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May Questions & Answers Q: What should I be doing this month in my garden in Durham County? A: Gardening Guide for May
Q: Something is eating plants in my garden. How can I tell if the culprit is a deer or a rabbit? A: Other that catching one in the act, there are a couple of other clues to look for. If the ground is soft, you may be able to see a deer’s footprints. The other is to examine the cut end of the stem. Deer have no front incisor teeth on the upper jaw whereas rabbits have a double row of incisors. A plant eaten by a deer will not be cut cleanly but will have one frayed side. A deer also often pulls the plant up while trying to eat it. A twig eaten by a rabbit will be cleanly severed.
Q: Can you recommend a groundcover suitable for shade? I do not want anything that will become invasive. A: Bugleweed Ajuga reptans, Pachysandra terminalis or Mondo grass Ophiopogan japonicus, O. planiscapus (black) would be good choices). For an extensive listof groundcovers for all conditions consult
Q: I have poison ivy growing into my yard from the woods behind my home. How do I get rid of it without damaging my grass and plants? A: Digging it out is the best option but most people are so allergic to it that even with protective gloves and clothes, it is extremely risky. Cutting if back to the ground repeatedly will eventually starve the plant. There are chemicals that will help to control the growth. 2, 4-D works best in late spring to early summer. Glyphosate also works in early summer. Triclopyr works once the leaves have fully emerged until they change color in the fall. Be extremely careful around your plants if you spray. You can also use a foam paintbrush to apply the solution to the leaves if it is close to other vulnerable plants. Another alternative for individuals who do not want to use chemical means for controlling this weed is to hire some goats. Goats can be contained in a wooded area using temporary fencing and can clear approximately ¼ acre of weedy undergrowth including poison ivy in just a few days. For more information regarding this pesky plant go to:
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