You Bet Your Garden

November 19, 2011 — Many people fear spiders, but almost all of America’s arachnids are harmless predators of pest insects. Mike McGrath discusses the lone exception to that rule. Plus your fabulous phone calls.

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About a month ago I found a large black widow spider under the rim of a pot in which I grow my sage...

November 5, 2011 — Many dogwoods produce beautiful and enticing fruit-like structures after they flower. Mike McGrath examines the edibility of dogwood fruit. Plus: Energy wise landscaping, and answers to all your growing questions.

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We planted a dogwood tree in the front yard about five or six years ago and this is the first year I’ve seen fruit on it...

October 29, 2011 — Is it an acceptable lawn alternative? An interesting ornamental? Or both? Mike McGrath takes a close look at mondo grass. Plus your fabulous phone calls.

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I’ve seen beautiful tufts of Mondo Grass growing among flowers, shrubs and trees in shopping center planters and have admired the pretty purple flowers that bloom amidst the dark green blades...

October 22, 2011 — Many people turn to composting to keep their kitchen waste out of landfills. Mike McGrath reviews the right ways to recycle your lettuce leaves and apple cores. Plus: The Farmer’s Almanac predicts our winter weather; and answers to all your growing questions.

October 15, 2011 — Diseases attack them! Wasps eat their bark! And yet we love our lilacs. Mike McGrath helps you correctly care for these beautiful Spring bloomers. Plus your fabulous phone calls.

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I have a “patch ” of lilacs, (i.e., one big bush with multiple canes). Every year a white flaky substance appears on the trunks and branches, as well as a white coating on many of the leaves...

October 08, 2011 — Are ‘regular’ morning glories invasive? Or just pretty plants? Mike McGrath discusses why so many neighbors fear the sight of purple flowers in the sky. Plus your fabulous phone calls.

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I have very little area in which to garden. One plant I find to be trainable and easy to grow is the morning glory. I help the vines find their way onto fences out back and electrical poles out front...

October 1, 2011 — Spring bulb planting time is almost here! Mike McGrath reveals when to plant your bulbs and how to protect tulips and other tasty ones from squirrels and other outdoor omnivores. Plus, how to grow a green wall; and your fabulous phone calls!