by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – Spring is just around the corner. With its arrival, bluebirds will be returning north from their winter migration to the southeastern United States and Mexico. If you’re lucky, they’ll pay a visit to your yard. While bluebirds likely won’t[Read More…]
In the Garden
Propagating Dogwoods and Willows
by Bonnie Kirn Donahue, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont Looking for versatile, native shrubs? Look no further than willows (Salix spp.) and dogwood (Cornus spp.). Both species are exceptional landscape plants. They have strong roots that can help secure steep banks and prevent erosion. They grow in tough conditions,[Read More…]
Cold Frames Extend the Season
by Andrea Knepper, Extension Master Gardener BOLTON – Cold frames allow for the early planting of spring vegetables such as lettuce, radishes, carrots and cabbage by protecting them from frost and cold temperatures at the beginning of the season. You can construct a season-extending cold frame for your garden with an[Read More…]
Vanilla is a Tropical Treat
by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – Most of us recognize that little brown bottle on the spice shelf that imparts a wonderful fragrance and flavor to baked goods and beverages. It’s a staple in our kitchens, but have you ever wondered where[Read More…]
Identifying Trees in Winter
by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Most of us enjoy knowing the names of our acquaintances including trees. It’s tougher to identify trees in winter because most have no leaves, which is how we generally recognize trees. But by observing overall shape, bark, branching patterns, buds and the presence[Read More…]
The Most Important Garden Tool
CABOT – Last February, I wrote about “showing love” to your garden tools: keeping them clean, sharp, oiled, painted and always stored under cover. This February, I want to talk about the care of your most important tool: you! Gardening is fun and rewarding. It’s also physically demanding. In the[Read More…]
Winter Survival Tips for Gardeners
by Nadie VanZandt PANTON – Gazing out your window on a wintry day, you might think that springtime is a distant prospect, but there are many activities you can do this winter to get ready for spring. Do you have old seed packets tucked away? Organizing them will make planning your spring[Read More…]
Check Trees for Signs of ALB
by Ginger Nickerson, Extension Forest Pest Education Coordinator, University of Vermont BURLINGTON – When working in their sugarbush this winter, maple producers are encouraged to be on the lookout for signs of the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB). This wood-boring insect, native to southeast Asia, will kill many hardwood trees. However,[Read More…]
Valentine Flowers Have Special Meanings
by Deborah J. Benoit, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show those we care for just how much they mean to us. Often, that means a gift of flowers. Throughout history flowers have held special meanings, making a gift[Read More…]
Growing and Eating Cardoon
by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Most years I start some onion seeds and perhaps a few artichokes indoors in February; this year I will also start some cardoon seeds at the same time. Cardoon, which is a lovely looking plant related to artichokes, is a delicious vegetable, too.[Read More…]
Growing Perennials from Seed
by Amy Simone, Extension Master Gardener, University of Vermont SOUTH BURLINGTON – Many gardeners start vegetables, annual flowers and herbs from seeds, either indoors or directly in the garden. However, have you ever considered growing your own perennials from seed? Perennial plants are defined as plants that live for[Read More…]
Gardening with Kids
by Henry Homeyer CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – If you’re a gardener, chances are that you had a parent or grandparent that introduced you to the joys of gardening. I was introduced to gardening by my maternal grandfather, John Lenat, of Spencer, Mass. He was an organic gardener and a wise[Read More…]
