Preparing new garden bed

I am planning to create a new garden bed near the foundation of my house. Should I remove the existing soil and if so, to what depth? I think I should lay down landscaping paper and would like to know…

Amending poor soil

I have tested my garden clay soil and find it has neutral PH and low phosphorous, and potash and very low nitrogen. What kind of fertilizer should I use to improver the quality and want can I use to make…

Bulbs and irrigation conundrum

the companion perennials (planted right next to the bulb) are watered by drip. poor bulbs – they are too . sad … soggy … bulbs…

How to completely remove grass

Hi, I have many perennials in my yard and want to remove grass and weed completely. My understanding is the safest way is to cover the yard with newspaper and mulch for winter time. The question is, do I cover…

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…

Mulch versus soil

Hello Looking for an answer to question of whether it is better to top off flower beds with soil or with mulch. see that many of the $$ homes in the neighbourhood use soil instead of mulch, so wondering if…

Calculating the Amount of Mulch Required.

The trunk measures 24 inches average on the tree. How much mulch would you estimate could top that oval shaped drip line, if I just dropped 26 kg of compost? I’d do the math, but my covid-fogged brain, and the…

European Beech Tree: Types of Mulch

For a tree which has an oval drip line with a 5 foot diameter, I added 26 kg of city compost. Is there a  reason one shouldn’t add shredded mulch that the mulch will smother the compost living matter? I…

Soil Fertility: A Toronto Master Gardeners Guide

Description Soil fertility refers to the ability of soil to supply and sustain nutrients for healthy plant growth. Maintaining the fertility and health of garden soil is important for good lawn and garden management. Soil fertility promotes the development of…