Question: Per our garden soil sample results, we are to apply a nitrogen source this spring. We will be digging in the fall-planted winter rye as soon as able. Will that suffice or is another nitrogen source needed? If so is there a preference? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Community Education Assistant, Androscoggin-Sagadahoc Counties Although cover […]
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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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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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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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