Winter wonderland
Although snow and ice can transform Ohio into a winter wonderland, this same snow and ice can threaten the very trees and plants they adorn.
Feb 18 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Planning garden interest in winter
I find it ironic as I sit down to write this article I am amazed by the temperature outside (high of 60 degrees), and frankly the overall weather in Ohio. The temperature preceding this heat wave included freezing rain and a severe weather advisory for the area. I hope these few days are the exceptions to this year’s winter. Although our winters in Ohio are unpredictable, it is beneficial to plan for winter interest in your garden.
Feb 11 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Will figs grow in Delaware?
Last week, the revised USDA Hardiness Zone Map was released. The revision is the first change since 1990. Most locations were moved one-half of a zone higher. The USDA attribute the changes to these criteria: They used data measured at weather stations over a 30 year period (1976–2005), while the 1990 map used data from a 13-year period (1974–1986).
Feb 4 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Seed starting: Getting a head start in the garden
Gardeners who are anxiously awaiting spring and eager to get their garden planted can get a head start by starting seeds indoors. Many homeowners head to the local nursery to purchase plants that can be transplanted directly into the garden. However, with some extra effort, it is possible to save money and grow your own flowers and produce from seed.
Jan 28 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Create a supply of ‘black gold’ — even in winter
As I have touched on already this winter, gardeners easily grow restless this time of year. Forcing bulbs inside helps but unfortunately there are few substitutes for working earth between one’s hands. There is, however, one easy project that is a fabulous way to start the summer garden in the quiet lull of winter: composting.
Jan 21 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Begin an herb garden in winter
Considering what a mild winter we have experienced so far, the thought of frigid air, howling winds and piles of snow definitely feels daunting. This is also the time of year when gardeners become restless. The memories of some of the garden’s realities like weeding and digging have softened and we all might be a little guilty of over-romanticizing the everyday chores of tending to a garden’s needs.
Jan 14 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Growing a community, one garden at a time
Interest in community gardens has reached an all-time high, but a garden could fizzle and fade unless the right training and support is provided for startup groups.
Jan 7 2012 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »
Key to starting a successful garden is a plan
At this juncture in the year, we resolve to make changes. Gym parking lots go from ghostly unoccupied in December to double-parked mania overnight, weight loss commercials abound, and your close friend who invited you to the cookie exchange three weeks ago is now preaching her new calorie-cutting lifestyle.
Dec 31 2011 | Posted in Master Gardener | Read More »