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How do I keep deer out of my vegetable garden?Some gardeners report success using products such as the repellent sprays, either homemade or commercially formulated, and there are any number of "home remedies" to discourage deer, but the only reliable method over time is to fence them out. Ortho makes a deer repellent spray that contains Bitrex, a bittering agent. |
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How do you correct the pH level of soil for high or low pH? What is neutral pH?The pH scale runs from 0 - 14, with 7 considered neutral. Numbers below 7 are acidic; numbers above alkaline. In much of the country, most plants grow in a range of 6.0 to 7.5. In addition, plants will generally tolerate some fluctuation in pH over time, with the "neutral" being a goal rather than an absolute. |
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How do you start roses from plant stems?Stems from cut rose blooms are very unlikely to root successfully. However, I'll give you a simple, effective way to root roses in case you have access to some bushes you wish to propagate. |
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How much sunlight should my plant be getting?For more information on individual plants in your area, you may want to contact your Agricultural Extension Agent. Sometimes they have Master Gardeners on hand who can answer your questions. If not, you may want to contact a nursery or even your local library. If you just purchased the plant, often the plant tags will tell you how much sunlight the plant should receive. |
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I have moles in my yard. Does that mean I have a grub problem?Many people assume that the presence of moles in their lawns mean that grubs are also present. Consequently, insecticides are applied. Application of insecticides will not solve the mole problem, however, as insects and grubs are not the primary target of the moles. The "main entree" of the mole is actually earthworms. Moles actually eat more than their own weight in earthworms on a daily basis. Elimination of earthworms is not practical. |
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I noticed my lawn has a spot in it that wasn´t there before. What is it and how do I get rid of it?The problem you are experiencing with your lawn isn't simple to solve, as it could be one of several things causing the browning/yellowing in your lawn: dog damage, insect damage, fungus/disease, overapplication of a fertilizer/control product or lack of watering. The browning/yellowing may even be due to two or more of these problems aggravating one another. |
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I planted irises last fall and only half of them bloomed. Do you know why?Bearded iris grows from rhizomes, which should be planted just at soil level. If yours were planted too deeply, they may be indicating their distress by not blooming. Wait until July or August to dig and replant them. The soil should be well-draining, with some organic matter worked in. After digging, trim the leaves to about 6 inches and place each rhizome so the top is just below the soil surface, spacing them 1-2 feet apart. |
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I´d like to learn about plant propagation. Can you tell me the basics?Taking a softwood cutting of new growth that is not yet firm is a common propagation method that works for many plants. Cuttings should be about 2 inches long, with 2-3 pairs of leaves at the top of the stem. Insert the cuttings into a soilless mix, just up to the lowest leaves. Rooting hormone may be used, but is not essential. It helps to pinch off the growing tip, which helps force more roots. If possible, place the cuttings in a covered environment (a mini greenhouse) and provide bottom heat. However, it's not always possible to get new growth cuttings in November. |
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