The USDA released its new Plant Hardiness Zone Map (PHZM) in mid-November, 2023, updated from the 2012 map. The big news is that the 2023 map generally shows temperatures about 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than the 2012 map across the…
Fall is upon us, bringing with it the ideal time to add trees to our landscapes. In addition to providing shade and beauty, increasing tree cover in our community provides a host of environmental, economic and health benefits. According to…
Climate change is bringing us periods of drought and periods of more excessive rainfalls as well as higher temperatures. Heat stress causes greater water demands in your garden, but you should irrigate only when rainfall is inadequate. How do you…
Do weeds tend to take over in your vegetable garden? You’re not alone. More time is spent on trying to control weeds than any other home gardening activity, especially if you let the weeds get a head start. If left…
Without support, tomatoes grow as vines snaking along the ground. They’ll grow just fine, but leaves and fruit will touch the soil, making them wet and susceptible to disease. This post will discuss a few common methods for supporting tomatoes….
During Native Plant Month in April, folks in Virginia and across the nation can celebrate by planting native trees, shrubs, perennials, vines and grasses to establish habitats that allow our birds, pollinators, and all wildlife to thrive. Incorporating native plants…
It’s that time of year when lawnmowers come out of hibernation. But in a growing number of communities, the mowers are still lying about doing nothing. Why? Because of a No Mow movement taking hold around the U.S. It’s not…
According to Virginia Cooperative Extension, a typical homesite with about 2,300 square feet of roof and pavement will send more than 62,000 gallons of runoff into the surrounding watershed each year. If unchecked, the stormwater flowing off roofs and driveways…
This spring, when we relaunch our Healthy Virginia Lawns and Healthy Landscape programs, the Piedmont Master Gardeners will advise households on how they can reduce the environmental footprint of their yards and gardens. This includes pet waste, particularly dog poop…
The Christmas tree in your home was grown with a purpose. It was planted and nurtured until it was big enough to sell. It was then cut down and hauled to our local towns, where families carefully pick the perfect…