Question: Can you give me names and numbers of folks in the state, who will deliver soil, compost, humus or a blend to sea and soil amendments to me in southern Maine? I am looking for 5 to 12 yards delivered to Yarmouth. Answer: Tori Lee Jackson, Extension Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University […]
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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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Question: I have very satisfactory success growing all the vegetables I want to grow except beets, carrots, and parsnips. These vegetables take far longer to develop a swollen root than they should, and never get to a good size. I am an organic gardener, and my soil tests are good in all areas except iron, […]
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Question: I grow cucumbers and tomatoes indoors and can not feel if the surface is dry. The digital meter did not give a percentage and websites go from 10 to 80%. The problem is wilt and powdery mildew, both do better at 30-35% with treatments, but plants are slow growing at that level. Answer: Lynne […]
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Question: I’m taking the “Boots 2 Bushels” course and I am loving it! I do have a question about slopes. We live on one acre of land, which is “not ideal for farming” (we are learning how to address this) and also very sloped. Do you have any tips or tricks to help with planning […]
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Question: I have a 10 x 10 greenhouse with raised beds. I added soil and ProMix to it and have used fertilizer for the five years I’ve had it. I heard that the soil in a greenhouse may become degraded after a while due to the lack of being outdoors. Is it possible that my […]
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Question: I live on the east end of Portland and I know I have lead in my soil. I have apple, peach trees, and grapes. I was wondering if the fruit would contain the lead as well? If yes, is there a safe amount that we can eat? Answer: Generally, plants do not absorb lead […]
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Question: I have been reading a lot about aerated compost teas and how they can be used on the foliage to help protect against things like fungus and insects. Do you agree with these type of statements? If so, could application on my tomato plants help with leaf spot? Answer: The short answer to your […]
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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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