Frequently Asked Questions

What are the things I should avoid when taking care of my garden?
Overwatering Most new gardeners think that the more water the better when usually, just the opposite is true. Take the time to learn exactly what the water needs of you plant is and count to 10 before turning on the hose. If you are watering anything daily you are probably watering too much.

Plant Lust New gardeners would do well to avoid the "I just gotta have it!!!" syndrome. Purchasing plants that require a growing environment you cannot possibly provide is not only costly but frustrating. Going to a nursery is like going to the grocery store. Make sure you have a list first, and stick to the list!

Overcrowding Overcrowding plants doesn't do it any favors. Plants need room to breathe and good air circulation. They also need light to reach them and planting too densely blocks the plants ability to reach it's full potential. Overcrowding stresses plants and makes them more prone to disease.

Can I plant just any plant in my garden?
Not Knowing Your Zone We all move at sometimes and when you planted in Illinois isn't the time to plant in Florida or vice versa. June maybe the peak of gardening season in New York but it isn't in southern California. Again, local gardeners, your county AG agent and local nurseries are a good source of information.

Should I fertilize?
Fertilizing More is not always better, often it is worse. Take the time to learn the nutrient needs of your plants and the differences in various kinds and levels of fertilizer. If you feed your tomatoes nothing but fish emulsion you will have lovely big, green plants. But no tomatoes. If you feed your roses lots of nitrogen rich fertilizer you will have lots of lovely rose leaves. But nary a rose.

Are all bugs bad for my plants?
Those new to gardening often feel that "the only good bug is a dead bug." NOT TRUE. A healthy garden will always have a population of insect life GOOD and BAD. The key is balance. Remember, the garden isn't your house, it is theirs and most of the insects in the flower bed and vegetable garden are good guys. They may nibble on the occasional leaf or bud but they more than earn their keep by eating up the bad guys and providing pollination services. Less than 5% of the various insects, beetles, spiders, worms and caterpillars, etc., are true pests so "nukeing" the garden with pesticides often does far more harm than good.