News and Articles

A microclimate is an area that continually has a different climate than the greater regional climate. On a grand scale, this phenomenon is exemplified by the urban heat island effect. The urban heat island effect is caused by the excess pavement absorbing, reflecting, and releasing heat energy making urban areas hotter than the surrounding countryside. Microclimates can be on a smaller scale as well. In your garden microclimates can be created by walls, trees, and pavement.Building a small...

First, you must determine the composition of your soil before you amend it. The best way to determine what to add to your soil is to have it analyzed by an expert. Pennsylvania State University has an Agricultural Research and Extension Center in most counties. They can recommend amendments based on the results of the test.Slightly acidic soil around 6.5 pH, is best for most plants, though there are exceptions. Adding decaying organic matter raises the acidity of your soil, and because of this...

Annuals are plants that grow, flower, produce seeds, and die in one growing season. They are inexpensive, easy to grow and provide a great, big, splash of color. Most annuals provide a longer-lasting flowering display than perennials or bulbs. A wonderful variety can be purchased from any Lowe’s, Home Depot, or local garden shop. Annuals are usually sold in “flats” consisting of about 12 plants. When purchasing avoid plants that are already in full bloom. Plants in full bloom will take longer...

When the long, cold winter begins approaching in October it is a good idea to start your winter projects. I have heard many gardening enthusiasts lamenting the fact that they never give themselves enough time to complete their projects before the long snowy seasons hits. So here is a list (in no way is this comprehensive!) of projects and things to think about before the snow hits. It is a good idea to add 2”-3” of mulch around your trees and shrubs to protect their roots from the temperature...

With the record-setting amounts of rain, we’ve had in the past few weeks keeping lawns cut has been challenging. But with all this rain there are many benefits, soft soil being one. September and October are the prime months to core aerate and oversee your lawn. Core aeration and overseeding provide visible benefits to your lawn above ground and stimulate root growth below the soil. By aerating the lawn, you are breaking up compaction in the soil which allows water and air to move about,...

By far, roses are some of the most difficult and rewarding flowering shrubs to grow. Rose colors can range from white, yellow, orange, pink, and red. Some of the most popular rose types are:Bush Roses: these roses tend to grow quickly and abundantly. Many, are more disease resistant than the hybrid teas, floribunda, and Grandiflora varieties. Creeping Roses: these tend to grow fairly quickly and lay closer to the ground.Climbing Roses: These roses climb like a vine and include the Georgia...