Why is the bark on this redbud cracking? Ken Spencer explains.
A reader writes in to ask why the bark on his young redwood is cracking. Columnist Ken Spencer says it sounds like 'southwest injury,' or sunscald, which happens with sharp...
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Gardening Q&A: Is it safe to transplant a lime outside now?
Q. We planted our lime outside in the summer of 2022. I replanted it in a container and kept it inside our sunroom during the winter, where it received several...
It’s time! 10 things to do and avoid as you prune your trees and bushes
Each species has its needs. Columnist Ken Spencer starts here and branches out, with 10 things to do and 10 to avoid.
Put fireplace ash to good use in lawn and garden
It works best in raising soil pH. Here's what to know, from horticulture columnist Ken Spencer.
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New plant hardiness map: Many Virginians shift to warmer zones
More detail, more accuracy — and we're again in warmer zones.
Let the leaves be. The lawn and garden will thank you.
Leaves create a nice ecosystem for animals, insects and microbes — though there is a tipping point.
Gardening Q&A: Before you plant trees and shrubs, plan. A lot.
Five mistakes to avoid, and the basics of planting: from columnist Ken Spencer.
Gardening Q&A: When mums have met their end, try pansies or violas
Q. The beautiful mums in front of my condo that I started from a small indoor plant thrived and multiplied for more than 10 years. Every year after the blooms...
What is this thing? It’s pokeweed, a purple berry-producing foe
Q. These weeds suddenly, and prolifically, sprouted in an area of the garden after I scrubbed it of pine needles and ivy vines. We'd never seen them before, in our...
Why aren’t my tomatoes ripe yet? Gardening expert Ken Spencer has your questions answered.
If it seems as if your tomatoes have been taking their good time ripening this season, you are not alone.