact sheets, it is considered […]
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Question: If I wanted to use rainwater to water my garden, how do I get my water tested to know if it’s safe? Answer: Marjorie Peronto, Extension Educator If you wish to use rainwater on your garden, you should treat it as any other surface water – not safe to drink or to wash produce […]
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Question: I am interested in planting a shrub or two in my yard that will attract multiple kinds of birds. I would prefer the shrub to grow no taller than 8 feet in height. My yard has sunny and shady areas. Do you have any suggestions? Answer: Vina Lindley, Food Systems and Home Horticulture Professional […]
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