Burlap screens can help protect evergreens from winter, but watering matters more
"I planted some new evergreens this summer, and some friends told me that I should wrap them in burlap for the winter. I see other gardeners doing this. Is this...
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Invasive buckthorn crowding out plants in your garden? Here’s how to get rid of it.
"I have neglected a large section of my garden in the backyard, and buckthorns have moved in and become a big problem. What is a good strategy to get rid...
Warm, dry November means new plants need extra water before winter
"I have done a lot of planting in my garden over the last couple of years and wonder how late I need to keep watering. This warm weather is confusing,...
How to winterize your vegetable garden for a thriving crop next year
"I had great success with my new vegetable garden this year and would like to prepare for another good season in 2021. Are there some things I can still do...
Knowing when to prune clematis vines depends on which type your garden has
"We have several clematis vines in our garden and do not know their names. Do you advise cutting them this fall or leaving them alone?" — Laura Anderson, Deerfield Different...
Uproot delicate dahlia tubers now so they can overwinter indoors
"I have enjoyed growing dahlias for the first time this summer and would like some advice on saving them over winter and growing them again next year with even better...
Falling leaves can be a pain during yard work, but mulching mowers make it easier to handle
"I am already tired of raking leaves and was wondering if I can just mow over them and leave them on the lawn?" — Jacob Burlington, Highwood Leaf drop has...
Dark blotches on leaves of pachysandra are sign of Volutella blight. Here’s how to treat it.
"My bed of pachysandra has developed dark blotches on the leaves. I'm wondering what this problem is and what I can do to improve the health and appearance of this...
Deer rubbing can be fatal to trees. Here’s how to protect yours as bucks look to mark territory this fall
"I was at the Chicago Botanic Garden last week and saw some trees with what looked like plastic fencing around their trunks. What is this for, and should I do...
9 timely gardening and lawn tips for fall, whether you’re a pandemic gardening newbie or a seasoned pro
Getting outside to soak up some sun and tend to living things was restorative for many during the stressful pandemic-plagued summer. But as the weather gets colder, it'll be time...