Maine Home Garden News

Are there small flowers that can be grown in the lawn for spring bloom?

Question: I’d like to know if there are small flowers that can be grown in the lawn for spring blooming that will be either done blooming or low enough when my husband mows the lawn that they don’t get cut? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Which low-blooming flowers will work for […]

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How can you control Mugwort?

Question: I have a 500 sq. ft. area that has been left wild for the last 10 years. I recently had it fenced in to keep out the deer. It is mostly covered with golden rod, wild daisies, pussy toes, some sweet fern, grasses, etc., and unfortunately, in part of the area, I believe I […]

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How can you get rid of apple worms?

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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How can you rid of Equisetum Arvense?

Question: I have Equisetum Arvense invading my lawn, flower beds, and rhubarb and blueberry patches.  Last year, I very carefully cut the small plants off at the ground level and disposed of them in the trash. They have come back and are spreading. From what I have read, there is no easy (or any?) solution. […]

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Is there a way to keep deer out of the garden space in my yard?

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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Are there any cover crops that will keep Japanese Knotweed growth down?

Question: I am trying to find a good cover crop plant for my yard that will keep Japanese Knotweed growth down. Clover is popular right now so that was on my mind. If there are any native plants that might outcompete Japanese Knotweed, I would love to know!  Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant Japanese […]

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Will adding seaweed to my garden bed affect the well water below it?

Question: I would like to cover a garden bed with seaweed. My well is under this bed. Will my water be affected by this?  Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant Seaweed is an excellent amendment for garden beds, with many benefits and advantages over other fertilizers and mulches (please see this entry by my colleague Liz […]

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Is “No-Mow May” beneficial?

Question: I heard that “No-mow May” is more harmful than reducing the amount of mowing, or “Low-mow May”, which would increase the number of pollinator plants in the lawn.  Which is correct?  Answer: Lynne Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional  The answer to your questions of no-mow vs low-mow May is that “It depends.”. The purpose […]

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What is the best time to plant potatoes in our raised garden beds?

Question: What is the best time to plant potatoes in our raised garden beds? Answer: Jonathan Foster, Special Project Assistant For reference, I include the UMaine Extension Planting Chart and Schedule, but as you’ll see you are already in the planting window for potatoes (5/1 -6/1 in central Maine, 10-14 days earlier for coastal areas). […]

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