We have a maple tree in our yard, approximately 25 years old, with what appears to be a deteriorating bark at the base of the tree. We would appreciate an appraisal of the health of the tree, and if we should be concerned about the longevity of the tree. In addition, if there is any treatment of intervention that may be helpful, advice long these line would be appreciated.

Hello, We are avid canners of our homegrown tomatoes into salsa and homegrown beets into pickled beets. My husband has recently been placed on a restrictive low sodium diet...which means some of our favorite salsa and pickled beets are VERY restricted. I found a Low Sodium salsa recipe from a Kidney site using no additional salt specifying it is ok for canning. https://www.nwkidney.org/recipe/tomato-salsa/ I am asking your opinion on that topic and to compare the vinegar to tomato ratio of this recipe to the vinegar to tomato ratio on my own recipe. The NWKidney recipe states 8 quarts of tomatoes...is that 8 qt before or after peeling/chopping? It never really stated the expected yield or the serving size, just the number of expected servings. My preferred recipe uses 10 cups of prepped tomatoes to 1 1/4 cups of vinegar. Question: Is that ratio of tom/vin sufficient for good processing? The current recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of canning salt, I would like to cut that back to 1 teaspoon. Opinion? The same type of question on my pickled beet recipe. the Recipe calls for 2 pounds of beets (before prepping), 1/ 1/2 cups vinegar, 1 1/4 cups sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt. While one does not usually consume the beet juice brine, I can also not really predict the amount in the actual beets and would like to reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon. In all cases, I understand that the flavors perception will change. Does MSU Co Ex have recipe available for Low Sodium canning? Thank you.

Greetings, I have purchased 3 outdoor planter containers that will be used to grow some type of flowers; perhaps annuals or perennials. I have two questions. First, what is the best soil to add to these containers? With a quick search I see grden soil, topsoil, potting soil, and raised bed soil. Which is the best for my application, and why? Is a combination even better? Second, these containers do not have any holes in the bottom for water drainage. Should I drill several holes (~1/2") in the bottom for drainage? My concern is in the event of a heavy or steady rain the containers will partially fill with water. As always, thanks.

Hello, I live in South Central Minnesota. I am looking for a good cover to plant, that will kill/ crowd out the grass so that I don't have to mow. Could I get your recommendations, please? Thank you

What is eating my hibiscus tree and how do I improve its overall health? Despite these bugs and less than full leaves, it has bloomed indoors all winter. I'd like to get it healthier for better summer performance.

Can you help identify this weed from my lawn and how to get rid of it? It has been taking over!

How do I collect a soil sample to determine the alkalinity/Ph range? Where would I take it to for testing? I would like to do something to prevent mushrooms popping up after every rain.

Pls ID this plant. They pop up everywhere. Thanks