Question: I have eight raised beds (8′ by 4′) and all have above optimum levels for phosphorus (79.1), calcium (79.3), boron (1.5), manganese (11) and zinc (98) according to my last soil test. What I want to know is how to lower these nutrients and micronutrients to optimum levels? Answer: Caragh B. Fitzgerald, Associate Extension […]
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In This Issue: January Is the Month to . . . Sightings: Vole Runways Evening Grosbeak A Review of The Earth Knows My Name: Food, Culture, and Sustainability in the Gardens of Ethnic Americans by Patricia Elindienst (Beacon Press, 2006) Wabanaki Writings Reader Exchange January Is the Month to . . . By Kate Garland, […]
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Question: I have an area about 200 square feet where we cut, treated and then scraped out knotweed this fall. We know it will be a constant battle to try to completely eradicate for the next few years but would like to replant the area with something native and invasive-ish to help with squeezing out […]
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Question: My question is about garlic, and I’m late in asking it! For various reasons, I planted some garlic very late this year – maybe in early June. The crop did not reach maturity this past growing season; no scapes emerged, and the bulbs were larger but still single. I’ve had this garlic for close to 10 […]
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Question: I am interested in planting a shrub or two in my yard that will attract multiple kinds of birds. I would prefer the shrub to grow no taller than 8 feet in height. My yard has sunny and shady areas. Do you have any suggestions? Answer: Vina Lindley, Food Systems and Home Horticulture Professional […]
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In This Issue: Titles to Inspire Young Gardeners Wreaths and Garlands — Check Before You Buy Eastern Bluebird Tips for Growing Houseplants in Maine Series Send Holiday Cheer, Not Pests: Follow Out-Of-State Plant Health Regulations Practical Gifts for the Gardener on Your List Titles to Inspire Young Gardeners By Kate Garland, Horticulturist; Michelle Wright, RSU […]
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Question: I would like to know the proper way to overwinter plants I’m propagating. I have one pot with five Cardinal Flowers (to divide for a Spring plant sale), two pots with ornamental shrubs (from cuttings made last Spring), and three pots with apple rootstock (less than a pencil width that were pulled and potted […]
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Question: My onions have been hanging in the shed but now it’s getting cold and I’m afraid they will freeze. Last year when I brought them in they all got condensation inside the skins and eventually rotted. (This had never happened before,) what to do now? I don’t have a really cool area in the […]
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Question: Is it good to leave fallen leaves in the garden over the winter? Is it beneficial? When can they be raked up in the spring? Answer: Viña Lindley, Food Systems & Home Horticulture Professional Absolutely, leaves make a great mulch since they’re free, readily available, and full of nutrients that release slowly over time. […]
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Question: Should asparagus plants be cut back in the fall after they’ve turned yellow? I read that they should be cut just under the top of the soil, but wanted to confirm this information. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Once the asparagus tops have yellowed their work is done for the […]
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