Ask the Expert

Is it possible to submit a number of soil samples for various areas?

Question: We recently purchased an 1850 sea captains farmhouse on eight plus acres just off the Kennebec River. For years, until the 1970-80’s the family had a hay farm. I have found some wild blueberries out in the fields but not much else. We do have a couple of black walnut trees, two beautiful maples, […]

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Where can I get chicken manure in large quantities?

Question: We need to fertilize our vegetable gardens/hay fields. Is there a source for getting chicken manure in large quantities, delivered to Freeport? Are there any restrictions for having large quantities of manure stockpiled? We are thinking that the only way to get it is in big loads! Also, are there any sources that also […]

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What do I need to start a rose garden?

Question: I want to start a rose garden. What do I need to get started (soil, drainage, etc.)? Answer: Tori Lee Jackson, Extension Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Androscoggin and Sagadahoc Counties As with many plants, your new rose garden will need well-drained soil and lots of sun. Your […]

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What plants would do well in our new rooftop garden?

Question: We’re in the process of building our new net zero home and we have a rooftop garden that will be roughly 14×13 and about 6-8 inches of soil mixed with some raised beds. We were wondering what kind of options we might have for plants that would do well in a well drained, part […]

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What types of plants can I start at this time of year?

Question: I live in Cape Porpoise and have a cold green house. What types of plants can I start at this time of year? Answer: Tori Lee Jackson, Extension Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Androscoggin and Sagadahoc Counties Office At this time of year, days are getting longer and it is very tempting to […]

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What are these bruise-like markings on my apples?

Question: Last summer my apple trees produced lots of fruit, but after a cold spell, had lots of bruise like markings. I am wondering what I can do to prevent it in the future. Answer: Liz Stanley, Horticulture Community Education Assistant, Knox-Lincoln Counties Thank you for your question about bruise-like markings on your apple. Without […]

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Why are the leaves curling on my Honeycrisp apple tree?

Question: I planted a Honeycrisp apple tree last summer and the leaves curled about a month later. It’s in a southeast open location and gets plenty of sun and water. The soil is sandy with rocks about a foot below and the ground slopes slightly. I want to know if the rocks below could be […]

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What would be a good species for a living fence?

Question: I am interested in planting a living fence around my yard to keep my chickens and ducks in and predators like neighborhood cats and dogs out. The fence are would be shaded by conifers in a forested area. What would be a good species for a living fence? Answer: Liz Stanley, Horticulture Community Education […]

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