So often folks find a tree they like and then everyone plants it and then that’s all you see.  And then they get taken out by disease and our boulevards are naked.  Planting diverse species is the best way to protect them all. Plant this not that, take 2

This is one of my favorite times of year... planting my annuals in containers! But it can also be overwhelming. If you get plant-love overload at your local nursery, it can  make it difficult to choose plants!  There are some basic rules to follow that will help you create that eye-popper every time.

Tomatoes and peppers like warm soil. And who doesn't? Think about putting your toes in warm sand... or soil! It’s an exciting time to get our most favored vegetable garden plants in the ground! What are some of the best practices when planting these warm season crops? 

Since we discussed watering newly planted trees and shrubs I thought I would go a little further today.  We talk a lot about sun/shade conditions and soil types but one thing we don’t always check on when pursuing our favorite plants is whether they like dry feet or wet feet. It's important to know who likes what!

As I discussed trees yesterday, I wanted to talk about watering newly planted trees and shrubs. They need regular and consistent watering until root systems establish. Root systems of bare root, containerized, and balled and burlapped trees and shrubs have been severely reduced or restricted by nursery management practices. Learn best practices on today's show. 

My favorite arborist, Faith Appelquist, shared her thoughts on the worst trees for planting. Tree selection is a big deal, they’re an investment in dollars and time.  There are lots of considerations, one of those is the mature size of the tree you select. Learn more on today's Garden Bite with some good selections!

As more and more folks are interested in their outdoor spaces, privacy is an issue that’s come up. Aside from building a fence, which, at this time with lumber prices through the roof, may not be desirable, a friendly fence may be! What are some of the best "friendly" fences for our zone 4 climate

Tis tick season! Deer ticks and wood ticks are the most common, both of which are annoying blood sucking pests, however, the deer tick , also known as the black legged tick, is a whole other issue as they’re a vector for Lyme Disease and other diseases. Learn more about how to identify them and avoid them. 

I’ve never been one to add a lot of chemicals to my gardens. I‘ve always felt that  taking care of the soil by using compost and manure with the occasional milorganite (which adds nitrogen) has been good enough.  But, really, to boost the bloom and get the foliage flashing -  fertilizing is the ticket.  So here are some tips on fertilizing for annuals and perennials.

While some of you may have already done this…. Gladiolas, dahlias and cannas are bulbs we in cold climates can plant now for summer bloom! Alliums, oriental lilies, begonias and bulbs I can’t pronounce are also on that list. How and when to plant and a new dahlia for 2021 on today's Garden Bite!