Very few gardeners are in the lucky position to have ideal soil—rich in nutrients and well-draining yet holding enough water so that the plants can absorb it. But soil is not static, there is a lot you can do as a gardener to improve it thanks to … [Read more...]
A Guide to Dividing Perennials
By definition, plant division is a form of vegetative propagation where each divided piece is capable of producing roots and shoots. This important gardening job is not as daunting as you may think; just follow a few principles that answer the … [Read more...]
Asian Needle Ant, Brachyponera (=Pachycondyla) chinensis
Invasive Pests Invasive pests (plants, insects, diseases, and others) cause enormous economic damage, as well as environmental damage. These displace or destroy beneficial and native plants and animals, reduce biodiversity. The annual economic … [Read more...]
Cole Crop Plants – When To Plant Cole Crops
Cole crops are a common sight in the home garden, especially in cooler weather, but some gardeners may not know what cole crops are. Whether you know what cole crop plants are or not, chances are you enjoy them on a regular basis. … [Read more...]
COVER CROPS IN RAISED BEDS
What should you do with raised beds in the winter after the edible and floral fall crops are done, or for those couple months between summer and fall plantings? Plant cover crops, of course! Continue SOURCE: Clemson Cooperative Extension … [Read more...]
American Burnweed, Erechtites hieraciifolius
Recently, while driving on a country roads here in Bedford County, I passed through an area where it almost seemed like it was "snowing"! There were numerous little white, hairy orbs gently floating on the air. They were actually seeds from a plant … [Read more...]
Problem-free Shrubs for Virginia Landscapes
The most effective form of plant disease control in the landscape is prevention. Disease prevention can be as simple as choosing the right palnt for the right place at planting time. CONTINUE SOURCE: Virginia Tech Extension Publications … [Read more...]
Beech Leaf Disease
Invasive Pests Invasive pests (plants, insects, diseases, and others) cause enormous economic damage, as well as environmental damage. These displace or destroy beneficial and native plants and animals, reduce biodiversity. The annual … [Read more...]
Rose Diseases (Outdoors)
Informational table showing disease name, symptoms, pathogen/cause, and management of Rose Diseases (Outdoors) diseases. MORE SOURCE: Penn State Extension … [Read more...]
Rose Growers Beware: Good News, Bad News, and Some More Good News
Roses have been a beautiful and fragrant part of our garden palette for thousands of years. Humans have cultivated roses for their medicinal properties, for the floral trade, and for beautifying our public and private gardens. CONTINUE SOURCE: … [Read more...]