Hello, Our backyard has a very steep incline and it is difficult to mow. Someone suggested planting Crown vetch. Then it would not need to be mowed. Is that a good idea? Is there a certain variety that must be used? Is it already too late for this year? Thank you for your help with this.

Where is a good source to buy coconut coir to make a good potting mix without peat moss? Thank you

Dear U of M Extension, I have a small garden in which I am slowly packing as many different types of berries as I can find. I am excited about the idea of adding some berry varieties developed or at least field tested by the U of M, but I am not sure where is the best place to find such plants. Does the U have any kind of spring plant sale that would include berry plants? Or a list of vendors selling cultivars under license? I bought a hardy kiwi vine on a whim at Lowe's a couple weeks ago. After doing some research subsequently I am kind of kicking myself (a) because I only bought one plant, not knowing that both a male and female are needed, (b) I don't think Lowe's even designated which were male vs. female, and (c) I don't know which cultivar of hardy kiwi this even is. From now on I'm trying to be a little more strategic. (These specific questions are a moot point since after learning how big these vines get I think I will need to give this away to someone with a bigger yard). I am finding the resources on your website very helpful in terms of learning about plants, but the one additional thing I am now seeking is where to actually buy them. Thanks! Brian

Hello. We have a birch tree out near our house and it's stems are turning black and have little to no growth. Do you know what this is and can we treat it? Thanks.

I have a white lacey mold or fungus or something, growing through a mulch pile left for last summer. Is it harmful how can I treat or kill it. Must I remove it or can I spread it out in the sunlght to kill it?

What is the best way to get my garden soil tested here in the Bend area?

How do I get my soil tested?

I would like to create new soil for a new raised bed garden. I have a pile of sawdust and a pile of manure to use. What other ingredients do I need to use? Thank you, Cyndi

We live in Ashland and witnessed the fury of the Almeda Fire last September. We can't put our fire wood 30 feet from the house as our lot is too small, but we need to cover one cord of firewood this summer against wildfire. Fortunately, it will be stored on the north side of the house. What are the specifications for a tarp to cover a woodpile during fire season this year? Does it need to be soaked in fire resistant chemicals? Can you recommend a manufacturer?

I’m interested in soil testing cost. Do I test multiple areas growing diverse flora