Managing invasive plants in Virginia is crucial for preserving the state's native ecosystems and biodiversity. Invasive plants have the potential to outcompete native species for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, leading to a decline in native plant populations. This disruption can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, impacting wildlife habitat, soil health, ...
Virginia Cooperative Extension – Hanover Unit is home to our Master Gardener Help Desk. Volunteers answer your gardening questions, whether it be about vegetables, turf, weeds, ornamentals, trees and shrubs, insect damage, plant disease…you name it. We provide only research-based information, and we discuss this information with the homeowner. We welcome your questions. by phone …
As gardeners, we have the seemingly endless task of improving and maintaining the health of our soil. Composting is a commonly used strategy. But this is a labor-intensive task. The novice gardener will quickly realize it is difficult to make enough compost for even a small garden. And anyone with physical limitations may find building …
Hanover master gardener David Sumner has spent many years learning and experimenting with growing fruits in his Central Virginia garden. In this article, he shares the six easy fruits to grow and will provide delicious fruit for you and your family for years. As Master Gardeners, we are often asked for advice on how to …
So, here’s the deal: those fancy plants you see in most home gardens? They’re not doing much for our local bugs and critters. Our native insects have grown up with our native plants, and they need them to eat and live out their life cycles. And guess what? Our songbirds need those insects to survive …
Materials needed Opaque, flexible plastic bin, approximately 18 x 20 x 15 inches Shredded newspaper Water Compost or soil (a few handfuls) Drill with 1/4 inch bit Red wiggler worms that are given away by Hanover Master Gardeners or sold in bait shops or over the internet (do not use earthworms) To make bin Drill …
Although 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 addition some ...
So you want to start a garden? Congratulations! What a joy! The good news is that you’re about to start a process that connects you to your neighbors, good teachers, wonderful peers, and to some of the Earth’s plants, bugs and microorganisms. The bad news is that you are jumping into a sea of information …
By addressing these tasks in December, you’ll ensure that your garden remains protected during the winter months and be well-prepared for the gardening season ahead. Flower Beds, Trees, and Shrubs: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to insulate roots against freezing temperatures. This is especially important for newly …
By tending to these tasks in November, you’ll help your garden transition smoothly into winter and set the stage for a successful and vibrant garden in the following spring. Flower Beds, Trees, and Shrubs: Remove remaining dead plant material, including annuals and spent perennials. Cut back ornamental grasses. Top-dress your perennial beds with a layer …