Peterborough & Area Master Gardeners

Q: I have little time to spend on weed control in the garden. What can I do to keep the weeds down?
A: Weeds are wild plants growing where we don't want them. Focus energies instead on weed prevention. Planting a fast growing ground cover will give competition to the weeds. It will form a mat which weeds will find difficult to grow through. In the vegetable plot, rotate crops each year. This helps to prevent a buildup of certain weeds in concentrated areas. Try not to bring in weeds. Straw mulch can contain many weed seeds. Use only well rotted manure for the same reason. Check nursery purchased stock for weeds in the soil. Keep property boundaries mown. Mulch such as black paper or plastic, wood chips or other organic mulches go a long way to keep the weeds at bay.

Q: I am a new gardener and would like to grow some flowers and vegetables from seed. How can I tell weeds from flower or vegetable seedlings?
A: As a beginner, start by planting your seeds in clearly marked rows. As the seeds germinate, it will be easier to see a row of the same type of seedling, whereas all else will be weeds and can be hoed out. Always put markers at the ends of the rows together with the name of the crop.

Q: Can you recommend a good weed identification book?
A: Ontario Weeds, publication #505 can be obtained through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. Contact your local OMAFRA office for a copy. This book contains drawings of plants, plant parts and has a section of colored photographs at the back.

Q: I don't have a very big garden but would like to grow some fruit trees. How can I fit them in?
A: Many fruit trees grown on dwarf root stock are now available. Consider a multiple graft tree such as an apple or pear tree with four or five different varieties grafted onto one tree.

Q: Please name some shrubs that provide winter interest.
A: Try Red Dogwood, Yellow Dogwood, Corkscrew Hazel or Corkscrew Willow.

Q: Why Fertilize?
A: Aids in reducing susceptibility to diseases and insects; overcomes nutrient deficiency; aids with establishment of new transplants, root growth and overcoming stress.

Q: Why Fertilize?
A: Aids in reducing susceptibility to diseases and insects; overcomes nutrient deficiency; aids with establishment of new transplants, root growth and overcoming stress.

Q: Please speak a little about fertilizing trees.
A: Fertilizing can be beneficial to trees because it aids in making the tree less susceptible to injury by diseases or insects. It can also help the tree overcome deficiencies in certain nutrients. When transplanting, it encourages root growth and also helps combat stress. However, too much fertilizer can be bad news. Too much nitrogen can encourage foliage at the expense of flowers. As well, fertilizer applied too late in the year fosters new soft root growth, which will not overwinter.

Q: How can I keep my urban trees healthy?
A: Firstly, plant new trees in loose soil in the right location for their needs. Water and fertilize well and prune regularly. Keep trees away from hydro lines and buildings. Use mulch at the base of trees rather than grass. Regular watering in times of drought is a good idea. Smaller trees may only require an hour or two; larger trees will need to be watered overnight with a trickling hose. Fertilize if the tree shows signs of wilt or is losing its leaves prematurely. Regular pruning will help a tree live a longer, healthier life. Treat for insect infestations if necessary.

Q: Is it true that some plants will not grow near a Black Walnut tree?
A: A toxic substance known as juglone comes from the roots of the Black Walnut tree. This toxin kills many plants including potatoes and tomatoes. However, there must be contact between the roots of each. The following tolerant plants can be planted nearby: narcissus, heuchera, primulas, epimedium, lady fern. Master Gardeners can advise of additional varieties that could be tried.