Mason bees go to work early in the season before honey bees emerge
For mason bees, the wait for their first meal is a long one, nine months if it’s a day. There’s no TV, no smartphone, not even a book to while […]
Specialty nurseries highlight what’s unique
Many gardeners are familiar with garden centers, where they can get annuals, supplies, fertilizers, gloves and other items. These are usually found in well-populated areas and carry a wide variety […]
Brewing beer? Go a step further and grow your own hops
As craft beer and home brewing continue to rise, interest in growing hops ferments among home gardeners. Shaun Townsend, Oregon State University’s hops breeder, said he regularly fields questions from […]
6 winter-blooming plants brighten gardens in dark days
In January and February the flowers of winter arrive, blooming as cheerfully as the showoffs of spring. “One of the coolest things about gardening in the Pacific Northwest is winter […]
Control moss in the lawn by keeping grass healthy
Many homeowners struggle with moss that invades lawns as winter rains provide just the right conditions for its growth. “The most frequent winter time question I receive regarding lawn maintenance […]
8 tips to gear up garden for cold weather
As freezing weather moves in, gardeners may be worrying about how to protect their plants from the cold. Experts with Oregon State University Extension Service, recommend several ways to guard […]
Give charming winter-blooming plants as holiday gifts
Winter-blooming indoor plants are a welcome way to take the edge off the chill and gloom of winter and many are ready to give as holiday gifts.The choices go beyond […]
Take one more go at the garden before retiring for winter
We’re well into the holidays, daylight is in short supply and rain comes down day after day, but if you can get out in the garden or at least the […]
Head off houseplant pests with vigilance and cleanliness
Insects lurking under leaves, climbing up stems and settling into the soil of houseplants frustrate indoor gardeners to no end. But there are answers, according to experts with Oregon State […]
Shakespeare uses the power of plants to tell his tales
From the roses of “Romeo and Juliet” to the lilies of “The Winter’s Tale,” William Shakespeare mentioned plants 200 times in his plays and sonnets. He knew the power of […]