Author archives

How to Test Your Soil pH

Testing the soil pH

Soil is the foundation of any garden. It provides essential nutrients, water, and support for plants. Healthy soil is teeming with microorganisms that help break down organic matter, making nutrients available to plants. Key aspects of soil health include: Soil Structure: Good soil structure allows for proper air and water movement, which is vital for …

How Hanover Master Gardeners Serves the Community

In 2025, our goal is to develop community programs that focus on the following: Preserving and promoting farm and forest lands: Provide workshops on conservation programs. Protecting Natural resources: Create educational information and workshops that support conservation and provide general gardening, turf, and landscaping education. Strengthening the local food system: Incorporate the Buy Local campaign …

What to look for to harvest vegetables at their best?

How to know when veggies are ready to harvest

You’ve worked hard preparing your garden, planting seeds, pulling weeds, watering, fertilizing, and waiting. When can you finally enjoy your garden’s bounty? Each crop has its own peak ripeness and best time to be picked. Here are some general guidelines and specifics for vegetables I grow in my garden. Generally, it’s best to harvest early …

Sumac

sumac

Rhus Mature Size:  up to 25 feet tall, with short trunks and spreading branches. The Native Sumac Shrub is found primarily in dry sandy or rocky forests, edges, and clearings.  The shrub and small tree were found by an invasive Callery Pear tree not far from the nearby Cannery building.  Leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, 12-24 …

Black Cherry

Black Cherry Trees

Prunus serotina Mature Size:60 to 100 feet in height, and 1 to 4 feet in diameter The Black Cherry trees located here were uncovered after the Chinese Privet was removed along the perimeter of the Sweet Gum tree.  This tree grows on many sites that are not very wet or dry.  Leaves are alternate, simple …

GROWING MUSHROOMS & BOKASHI COMPOSTING

Growing mushrooms and Bokashi composting workshop on Nov 16 Join us on November 16 for two amazing presentations. Learn more about growing mushrooms and Bokashi composting. Discover the joy of cultivating mushrooms at home—it's cost-effective, eco-friendly, and a fun learning experience!  By growing your own, you can enjoy gourmet varieties like shiitake, lion's mane, oyster, and cremini without breaking the bank at the store ...