Ask Categories: Soil & Soil Amendments

Plastic in soil

Is like to know about plastic labels in the soil. I know they leach into the soil, but what does it do to the soil and plants. Do the plants absorb it? And in turn are we ingesting microplastics? There’s…

Soil Composition

I have a community garden here in Toronto. I am thinking of topping up my garden by adding a couple of inches of Triple Mix (soil, peat moss and compost). After applying this layer of Triple Mix can I also…

Purchased plants from BC may have jumping worms

Hello there, I ordered some hardy perennials that are being shipped across Canada, from BC to me in Toronto. Unfortunately, I found out after the fact that the nursery has a bad reputation and I am concerned about picking up…

Tree peony

Hi, Where can I find Joanna Gilbert tree peony in Toronto? And is it too late to plant tree peony in mid November? Many thanks!…

Turkey litter compost

For several years now I have been adding turkey litter compost to my garden in the early spring.  Can I add the same compost to my garden in the fall (i.e., now?) And do I need to then add some…

Crop Rotation and Winter Soil Amendments

I have a plot 15 ft x 20ft at a local garden club where I have been growing mainly heirloom tomatoes (heavy feeders) in the same spot for 10 years. I use quality turkey and worm compost every year. But…

Wildflowers

I’m looking for advice to plant my N/W facing yard (in midtown Toronto)with wildflower seeding. For many years I had self seeding corn flowers, field poppies and calendulas but they’ve failed for the past two years 1. I’m planning to…

Cactus Support!

Hi, I purchased this cactus recently and he is starting to turn brown. I’ve been told that this might be due to too much water or not enough sunlight. Additionally, I’ve been told that my pot should be draining. I…

Preparing neglected “flower bed” for spring

I’m so glad I discover this group because you’re local experts! We bought a house recently with a yard that’s overgrown and not well cared for. I’d like to prepare the long strip of soil for planting a variety of…