It ain’t necessarily so.................................Carol Ann Harlos

compost bin unless you cut them in very small pieces and mix them in the soil. Keep in mind that while potassium promotes root growth to make stronger rose plants, it does not enhance flower growth. That comes from phosphorus.

Don’t water when the sun is shining; the droplets will act magnifying glasses and burn holes in the leaves. You don’t believe this, do you? I grew up hearing this. Finally, I put droplets of water on leaves in the middle of a hot summer day. They were fine.

My garden plants are not doing well. I plan to add Epsom salts to the soil. Why?

Please have a soil test done periodically. I suggest going to the website Dairy One, scrolling to the bottom of the page, and choosing soil test. The website gives information on how to take a soil sample for testing. Fees may apply for testing but it’s a small expense potentially harming or killing

CAROL ANN HARLOS

plants by guessing and adding unproven substances to your soil.

Thank you so very much for your questions and comments. I love hearing from you: caharlos@ verizon.net FY

Carol Ann Harlos is an awardwinning retired math and science teacher, Master Gardener, beekeeper, writer, and speaker. She tends extensive gardens, including herbs, and loves learning from others and sharing her knowledge.