Powdery mildew is the name given to a group of diseases caused by several closely related fungi. Their common symptom is a grayish-white, powdery mat visible on the surface of leaves, stems, and flower petals. There are many hosts, and although this … [Read more...]
About Butterflies
“Splendor awaits in minute proportions” – E.O. Wilson, Biologist The ephemeral beauty of the butterfly and the peculiarity of its life cycle symbolize transformation in nature and the passage of time. In some languages, the word for “butterfly” is … [Read more...]
Five Things You May Not Know About . . . Virginia’s official pollinator
You may have heard Virginia now has an official state pollinator – the European honey bee (Apis mellifera). How, you ask, did the EUROPEAN honey bee get the designation? What about our natives? CONTINUE SOURCE: Master Gardeners of Northern … [Read more...]
Pond Ecology
A brief overview of the natural processes of an earthen pond and how to maintain a healthy pond. Read more: Source: … [Read more...]
10 Easy Steps to Prevent Common Garden Diseases [fact sheet]
Start with a clean planting site, free of last year’s crop debris. Debris from the previous season’s crops may harbor diseases, weeds and insects. Continued: … [Read more...]
Pruning Flowering Shrubs
The correct time to prune your flowering shrubs depends on when they flower. Read more: SOURCE: … [Read more...]
Red Mulberry
Red Mulberry Morus Rubra (MOR-us ROO-brah) Your local birds and small mammals will be delighted if you decide to add Red Mulberry to yourlandscape! The blackberry-like fruit will also please the humans in your life. They can be eatenfresh from the … [Read more...]
Tomatoes: From Seedlings to Fruit
Learn how to plant and nurture tomato plants in your garden. This article includes advice on fertilizing, irrigating, mulching, and supporting tomato plants. Read More: Source: … [Read more...]
American Holly
American Holly - Ilex opaca (EE-leks oh-PAY-kah) Common Name(s): American Holly, Holly, Winterberry In the 4 years I’ve lived in Bedford County I haven’t seen any Cedar Waxwings which causes me sadness although this is probably for the best … [Read more...]
Why Virginia Natives are the Best Choice
Whether you want to put in a flower garden or establish or restore the landscape around your home, there are a great variety of Virginia native plants from which to choose! Native plants not only offer many practical, low cost, and environmental … [Read more...]