FAQ For August

Keep your garden going strong with answers to these frequently asked questions.

Drought Effects on Trees

The drought is continuing across the state of Nebraska. This drought has been going on for over 3 years and we are already seeing problems in our plants. These problems will continue to get worse if we don’t have good precipitation through spring and summer this year. Photo of Drought Stress on a tree above…

Fall Tree and Shrub Care

Most of our area experienced a spring season which was a little on the moist side. Summer and early fall have turned the spigot off, resulting in a dry root zone for many trees and shrubs. But, how do you know if your tree(s) are part of the many or part of the moist? Ya gotta check.

Surface Roots Under Trees

Trees are great – they produce shade, create framing for a house or building, provide shelter for songbirds, slow down the wind and snow and so many other benefits…but they can create a few problems, one of which is surface roots.   Surface roots are not to be taken lightly – they create a tripping…

Mulching – Timing and Products

Weeds are a given.  They’re a true guaranteed item in a field of gardening and lawn care variables.  In lawn care, common sense turf practices and herbicides can be used to create a relatively weed free part of the landscape.  In landscape beds, we turn to mulch. The key to mulch effectiveness is to apply…

Much Mulch

Are you kidding?  Seeing a mound of mulch piled on a tree trunk conjures up images of a volcano with a tree sticking out of it.  Why does this happen?  Three reasons: If a little is good, more is better. Just like with adult beverages, potato chips, pop and buying clothes, excessive amounts are not…

Follow Up Care for Newly Planted Trees – Mulching

Mulching If a little is good, much more is better is not a good mantra for mulching.  For the overall sense of proper mulching technique, take a cue from Mother Nature.  In a forest or natural setting, you’ll commonly see a 2-4 inch layer of fallen leaves, stems, fruits and bark, often referred to as…

Newly Planted Trees, Shrubs, Perennials – Aftercare

You’ve installed some new trees, shrubs and perennials…now what?  In order to keep them looking great, there are a few simple care steps that should follow planting, especially in June.   A thorough soaking of water, followed by moisture monitoring. Nothing special here; use a sprinkler can to place water evenly throughout the entire root…

Warm Season Veggies

Cool season veggies are great – cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, cabbage and George Bush’s favorite – broccoli.  As the soils warm however, the time for planting warm season veggies is upon us.  Crops such as peppers, eggplant, squash, tomatoes and cucumbers thrive on warm growing conditions – 75 to 85 degrees F.  Hopefully, your weekend project…