Ask an expert
Q
There are sow bugs (rolly pollys) in my compost. How do I get rid of them? Tilling has some advantages for gardeners starting plants from seed.
germination. The roots of perennial weeds are chopped into segments with each piece capable of growing a new plant. How about no-till? All of the plant, except what you remove to eat, is left on the ground as organic matter enriching the soil thanks to earthworms, soil bacteria and fungi. The soil will drain faster because all the water channels are left intact. You have complete control over timing of planting. And let’s face it, it is less work. Still, there are some disadvantages to no-till. It works fine for transplants, but not as well for seeds. Secondly, it is messy and will look that way until the vegetables
Spring 2012
get tall or you cover it with mulch. Next, if you are having fungal problems, leaving plant debris over winter is not a good idea. Finally, it takes longer to reap the benefits of organic additions laid on top vs. incorporated into the soil. Many gardeners use the some-till method. Forking or spading over the soil in the fall to add compost, then lightly fluffing it up in the spring after winter’s freeze/thaw cycles have worked their magic. The good news is you are the boss of your garden. If doing things the way grandpa taught you brings back good memories, your choice is clear.
Answer You don’t! They are eating dead vegetative matter and turning it into compost. Congratulations, you have a viable pile.
Q
I have a spider plant hanging in front of a south window. The leaves look faded and washed out. What do I do? Answer It is getting too much sun. Some houseplants need indirect light. The color will return once it is moved. E-mail your gardening questions to Jan at ilfbpartners@jnlcom.com. ilfbpartners.com
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