Monthly archives: February, 2023

Gardening Basics

Gardening Basics Month-by-Month Gardening ChoresAlthough Spring and Summer seem to be the most intense times for gardening there are chores that can be done each and every month. Check out the tips below for gardening in Hanover, planting zone 7b, to extend your garden to all seasons, maintain a healthy lawn, flower beds, trees and shrubs. In ...

Native Plants

Native plants What’s All the Buzz About Natives? I had never considered the important role that native plants play in our surroundings.  However, in preparation for a Master Gardener presentation, I quickly discovered my ignorance regarding this fundamental aspect of gardening. In fact, I learned that by incorporating native plants you can reduce your time and effort ...

Pollinators

Pollinators in the garden

Relationship Between Plants and Pollinators Plants and their pollinators have this awesome relationship where they both benefit each other. The pollinator gets to enjoy yummy treats like nectar and pollen from the flower, while the plant gets to spread its pollen around as the pollinator goes from one flower to another. This helps the plant …

Pests and Diseases

Plant pests and diseases

How to Manage your Landscape Using Fewer Pesticides Create cultural conditions that benefit your plants. Know plants you have in the yard Get a soil test Learn optimal conditions for your plants (pH, light, and water requirements) When planting choose the right plant for the right place Avoid insecticides to encourage beneficial predatory insects Encourage …

Kitchen Gardening

Creating a kitchen garden

Selecting and storing farmer’s market bargains Herb Hints – tips for growing, harvesting, storing, and using herbs Easy to Grow Fruits in Central Virginia  –Learn how to grow these six easy fruits in your central Virginia garden that will provide delicious fruit for you and your family for years. Options for Extending the Growing Season …

Soil and Compost

Creating good soil and compost

Understanding Your Soil Sample Report – help with interpreting the results How to Make a Worm Bin – Grow red wigglers who will turn your garbage into great fertilizer for your plants. Three Bin Composting System – Make a three bin system using pallets. How to Get Started in Composting – Learn how to set up a composting …