Beneath every step we take, within the seemingly inert soil, lies an astonishingly complex and vibrant universe: the soil microbiome. This microscopic metropolis, teeming with life, is far more than just dirt. It is a dynamic ecosystem, a … [Read more...]
Organic Matter and Soil Amendments
Soil amendments are materials applied to or mixed into the topsoil to change or change soil properties and improve plant growth. For example, compost improves soil structure and lime increases soil pH. Most soil amendments supply some plant nutrients … [Read more...]
What to do with Leaves in the Fall
As we head into fall, leaves start to change color from green to yellows, red, orange, and purple. Eventually the colors will fade and the leaves will fall to the ground. Read More: … [Read more...]
Reducing tillage in your garden
We often talk about tilling as a yes or no question: to till, or not to till? But tilling intensity can vary from no soil disturbance at all to intensive soil disturbance. Continued: Source: … [Read more...]
Dealing with pumpkins after Halloween: Debunking social media advice
As the calendar turns from October to November, toothy Jack-o’-lanterns start to look like deflated basketballs. This means millions of Americans need to dispose of billions of pumpkins. While many people toss these festive yet mushy winter squash … [Read more...]
Fall leaves – to bag or not? Turf experts explain why mulching leaves is a better solution
October is peak season for admiring fall foliage and soon those leaves will begin to fall, if they haven’t already done so. Before you start to clean them up, Virginia Tech turf experts suggest that you try a different approach instead of bagging and … [Read more...]
Guide to Soil Amendments: What They Are and How to Use Them
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...]
Best Plants for Clay Soil
What grows well in clay soil? Dense clay soil is common in yards across the country. This can seem like a challenge at first, but we’re here to help! With some simple amendments and the right plants, you can transform your yard with beautiful plants. … [Read more...]
From the Help Desk – Weed Control in the Fall
QUESTION Client requested identification and control recommendations for a weed in the lawn and in ornamental beds. DIAGNOSIS / RECOMMENDATION The specific weed is oxalis (yellow wood sorrel). This is not the proper time of year for … [Read more...]
Soil Health in Raised Beds
By selecting the contents of the raised bed, soil properties like texture, drainage, and organic matter content can be controlled. A soil and compost mix is recommended, at a ratio of 70% soil to 30% compost. Make sure that both the soil and compost … [Read more...]