Soil pH is an often-overlooked component of soil fertility. While nutrient deficiencies of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and micronutrients can restrict plant growth, an out-of-range...
This hole was most likely made by a melonworm. A hole this size is actually an exit hole chewed by the worm on its way out to pupate. Before that, the worm was inside the bloom feeding on the...
Coastal Region Zack Snipes Strawberries were on everyone’s mind last week and again this week. We are in full swing of planting. To say I am underwhelmed at the plugs we have received is an...
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...
Pink Turtlehead (Chelone lyonii) is a native fall-blooming perennial that grows best in organically rich soil in the sun to part shade. In its natural habitat, pink turtlehead is found in wet wooded...
This squash is showing abnormal growth, known as fasciation. Fasciation is the abnormal development of a meristem or growing point. The cause of this condition is not well understood but is most...
I love this time of year when the roadsides and gardens become full of gold. Goldenrod is everywhere! It brightens the landscape and lifts my mood. Goldenrod comes in all different shapes, sizes,...
The white, cottony masses covering the small branches on this American beech tree, Fagus grandifolia, are beech blight aphid nymphs. The nymph’s abdomen is covered with a white, cottony mass of waxy...
The light-colored discoloration on these zucchini plant leaves is known as Squash Silverleaf Disorder (SSL) and is the result of immature whiteflies feeding on the squash leaves. SSL reduces the...
Coastal Region Zack Snipes A bit chilly this morning, with the temperature at 50 °F. The dry weather in October has really prevented the spread of black rot in brassicas. I am seeing a good bit of...
Every fall, I look forward to the flowers of Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum) blooming next to the creek that runs through my neighborhood. The blue flowers resemble the annual flower,...
Finding a plant that attracts hummingbirds, blooms until frost, and grows well in shade can be challenging. Turk’s Cap, Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii, fits that bill. Turk’s Cap is native to...
