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The basics of selecting garden seeds

In the winter, many gardeners' heads are filled with visions of flourishing plants and bountiful harvests. Making those visions into reality starts with seeds. Here's what to consider when deciding on seeds to buy.

Nicole Sanchez | Jan 2019 | Article

Thoughtful use of water in the garden pays off

How can home gardeners use water in the most efficient way possible? Here's a look at the best ways to deliver water in the garden and keep it available to be absorbed by plants for as long as possible.

Nicole Sanchez | May 2020 | Article

For late-season plantings, think leafy greens

The best options for late-season plantings in areas with short growing seasons are vegetables that mature quickly or tolerate frost once mature. Many of the appropriate choices fall into the category of “leafy greens.”

Nicole Sanchez | Jul 2020 | Article

New to the garden? Here are a few tips

For new gardeners, that first growing season will provide many lessons. Foremost among them are that gardening takes patience and discipline. Here are some tips for first-timers, especially those in cooler climates.

Nicole Sanchez | Apr 2023 | Article

Heat wave in the garden: How to identify and prevent heat stress in plants

When a heatwave hits, plants may show the impact. Learn the signs of heat stress in plants and how to help them weather a heatwave with best practices for watering, mulching, shading, providing humidity and weeding.

Nicole Sanchez | Jun 2021 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

How to extend the growing season in tough climates

Home gardeners can sometimes be too eager to get plants in the ground and that can spell failure. There are methods, however, to extend the growing season by providing plants with the protection they need from the cold.

Nicole Sanchez | Oct 2019 | Article

Maintain a bee-friendly garden in fall and winter, too

Many home gardeners put much effort into attracting bees to their summer flower and vegetable gardens. But it's just as important to be bee-friendly in the fall and winter. Here's how to do it.

Candy Solovjovs | Oct 2020 | Article

Spikeweed

Can spraying this weed at the right time keep it out of our fields?

Mary Corp | Oct 2018 | Article

Five weird things that happen to homegrown tomatoes

Home gardeners love to grow tomatoes. But getting a tomato from seedling to fruit can be challenging, especially in Oregon where the weather isn't always cooperative. Here are five things that can ruin a home crop.

Nicole Sanchez | Jun 2019 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)