Our back yard is on a slope. Through the years stiltgrass took over and now we have bare ground. I am interested in what we should do to cover this area that will require minimum maintenance because we are not getting younger. No history of chemical use, I have not had the soil tested in years. It’s mostly shade from tall white pines on the property behind us. I would enjoy a meadow but it seems they require quite a lot of maintenance. I appreciate any assistance.

Hello, I live in Monroe, Oregon and I have noticed that my grape hyacinth bulbs that are planted in a pot are going into bloom. After searching online, this does not seem to be ordinary, as everything I read said they will only bloom in spring. I was curious if this may be an effect of climate change and our unseasonably warm temps we've been having? Sorry if this is a repeat message, I tried to submit this and it was unclear if the submission worked. I thought the plant people would want to know! I have attached a picture of the bloom starting, taken November 6th. Thanks for your time!

Hello - I have a beautiful potted hibiscus plant. I understand it is perennial? How can I preserve it over winter so it blooms again next summer? Should I plant it in the ground, bring it inside (if so what kind of light does it need)? Thank you

How deep do raspberry roots go in Minnesota? To keep my basement less wet, I'm considering placing membrane sloped away from the foundation underground. I want to go deep enough to prevent common plants from pushing through it. We grow raspberries along the sides of the house. I know native Minnesota plants can grow roots over 10 feet deep, so I cannot plan for that. I have 3 different basement contractors say I cannot simply dig next to the foundation and place waterproofing there because the 100+ year old foundation would not survive - its fine if left alone. I'm open to other design considerations. Feel free to direct me to any other resources.

Good morning- Can you please help me identify what is causing this damage to my crape myrtles and what I can do about it. I live in the Cockeysville area and the tree is about 4 years old (planted by Salt Creek Gardens in Annapolis.

My 20 ft. High loblolly seems to be losing a lot of needles. In the summer I found and picked off many of the caterpillars in the photos. Is there a connection and should I be worried about demise of this lovely tree? Many thanks!

A tree in the woods near my home is covered with these insects. This fall is the first I have ever seen them. Is there anything we could/should do to eliminate them or prevent/slow their spread?

I have an approx 10 ft x 10 ft patch of brown grass in my lawn. I want to plant grass seed. What type of seed can I plant now that’s safe for dogs?

I would like to buy my dried herbs from someone local so I know I’m getting quality product to use for my homemade tinctures, salves etc. Are there any you would recommend?