Author Archives: dirtynailz

We gardeners plot and scheme and plan how best to manipulate nature so we can grow our vegetables, and nature often throws us curve balls such as cold temperatures and drought. But sometimes, the surprises are pleasant ones. Take my … Continue reading →

Throughout my Master Gardener  training, and later, in a more focused advanced course on weeds and invasives, the mantra of every instructor was “seek and destroy.” I don’t know how much money is spent by state and federal governments on … Continue reading →

I remember during my Master Gardener core training course, when the mere mention of groundhogs, (or “woodchucks” here in RI) would send my classmates into a frenzied discussion of how to get rid of them. I heard people who I … Continue reading →

The above orchid is Phalaenopsis “Little Sunny.” It was a door prize at an orchid club meeting, and when I won it, it had two healthy-looking leaves, but not much else. I had no idea what the flowers would look … Continue reading →

HerbDoc is all in a tizzy over a new cuke: I love fresh cucumbers, especially the pickling varieties, but since we have high humidity here due to the proximity of the ocean, I’m often plagued by powdery mildew.  Weekly spraying … Continue reading →

HerbDoc has a warning for you, our dear readers: A very disturbing report aired on our local news recently.  Apparently the Price Rite grocery store in Cranston, RI,  was carrying quarter ounce bags of the flower heads of Arnica right … Continue reading →

While we’re starting our seeds and fantasizing about our first harvests, HerbDoc has some kind words for determinate tomatoes: Tomatoes are definitely the most popular home garden crop, and although I’ve heard many negative comments about determinants, these are among … Continue reading →

I can’t tell you how many times I have heard homeowners lamenting the damage their dogs have done to their yards. The sad part is, it doesn’t have to be that way. In taking the time to consider how your … Continue reading →

Carol Deppe has written a thought-provoking and very useful book entitled: “The Resilient Gardener: Food Production and Self-Reliance in Uncertain Times.” (Chelsea Green, 2010) I thought this was a  timely topic, so I bought it and soon found myself underlining … Continue reading →

To “lasagna” or not? HerbDoc is torn: I recently read an article by a local garden guru who proposed growing potatoes and tomatoes in a “lasagna” type vegetable garden.  Has anyone tried this and what were the results? I currently … Continue reading →