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June 18, 2010

Ace of Spades: Kill that quack grass with layers of old newspapers

Originally published in the June 11, 2010, print edition.

How can I get rid of quack grass in my garden?

You can place several layers of newspaper over the quack grass itself. In time it will kill the quack grass. You may need to add more layers of newspapers. You can also spray Roundup on the quack grass on a calm day. Remember the root system develops a lot of roots under the surface of the ground, so it is hard to get rid of quack grass.

How deep should I plant the vegetable seeds in my garden?

Always follow the directions on the label, as it usually will tell you how deep you should plant the seeds. Always use the freshest seeds available.  You will get poor germination with older seeds.

Are rhubarb leaves poisonous, or can they be useful in any way?

The rhubarb leaves are poisonous in some stages. However you can put these leaves around the base of the rhubarb itself. This will help hold the moisture of your plants. Another idea is to lay some of these leaves around the base of your tomato plants, to help with the control of blight. Speaking of tomatoes, another idea is to cut the bottom tier of leaves off of the tomato plant. Doing this will help prevent blight.  Also plant your tomato plants at least 4 feet apart.

What are some good strawberry varieties to plant later this summer?

Try Honeoye, Jewel (an everbearing plant), Earliglow and  Ogallala strawberry, (also an everbearing strawberry plant). By the way, we had our first ripe strawberry this week. We are growing them in our 25-inch raised garden. For details how we did it you may e-mail me at hwdw@madtelco.net.

What are some good varieties of raspberries?

Latham, Brandywine, Meeker, Williamette and Boyne are a few good ones. Heritage is an everbearing raspberry. You can plant these either in the spring or fall. When planting these it is better to plant them further apart rather than too close together.

Now that we've received rain recently, do I need to continue watering my hanging plants and newly-planted trees and shrubs?

Yes, definitely keep watering those hangers whether they are plants or vegetables, as well as young trees and shrubs you have planted this year and previous years.

Is it too late to plant trees?

It would have been better planting them earlier, but doing it now is still OK. Make sure to first call the Gopher State number, (800) 252-1166, before you dig. They in turn will call your utility companies and come and mark where all of your utility lines are. Do this before planting any trees; you will feel a lot safer.

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Hank Wessels is a Master Gardener in Watonwan County. He welcomes questions and comments from readers. He may be reached at 601 1st St. SW, Madelia, MN 56062, hwdw@madtelco.net or (507) 642-8479.

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