Ask the Expert

Is lime safe to use on your lawn?

Question: We are working with a landscaper to grade our yard and address the overall health of the lawn. We haven’t done anything to the lawn since we moved in six years ago and it has grown many mossy spots. The landscaper is recommending: lime, grass seeding and grub treatment. I try to be very […]

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Are felt planters safe to grow vegetables in?

Question: I’m working on a container garden this year. I’ve done some research on what to plant in, and I’ve learned about food safe containers. I was speaking with someone recently about my tiny garden, and they mentioned that they’d had luck with felt planters. I am wondering it would be safe to plant vegetables […]

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How can you control liverwort organically?

Question: For the first time last summer I identified many liverworts growing in my vegetable garden. I did some research and found out the cause and best practices to prevent them. However, some solutions for eradicating them were chemical. Since all my gardens are organic I would like your best organic solution for eradicating the […]

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Does it matter when potatoes are planted?

Question: Does it matter when potatoes are planted if planted at least 90 days before the first frost? Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant You could probably get away with planting about 90 days before your first frost, but there are a few things you may want to take into consideration.  Check the “days […]

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How is sheet mulching done?

Question: Regarding sheet mulching: Should seeds be directly planted in compost or should I dig through the compost into the ground and plant them into the soil below. If in the ground, how deep should I dig? Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant The overall idea with sheet mulching (aka lasagna gardening) is that […]

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How do I determine the best trees for my lot?

Question: I will be landscaping my yard and want to put lots of trees on the land. How do I go about figuring out which trees are best? How do I “reforest” a small lot? Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant Thanks for your question – sounds like an exciting project! The first thing […]

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What are some growing recommendations for growing luffas?

Question: I am looking to grow luffas this year and I was wondering what sort of soil medium they should be planted in. I have some experience with mixing in my own additives for indoor plants but, I usually just go with a garden mix from a bag for my herbs, flowers, and vegetables. I […]

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How do I request help with garden planning?

Question: I’ve heard that home gardeners can request to work with a Master Gardener Volunteer for help with garden planning. How do we request this service if it is still available? Answer: Pamela Hargest, Horticulture Professional We have a Garden Mentorship Program that you may be interested in. This program is intended to match trained […]

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