By Justin Keay [This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener Winter 2019 issue. It is part of a 4-part series of articles on how to test soil, get the sample analyzed, understand the report and use it to apply the correct type and amount of fertilizer.] Before you take on the task of analyzing a soil test, it
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Soil testing is an important practice for anyone trying to grow healthy and productive plants. By Justin Keay [This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener Winter 2019 issue.] MU Extension offices across the state processes thousands of soil samples every year and MU Extension Specialists are always happy to help you understand your soil test results. Soil testing
» Read moreBy Justin Keay [This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener Winter 2019 issue, and is part of a 4-part series on how to take a soil sample and how to analyze a soil test report and then use that information to purchase and apply the appropriate fertilizer.] Now that you’ve taken a soil sample, had it analyzed and
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The green sea of a well-kept lawn adds a sense of serenity to the yard, however harsh chemicals and time spent on upkeep can ruin this tranquility. By Abby Lapides [This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener March 2019 issue.] The green sea of a well-kept lawn adds a sense of serenity to the yard, however harsh chemicals
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Fall is the time of year when your lawn can benefit from a little extra love over any other season. If you have a weed problem address, this before summer is over so that your fall lawn care can be done without the hamper of live weeds. By Bill Dalton [This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener September
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Cool-season lawns need “cool” temperatures at night for them to recover from the high daytime temps. When we don’t get cool nights and rain, the lawns suffer (get diseases & weeds) and they won’t recover until the cool nights return. By Glennon Kraemer (This article first appeared in The Gateway Gardener September 2014 issue) Cool-season lawns need “cool” temperatures at
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March and early April are prime times to seed your cool season lawns. Especially, if you have any shade. After May 1, your success rate really drops off. By Glennon Kraemer First published in The Gateway Gardener March 2014 March and early April are prime times to seed your cool season lawns. Especially, if you have any shade. After May
» Read moreThe onset of cool weather means that relief from mowing and trimming is just around the corner. You’ll know the time has come when your lawn stays within 1-1/2” and 2” in height and stops growing. By Tim Youngworth This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener November 2009 issue. The onset of cool weather means that relief from
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by Patrick Geraty (This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener October 2010 issue) Want the secret to a lush spring lawn? It’s autumn top dressing! Fall might mean your harvest is slowing down, but it is prime time for lawn and garden care that reaps bountiful benefits next planting season. Top dressing with a nutritious diet of compost
» Read moreBy Glennon Kraemer (This article was first published in The Gateway Gardener March 2010 issue.) Any successful business, weight loss program or retirement account requires planning. It’s the sound execution of that plan that brings the most reward. Your lawn is no different. There are no “magic pills” for your lawn (only Magic Mix, but I digress). If you take
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