Mulch
As we start planning our gardens the subject of mulching comes to mind. Organic mulches serve several important functions in gardens and in landscape planting. Mulches help control annual weeds; conserves soil moisture; reduces soil erosion; reduce the severity of some diseases, such as blight on tomatoes; moderate soil temperature; and provide an attractive background for plantings. When choosing which organic mulch to use, consider availability, cost, appearance, function and durability. My favorite is shredded bark mulch. They are available in bulk quantities and also in bags that are easy to handle. They are attractive, weed free, decompose slowly, and are reasonably priced (on sale). The bark mulches are good to use around trees, shrubs, and roses and in the perennial flowerbeds. Apply most organic mulches 2 to 4 inches deep for best results. In my vegetable garden I prefer to use grass clippings. Remember to allow the lawn clippings to dry before applying to the garden. Using fresh green material will produce an unpleasant odor. If the lawn has been treated with a broadleaf herbicide do not use the clippings.
Growing Blueberries in Iowa
Planting blueberries in Iowa is not for the person who needs immediate gratification, but it can be done. Here are some pointers that may help you succeed. The first thing to do is to test the pH in your soil. Blueberries like a pH of 4 to 5.5 and most of our soil in Iowa is at around pH 7. It is best to select a plant that will grow in northern Iowa like half-high blueberries. The plants are relatively small and usually only grow to be about 2 to 3 feet in height. Some suggested varieties are Northblue, Northcountry, Northsky, and St. Cloud. Spring is the best time to plant blueberries and be sure to read and follow the directions. It is generally a good idea to fill the hole with a mixture of half soil and half peat. After planting thoroughly water each plant. Also remember that blueberries have shallow roots system and quickly become stressed during hot, dry weather. To help retain moisture and control weeds apply 2 to 4 inches of mulch around each plant. You can use sawdust, pine needles or shredded leaves. During dry weather water your plants weekly. You should not allow them to fruit the first 2 years.
A few simple ideas for gardeners
For home gardeners, simple things can have a huge impact on suppressing diseases. Just by watering plants at the soil line rather than overhead will help to discourage leaf diseases. Rotating garden vegetables, to avoid replanting the same sorts in the same places each year, can also give you an advantage. And disease-resistant varieties are the cheapest and best disease insurance you can buy.
skb
4/25/2008