March 31, 1993
Tips for Earlier Yields in the Home Vegetable Garden
Most home gardeners are anxious for that first ripe tomato or early muskmelon. Gardeners who sell produce at local farmers' markets also strive for the earliest crop possible because early produce often brings better prices at the market.
There are several techniques gardeners can use to hasten growth and production in vegetable plants. Listed below are a few ideas you may want to try this year.
Reminder to Beekeepers about Using Miticides in Beehives
The following warning comes from Bob Cox, State Apiarist with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
A Rose is a Rose
Roses are grown by millions of gardeners throughout the world for their beautiful flowers. To reduce the confusion of selecting between thousands of rose varieties, roses are classified in various groups. The broadest classification separates them into species and shrub roses; old garden roses; and modern roses.
Rotation Restrictions for Vegetable Gardens
Every year I receive several calls from people wanting to know whether or not they can plant a garden in an area that was field corn last year. My first question for them is related to the herbicide application. What herbicide was applied? Generally, this information is easy to obtain. However, the response I give may not be as easy to deal with because of herbicide rotation restrictions.
Made in the Shade
Shady areas present problems, but also provide opportunities for home gardeners. Wise plant selection can turn a shady problem site into an attractive area in the home landscape. There are a number of trees and shrubs that can be successfully grown in partial shade. (Partially shaded sites receive a few hours of direct sun, but are shaded much of the day.)