Fall Mulching
Winter mulching, once an optional task for only the most sensitive plantings, is now becoming a necessity. Our New England winters are less predictable because of climate change, it’s time to revisit this fall chore that can make the difference in plant and shrub...
Composting Made Simple
It’s no secret that compost is highly revered among gardeners. We know some who have requested a truckload as a Birthday present! Love for compost is understandable since the benefits of this nutrient-rich substance include improved soil quality, reduced need...Invasive English Ivy vs. Non Invasive Alternatives
Contributed by Curtis Hawley Round 3: English Ivy (Hedera Helix) vs Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) As we learned in our previous posts in this series, you can’t purchase Japanese Barberry or Burning Bush in Massachusetts because they’re invasive...Get Ready for Bulbs!
Fall is here, and fall is bulb time! We are planning bulb “overlays” for the garden, meaning that bulbs can be planted on top of and in between the other plants in your garden. Bulbs can bloom from March to May using crocus, grape hyacinths, various types...Invasive species in Massachusetts Vs. Noninvasive Species: Part 2
Contributed by Curtis Hawley In Part 1 of this blog series, we talked about what the term invasive means in regard to plants. Another term that’s commonly used in this discussion is “native,” which refers to a plant that is native to the local environment. This term...About Christie Dustman
Christie Dustman is a life-long gardener and owner of Christie Dustman & Company, Inc.
