Good Neighbors: by Tina Clinefelter

At a recent Flea & Farmers’ Market a new neighbor of mine posed a question on pruning perennial hibiscus. I had to admit to ignorance on that subject, but promised to do a little research. Further into our conversation she mentioned that she had been telling other neighbors that they had a Master Gardener nearby who would help with their gardening questions, but then she quoted her husband’s next comment: “but have you seen her garden…?”



He meant, of course, that I have shamelessly neglected the gardens while spending time on making the living quarters more comfortable. I also have very solid gardening techniques in mind by letting the foundation plantings go berserk, and taking the rest of this growing season to observe and inventory the plant material. In short, I am conducting a site evaluation before making any changes.
I first need to determine the sun/shade patterns and am finding my house sits in pretty much full sun all day long (except when it’s raining – natch!) This means developing some shady areas. The front of the property slopes gently down to the paved road, but in the back there is a more pronounced bank where I suspect water will collect and as this is where I would like to establish an asparagus bed I may have to do a little raised bed gardening.
I now know that I have a full complement of common weeds, many volunteer locust seedlings, euonymus shrubs infested with scale insects and artillery fungus!
Oh, I forgot to mention the yellow jackets under the shutters – I shall wait until the frost kills them before doing any work in the beds – this time of year they are getting quite aggressive and I don’t need another trip to the ER.
As far as the plant material is concerned there are a number of flowers that will be moved to form clumps, some will be eliminated and potted up for next year’s Master Gardener Plant Sale, and some will be consigned to the landfill. I’m thinking next year will be devoted to filling the beds with colorful, self-seeding annuals while I develop a native plant plan.
Now, neighbors, am I forgiven for having a messy, weedy garden? I offer an apology and will make amends!
A few moments ago, while writing, I heard a gaggle of geese approaching – Canada geese – watched them angle across the valley, set their wings and come in for a landing in a recently harvested corn field. How did they know a free meal was available?
Speaking of collective nouns, (weren’t we?) my sister-in-law insists that it’s a ‘Giggle of Girls’ and a ‘Noise of Boys’. I love a ‘Murder of Crows’ and an ‘Exaltation of Larks’
Enough frivolity, back to serious business: Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs.
The Extension Office has a new brochure covering this timely subject which may be obtained by stopping at the office and requesting one. The brochure details the life history, description of the insect; damage it can inflict, how to exclude it from dwellings and what procedures are NOT recommended. It is in your best interest to be informed!
Finally, thanks to all who supported the Farmer’s Market, and those who stopped by to chat with us at the Master Gardener’s table. See you next year!