Q: Can I make a raised-bed garden without removing the grass? A: Yes. Here's how: Cut the grass very short. Lay wet newspapers, carpet or bed liners over the grass. Mix peat moss and manure and spread over the area. Spread topsoil over that. You're ready to plant!
Q: I want to plant blueberries but have been told I need to plant at least two different species in order for them to produce fruit. Why?
A: That's true; it will give your blueberries a long harvest and better pollination.
Q: My mailbox is in a shady area of the yard. I would like to grow a perennial vine to wind up around the post. Is there a good one for shade?
A: Three come immediately to mind: honeysuckle, mandevilla (or Brazilian jasmine) and climbing hydrangea. But be careful: make that area too nice, and your mail carrier just might want to stay!
Q: I'm trying to grow Gerbera daisies like the beautiful cut flowers I see at the florist. My daisies are pretty, but they are not producing long-stemmed flowers. Am I doing something wrong?
A: Maybe this will help: The optimum growing conditions for gerbera daisies include full sun and rich soil with good drainage; the correct temperature should be between 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night and 75 degrees during the day. They also like afternoon shade. Be sure to water thoroughly, let the soil dry completely, then soak again. Gerberas need frequent feeding during the growing season. Be vigilant about pinching off old leaves and flowers regularly, and protect them from snails.
