By Gail Cocker, Simcoe County Master Gardener, SCMG A lot has been written recently about the merits of planting natives in your garden; vital for our local ecosystem by providing essential food and shelter for…
By Cynthia B. Lauer, Master Gardener, SCMG Bad bugs are notorious in their diversity and in the damage they do. Aphids swarm zinnias, roses, and dozens of other prized plants, and spider mites suck the…
By Cathy Krar, Master Gardener, SCMG How would you feel if you didn’t have to spend your weekend mowing your lawn? I suggest it is possible to look out on a lush green yard without…
By Scott Mcintaggart, Master Gardener In-Training, SCMG We've all heard a lot about the role that butterflies, birds, bees, bats, insects and other animals play in facilitating pollination (the transfer of pollen from the anthers…
By Christine March, Master Gardener, SCMG Of the many joys of spring - more daylight, warmth in the air - nothing makes me happier than seeing pops of colour return to our outside world. Who…
By Cathy Krar, Master Gardener, SCMG Companion planting is about natural balance and growing plants together that can be mutually beneficial. Planting your vegetable garden with plants that repel pests will help increase yields, reduce…
By Scott Mcintaggart, Master Gardener In-Training, SCMG Scientific Name: Cirsium arvensis Family: Asteraceae Common Names: Canada thistle, Creeping thistle, California thistle, Field thistle, Cursed thistle Canada Thistle is not Canadian! Originally from Northern Africa, Western…
By Cynthia B. Lauer, Master Gardener, SCMG Whether it’s periwinkle, English ivy, creeping bellflower, garlic mustard, dog-strangling vine, honeysuckle, or buckthorn among many others, chances are that you’ve done battle with an invasive plant. Digging,…
Spotted Lantern Fly (Lycorma delicatula) By Joan Sundeen, Master Gardener in-Training, SCMG Why should we be concerned? This striking but destructive insect poses a threat to Canadian agriculture and your vigilance is needed. The Spotted…
By Cynthia B. Lauer, Master Gardener, SCMG Lush, green lawns are a dominant landscaping feature. The standard blend of Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, and perennial rye grass serves as an outdoor carpet whether in an urban…