Category «Articles»

House Plants

House plant recommendations These are some of the house plants our master gardeners grow and love.  Read about their characteristics and care to find the right plant for your home. Arrowhead Plant House Plant – 6-12 inches Arrowhead vine is named for its heart-shape foliage. Every few weeks, this tropical plant unfurls medium green leaves splashed with white, ...

Gardening as we age

Gardening as we age

As we age, many of us find ourselves seeking new hobbies that provide both enjoyment and purpose. Gardening is an excellent activity that can offer numerous benefits, including increased physical activity, improved mental health, and a sense of accomplishment. However, as we get older, gardening can become more challenging, requiring modifications and adaptations to ensure …

New Song United Methodist Church Grant

Community Garden Grant in Hanover is a success! In a time of uncertainty and trepidation, New Song United Methodist Church wanted to create a Community Garden. Not only did they want to provide fresh produce for those in need, but also a sense of unity and friendship for our neighbors. For each grant, we have a Master …

Pollinators

Pollinators in the garden

Native Bee Presentation – Mason and Leafcutter – Native bees serve an important role as pollinators.  Learn more about two of Virginia’s native bees – the Mason and Leaf Cutter bees. Resources for Native Bees – Learn more about native bees in our area. Bee Loss in Virginia – There was a 60% loss of bee population …

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 Orchard  – Many of the typical fruits are difficult to grow in our region. Here are some alternatives you might like to try. Options for Extending the Growing Season – Links to articles about cold frames, row covers, and …

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 fertalizer 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 …

How to Add Native Plants to your Hanover Landscape

Join the movement to incorporate more native plants into home landscapes. As we humans continue to alter the landscape by building sterile sub-divisions, business parks and shopping centers, we destroy the habit that is need for our birds, mammals and invertebrates.  Native plants are critical for wildlife survival and even our own.  Sadly, we have ...