Question: I have a white grub infestation in one of my perennial gardens. Am I safe to use nematodes without damaging my plants or harming bees? Everything I read supports the use of these beneficial organisms and that they are safe to both plants and animals and as long as I do not spray on […]
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Question: Is the hosta disease, HVX, a problem in Maine? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant As you may know, Hosta Virus X is a contagious pathogen among hostas that causes disfiguring/unsightly leaf mottling, texturing, and, in extreme cases, tissue death. Not all cultivars are equally susceptible, and symptoms can be subtle in some hostas, […]
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Question: What is happening to my clematis vine? It has yellowing leaves. This is the second year in a row with the same problem. Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant There are several potential causes for yellowing in clematis foliage. The only pathological cause we would typically worry about is tomato ringspot virus, but it […]
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Question: We have a Liberty apple tree. We planted this variety because it was supposed to be pest resistant. Each year we have the worst case of apple worms I have ever seen. I believe these worms are from the coddling moth. We use only organic methods in our yard. Can you give us some […]
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Question: I am having trouble with deer invading the small garden in my yard. I am growing in pots on my deck, but all I have planted in the yard are garlic and onions! Are there any edibles that I can plant which deer don’t like? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant I recommend checking […]
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Question: My azalea bush is about 30 years old and has bloomed beautifully every spring around Mother’s Day. Last year there was very few flowers and this year the leaves are a weird color and I have no idea if it will bloom. It does not get too much water. I’ve looked up pictures and […]
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Question: I have significant ant presence in my home and have a very large vegetable and native edible garden. I’m looking for advice on managing the ants without harming the gardens, where they might be living. Is there any pest management tools that would address the ants and not harm us or edible food? Answer: […]
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Question: How can I remove spider mites from my hemlock bush without toxic sprays? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticulturist Thank you for sending the photos so I can be sure of the plant you’re dealing with. Pesticide products used on the wrong plant can potentially cause serious damage. Here are two main options to consider from […]
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Question: I have attached a photo of my beach roses taken last fall. Several of the branches have spiky round growths on them. These branches seem to be dying. Are you familiar with this problem and to you have any suggested remedies? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Your beach roses have Mossy […]
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Question: Every year my great hollyhocks are practically destroyed by RUST. They enjoy full sun and super air circulation. I trim, sanitize my tools constantly and use fungicides to no avail. Wondering if you have any advice? I am thinking of digging and destroying them as it’s way too time consuming at this point. Answer: […]
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