Question: I’ve started seeds indoors in seed trays with plastic covers. I rotate them every other day so that they each get enough light. Many of my seedlings die, I think because the soil is either too wet, or, if I take the covers off, too dry. How do I keep them alive? Answer: Abi […]
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Question: I keep seeing articles on winter sowing in milk jugs and other containers that can be covered in more southern states. Is this possible for flowers and vegetables in Maine? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional There are some plants that can be winter sown in the milk jugs in Maine. […]
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Question: I am interested in planting ornamental cherries on my property, but I worry that even for Zone 4 rated varieties our late frosts will kill the blooms. Are there any varieties you can suggest or should I give up on my dream of billowy pink blossoms? Answer: Frank S. Wertheim, Extension Educator – Agriculture/Horticulture […]
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Question: We recently moved to Maine. I want to get my soil tested. I have a collection kit. The soil is pretty frozen. I’m going to do a minimum till and and cover with about 6″ of compost. Is it worth testing the soil now? Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant It’s a great […]
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Question: I am getting eager to start cleaning up my four raised beds and gardens and start gardening. What can one reasonably get started on this time of year? Is there any harm in cutting back dead leaves and stems that will not support new growth in the spring? Should we clear away dead leaves […]
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Question: For the past few seasons, I have observed hawkweed taking over my yard. I would like to stop it and plant a native ground cover, but I have no idea what to plant or how to go about removing the hawkweed. My yard gets fairly full sun. What would you advise? Answer: Abi Griffith, […]
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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 am researching potato varieties for my home garden. I’m wondering if there is any protein difference in different types of potatoes and/or if there are other factors (soil make up, weather, etc…) that would effect the nutrient quality of potatoes. Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant There are lots of things 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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