Question: We have a four foot tall crab apple tree in our backyard. Some kids were running around and accidentally sat on the tree breaking off three sizable branches. Can I put the branches in water to root/start new trees or what can I do to save the branches and the tree? Answer: Jonathan Foster, […]
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Question: I live in the midcoast region. I would like to start planting lettuces, but the temps have been low…30’s at night and 40’s-50’s during the day. Is it still too early/cold or can I plant the seeds? What other cold weather vegetables can I plant now? I will be adding compost and 5-10-5 to […]
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Question: I am looking into putting American Holly in my yard, specifically Blue Princess and Prince. I’ve read online that it can grow 10 feet tall but other local sources say 4-6 feet tall. Do plants in Maine not grow as tall as they say online because the growing season here is shorter? Answer: Jonathan […]
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Question: I use annual rye grass as a green manure in my vegetable garden. Should I turn it into the soil in the fall or in the spring? What other cover crops are recommended for vegetable gardens? Answer: Pamela Hargest, Horticulture Professional If annual ryegrass is sown in the fall, then it can be incorporated […]
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Question: I have significant ant presence in my home and have a very large vegetable and native edible garden. I’m looking for advice on managing the ants without harming the gardens, where they might be living. Is there any pest management tools that would address the ants and not harm us or edible food? Answer: […]
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Question: Do you have a simple DIY formula for making a simple NPK fertilizer for my garden? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticulturist Thank you for reaching out. I frequently help people figure out a good fertilizer blend for their home gardens, but always base it off a soil test from the Maine Soil Testing Service. A […]
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Question: How can I remove spider mites from my hemlock bush without toxic sprays? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticulturist Thank you for sending the photos so I can be sure of the plant you’re dealing with. Pesticide products used on the wrong plant can potentially cause serious damage. Here are two main options to consider from […]
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Question: We have raised beefsteak tomato plants from the seeds of a plant that we purchased last year. The plants are doing great, but the flowers are at the same stage for the last three weeks and they have not developed at all. Are they going to be able to produce fruit? Answer: Donna Coffin, […]
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Question: I would like to mulch my raspberry plants. I know wood chips are good, but can you use coarse sawdust? Answer: Donna Coffin, Extension Professor Mulch will reduce weed pressure, retain soil moisture, and add organic matter. Coarse sawdust can deplete the nitrogen in the soil as soil microbes start to break down the […]
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Question: Sphagnum moss is taking over our lawn, especially in shady areas. I have tried changing the soil pH with wood ashes and lime, but no success thus far. Is there a better way without laying down poisons? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant Moss in the lawn can be very frustrating, and is almost […]
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