A Little Extra Work Goes a Long Way Mulching around tomatoes is perhaps the most overlooked (and important) part of growing quality tomato plants. Mulching with (herbicide-free) grass clippings, straw, or fabric will not only keep the weeds out, but also prevent blight. Tomato Blights live in the soil and hurt the plants when that soil bounces up and hits the bottom leaves. Mulching around the stalk and out a few feet will help to prevent blight from ruining your crop. What's

Site and Soil Any soil that grows good garden crops will also grow an abundance of strawberries. It may be sandy or even a heavy clay. Sandy loam is ideal. Good moisture and drainage is important. Plenty of organic matter in the soil is good for holding moisture. The best berry production requires full sunlight for at least 8 hours a day. Fertilizer Before planting work cow manure into the soil. It is the best material for good berry growth. Approximately 4 weeks after pl

With a great big 'Thank you!" to our friends at Gerten's Landscape design in Inver Grove Heights (www.gertens.com), we reprint these 10 general tips to help you make the most of the landscape you have available. Light Track patterns of sun and shade in your garden and choose plant materials that are appropriate for your light conditions. Add golds & white to brighten dark areas and use strong colors for "pop" in sun areas. Don't forget to develop shady areas for gathering

Many gardeners start seeds too early, causing problems in growth and development of a plant that would otherwise be healthy and beautiful! Growing indoors is fun and easy, once you know how to properly provide and care for your plants. Here is some great information on when to start seeds indoors for optimum growth and performance. Sort your Seed Packets Start by separating all your packets of seed into two piles: those that will be "direct-sown" (planted right in the garden)

Gorgeous hanging baskets bring color and life up off the ground and right into view! Use these pruning techniques to keep your baskets blooming like mad until fall rolls around and kills everything. Encourage branching in all types of hanging basket plants by snipping three stems in half every week. It's an easy rule to remember: three stems in half every seven days. Snip! Snip unruly branches to keep the overall look neat. Cut them off about four inches from the soil line an