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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Question: How do I store carrots long term in my basement? Do I need to cover them with anything? Answer: Carrots should be stored with their tops removed in a cold (32°F) and humid (98-100% relative humidity) storage condition. In order to achieve high humidity, you will probably need to store your carrots in a […]
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In this edition of Victory Garden for ME, learn how to prepare your garden soil for the growing season by testing your soil, amending your soil based on soil test results, adding organic matter (if needed) and much more! Helpful Tips and Resources: The basics of soil testing and reading a soil test are in […]
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In this edition of Victory Garden for ME, learn how to plan your garden based on your family’s food preferences, plans for preserving your produce, when vegetables can be safely planted outside, succession planting techniques and more! Gardening Resources: Planting Chart for the Home Vegetable Garden Vegetable Varieties for Maine Gardens Succession Planting, Cumberland County […]
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In This Issue: May Is the Month to . . . Conway Homestead Garden in Camden: A Dream Come True A Review of The Moth Snowstorm by Michael McCarthy (2015) Bees of Maine: Family Megachilidae Advice for the Transplanted Gardener Growing Potatoes in Grow Bags Building an Accessible V-Bed Garden Learning Opportunities for Maine Gardeners […]
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In this edition of Victory Garden for ME, learn about how to select and prepare your garden site, evaluate your soil conditions and garden in small spaces with raised beds and containers. Resources: Soil Texture by Feel, UC Davis (video) Know Your Soil: Lead in Soil, Bulletin #2281 Vegetable Gardens and Septic Fields Don’t Mix, […]
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Question: I am looking for several fairly low growing shrubs that will tolerate shade and preferably flower and attract birds. I want to separate my planned shade garden from my shady wilderness. Answer: I would suggest going with a Viburnum for your site, especially if you are interested in attracting birds and other wildlife. Maple-leaf […]
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In This Issue: April Is the Month to . . . Meet Your Farmers: Peter and Julie Beckford of Rebel Hill Farm, Liberty, Maine Pruning Raspberries and Blackberries The Garden Primer Tiny Swede Midge Causes Big Crop Damage in Maine Family Apidae, Bees of Maine A Note from the Editor Monthly features: What Is It? […]
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Question: Need a recommendation for the best time to plant determinate tomato seeds for transplanting into containers. We are located in Phippsburg, Maine. Answer: In our climate, we need to start all types of tomatoes indoors and then transplant them outside after the risk of frost has passed. So, you’ll need an estimate of when […]
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Question: My vegetable garden this year was taken over by Verdolaga (pigweed) to a point where I did not enjoy my garden. Is there anything I can do now to help me next year? I don’t mind weeding, but this year was awful, I just couldn’t keep up with this weed. Answer: At this point, […]
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