Maine Home Garden News
Is it legal to transplant peonies from Maryland to Maine?
Question: Is it legal to transplant peonies from Maryland to property that I am purchasing in Maine? I don’t want to leave behind my heirloom peonies, but I don’t want to cause environmental harm or break any laws. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional First of all welcome to Maine! I think […]
Read moreWhat can you plant on top of and around the septic system?
Question: This fall we had to replace our septic system. We’re left with a dramatically different backyard and a gardening challenge. What can I plant on top of and around this system? The sun exposure is at times in direct sun for several hours. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional What can […]
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Maine Home Garden News — February 2022
In This Issue: Editors Note: Much Love for the Maine Home Garden Newsletter Team! February Is the Month to . . . A Review of The Green Gardeners Guide: Simple, Significant Actions to Protect & Preserve Our Planet by Joe Lampl The Adventures of Raising Seedlings “Off the Grid”! Great Horned Owls Updates to Maine’s […]
Read moreIs pressure treated wood safe to use in the construction of compost containers in the yard?
Question: I read the Cornell ‘Composting to Reduce the Waste Stream’ on your site. I do not like the idea it includes about using ‘pressure treated’ wood to construct compost containers in the yard. I wonder if you agree? Answer: Kate Garland, Horticultural Professional When the Cornell document was written (1991) pressure treated lumber was […]
Read moreWhat tomato varieties are recommended for Maine and what are some growing considerations?
Question: What tomato varieties would you suggest for in-ground planting? I’d like to plant 2-3 varieties for eating off the vine, and for canning BBQ sauce and salsa. Are there any other considerations for tomato growing in Maine? Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant I would suggest you do a soil test in the […]
Read moreWhat to do about black areas on peonies?
Question: In September 2021, I transplanted peony plants to a bed on the west side of our new home. They all came up, a couple even had flowers, but as time went on black areas (not spots) were seen on many of the plants. Unfortunately, I did not take a picture. I cut them down […]
Read moreIs it safe to water vegetables in well water that contains arsenic?
Question: I have arsenic in my well water. Is it safe to eat vegetables that were grown in that environment, watered with well water containing arsenic? Answer: Marjorie Peronto, Extension Educator I assume that you’ve had your water tested and know the concentration level of arsenic. As you will see in these two fact sheets, it is considered […]
Read moreHow do I test rainwater to see if it safe to water my garden with it?
Question: If I wanted to use rainwater to water my garden, how do I get my water tested to know if it’s safe? Answer: Marjorie Peronto, Extension Educator If you wish to use rainwater on your garden, you should treat it as any other surface water – not safe to drink or to wash produce […]
Read moreHow do I care for a Ficus inside my home?
Question: I am having difficulty maintaining a Ficus inside my home. I am unsure about the amount of sun, water, and fertilizer that it requires. I have observed gray spots on some leaves. I would appreciate any advice. Answer: Abi Griffith, Horticulture Community Education Assistant Following, please find a general synopsis for care of a […]
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