Author: Robert F. Polomski

Coastal Region- Christopher Burtt The first frost of the autumn can occur between October 15th – November 15th depending on the location. Winter protection should be done based on specific...

In the fall, I saddle up my white steed, which happens to be a 2007 hatchback, toss in several plastic trash bags and a short-handled rake, and become the Leaf Ranger. I drive through subdivisions...

You’re familiar with peaches, apples, and pears. But have you heard of pawpaws? Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is an under-appreciated native tree that can be found growing wild from northern Florida to...

Because I value potable water, I prioritize its use. Edibles and newly planted shrubs and trees, which are highly vulnerable to drought stress, earn the right to receive water from my spigot. When...

I can easily spot rose-of-Sharon or shrub althea (Hibiscus syriacus) at this time of year, even when traveling at 55 mph. This deciduous shrub flowers during the torrid months of July, August, and...

Many believe that “hydrangea hysteria” erupted in 2004 with the debut of the reblooming bigleaf hydrangea, ‘Bailmer,’ now known by its trade name of Endless Summer® The Original. Since this mophead...

I must be selective in the kinds of shrubs and trees I add to my landscape. Very simply: I don’t have the room. Like the village matchmaker, Yente, in Fiddler on the Roof, I match the plant with my...

Coastal – Laura Lee Rose Check rain gauges and run sprinklers as needed to keep grass healthy and green. One inch of irrigation can be added weekly if there isn’t sufficient rainfall. Look for any...

Did you know that Lightning Safety Awareness Week was June 19 – 25, 2022?  When you hear statements from the National Weather Service like this one: “Continuous cloud to ground lightning...

As you drink your recommended 6 to 8, 8-ounce glasses of water per day, don’t forget that your vegetable garden should also never be short of water this summer.  Did you know that water makes up 80...

You may have noticed your evergreen shrubs and trees shedding yellow and brown leaves this spring. It seems unusual, but it could be a normal leaf and needle drop. While some may believe that...