by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – You may have heard of jumping worms, sometimes referred to as “snake worms.” Worm castings that resemble coffee grounds on the soil’s surface are likely the first thing you’ll notice. Jumping worms (Amynthas agrestis, Amynthas tokioensis[Read More…]

by Bonnie Kirn Donahue, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont NORTHFIELD – One of the great joys and challenges of gardening is seeing creatures inhabit and eat from our gardens. However, in some cases, animals and insects are unwelcome visitors. Woodchucks, deer and cabbage worms can be relentless and frustrating[Read More…]

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – In 2019 a British non-profit called Plantlife coined the phrase “No Mow May.” They proposed that gardeners leave their mowers in storage for the month of May in order to let wildflowers and weeds bloom and provide pollen and nectar for pollinators. And[Read More…]

by Andrea Knepper, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont BOLTON – Many gardeners find ways to invite beneficial insects into their spaces by planting native pollinator plants, mulching and avoiding pesticide use. Another way to support a healthy beneficial insect community is a bug hotel. Bug hotels provide a variety[Read More…]

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – I like to have blossoms in the garden and in vases everywhere. I try to have something blooming all the time or as often as possible. Right now, in mid-April, I count more than 10 species of plants in bloom, along with seven[Read More…]

by Dr. Vern Grubinger, Extension Vegetable and Berry Specialist, University of Vermont BURLINGTON – Blueberries are a popular backyard fruit. Once established, they will provide lots of delicious, healthy berries for many decades with proper care. To succeed with blueberries, plant winter-hardy varieties and maintain soil pH between 4.5 and[Read More…]

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Are you in a rut? Spring is here, but most of us cannot plant anything outdoors due to cold nights or wet ground. Yes, you can plant seeds indoors and baby them until early summer, but that requires a place to grow them[Read More…]

by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont BURLINGTON – It’s finally spring (never mind any snow still on the ground). Daffodils have emerged, their buds anxious to open. Soon tulips (Tulipa), perhaps the most anticipated flowers of spring, will grace front yards and town squares. Tulips are[Read More…]

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Although I still have some snow around the house here in Cornish, many of you may be looking at brown grass and mud. It will be some time before real spring weather is safely ensconced. We all want to get outside and enjoy[Read More…]

by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Early spring is a good time to look at the trees and shrubs on your property when you are not distracted by flowers and leaves. Study your “woodies” now to see if they need some care, and if some plants need to be[Read More…]

by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont NORTH ADAMS, Mass.– Spring may be upon us, but winter is reluctant to let go. In the meantime, we’re all eagerly awaiting the time when we can head back to our gardens and get them into shape for the coming[Read More…]