Question: I have chronic acid reflux and need a low acid tomato seed or plant recommendation. Answer: Frank Wertheim, Extension Educator, Agriculture/Horticulture Though there are a number of commercial .com web sites such that list low acid tomato varieties, they may not be verified by research based institutions. This University of Nebraska fact sheet on […]
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Question: I would like to mulch my flower gardens with Benson Farm Compost, would you recommend that? Answer: Pamela Hargest, Horticulture Professional We are unable to recommend a specific company, but always encourage gardeners to discuss products with companies in advance before making any purchases. Compost serves as a short-term mulch, so combining it (50/50) […]
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Question: I have asked several questions over the past few years about my blue indigo Baptisia plant. I always appreciate your responses. New shoots are just beginning to emerge this year. I have about 12 that I have counted. Unfortunately, my dog just dug in the area where the baptisia grows and damaged about half […]
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Question: If we want to let our garden be fallow for this summer season what is a good cover crop to plant? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticultural Professional Very wise of you to make a plan for your resting garden. Buckwheat followed by oats is one of my favorite combinations. Buckwheat grows quickly, out competing many […]
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Question: I live in coastal Lubec and have zero soil around my house, as the builder infilled with pure gravel (good for drainage, if nothing else, right?!). I plan to trench the gravel to develop soil beds for native plantings, and need guidance for what to use / how to mix the right soils. I […]
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Question: Our garden is on a south-facing hill and we get a fair amount of wind. While the soil has tested as good+, it is light and dries out quickly. We’re adding compost but wonder if there is something else that would add heft? Answer: David Fuller, Agriculture and Non-Timber Forest Products Professional IV You […]
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Question: How can I test the Abbagadassett River water to know if it is good for my garden? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticultural Professional If you have a productive well that has been tested or are using a municipal water source, you have the absolute best chance of irrigating with very good water and positive results. […]
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Question: We have a border along the side of our front yard and are looking to install shrub (all the same species) along the border (roughly 40 ft long). Suggestions have been Rugosa Roses or Hydrangea. It’s full sun, sandyish soil. We would be grateful for ideas for a native planting that would attract birds […]
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Question: I was wondering if you could please help me identify animal droppings? We have found these consistently in our backyard over the last week or two. We have a tall fence enclosing the entire yard so I don’t think it is a dog. There are raccoons and skunk in the area but consulting the […]
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Question: I was wondering if you sell or know where I can buy ladybugs? It was recommended to us last year to prevent certain microscopic bugs (that I can’t remember) on some of our bushes. Answer: Sustainable Agriculture Professional/Professional I We do not sell ladybugs through extension in Maine. However, here are two great resources […]
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