Question: I am building on a three-acre piece of land that is covered in poison ivy. The land is surrounded by forest but is basically an open field. What would be my best approach to eradicating it from the field areas, keeping in mind that children and animals will be playing there? Answer: The first […]
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Question: How do I prep my strawberry bed for winter? Answer: Much depends on whether you have June bearing strawberries or day neutral strawberries, and how old the planting is. Generally speaking, mulch should be applied over strawberries in the late fall between Thanksgiving and Christmas to protect the plants from extreme winter cold and […]
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Question: Do you recommend adding rock dust to organic home gardens? Over the years I have occasionally added Greensand. How does Greensand differ from Azomite? Do you recommend either or both? This question pertains to my garden in Jackson, NH, and my son’s in Freeport, ME. Answer: I recommend that you and your son submit […]
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Question: How do I store carrots long term in my basement? Do I need to cover them with anything? Answer: Carrots should be stored with their tops removed in a cold (32°F) and humid (98-100% relative humidity) storage condition. In order to achieve high humidity, you will probably need to store your carrots in a […]
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Question: I am looking for several fairly low growing shrubs that will tolerate shade and preferably flower and attract birds. I want to separate my planned shade garden from my shady wilderness. Answer: I would suggest going with a Viburnum for your site, especially if you are interested in attracting birds and other wildlife. Maple-leaf […]
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Question: Need a recommendation for the best time to plant determinate tomato seeds for transplanting into containers. We are located in Phippsburg, Maine. Answer: In our climate, we need to start all types of tomatoes indoors and then transplant them outside after the risk of frost has passed. So, you’ll need an estimate of when […]
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Question: My vegetable garden this year was taken over by Verdolaga (pigweed) to a point where I did not enjoy my garden. Is there anything I can do now to help me next year? I don’t mind weeding, but this year was awful, I just couldn’t keep up with this weed. Answer: At this point, […]
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Question: How can I grow Ilex verticillata (winterberry) from the berry (seed)? Answer: In answer to your question about growing Winterberry, Ilex vertillata, you can use the berries from current plants. If the berries are still firm enough, put them in a plastic bag and let them ferment. When soft enough (might take a week) […]
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Question: Should I soak my peas to help germination? Answer: Yes, soaking the amount of pea seed you wish to plant in your garden in a cup of lukewarm water overnight will help the seed to absorb water and shorten the amount of time they need to germinate. When the soil has warmed up enough […]
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