What do the numbers on a fertilizer bag represent? 

The numbers indicate the amounts or percentages of nitrogen, phosphate and potash in the fertilizer. These three nutrients are needed in relatively large quantities by most plants. The first number refers to the amount of nitrogen, the second refers to the amount of phosphate and the third refers to the amount of potash. For example, a 10-6-4 fertilizer contains 10 percent nitrogen, 6 percent phosphate and 4 percent potash.

What is a rain garden? 

A rain garden is a specially constructed shallow depression in the landscape that collects water from the roof of a house or other building and allows it to slowly filter into the soil.  Excellent plant materials for rain gardens include deep-rooted native grasses, wildflowers and sedges.  Rain gardens provide several environmental benefits.  A rain garden reduces the amount of water flowing into storm sewers, thereby reducing the risk of flooding.   Rain gardens also reduce the amount of pollutants (lawn fertilizers and pesticides, chemicals from roofing materials, etc.) flowing into nearby streams and rivers via stormwater runoff.   They’re also attractive additions to the landscape. 

When is the proper time to harvest blueberries? 

Harvest blueberries when the fruit are fully ripe. The best indications of ripeness are color, flavor and picking ease.  Fully ripe blueberries are uniformly blue in color, have a good flavor and separate easily from the plant.  (Do not harvest blueberries on color alone, as the berry is often blue for some time before being fully ripe.)  After harvesting, immediately store blueberries in the refrigerator.  Maximum storage life is seven to 10 days. 

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