Jumping worms are real and a threat to the garden

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – As gardeners spend time in their flower beds and landscapes, they might uncover some worms in the soil – and not just any worm, the invasive Asian jumping worm. Unlike native earthworms, this and other non-native earthworm species, can wreak havoc in the soil. And yes, they do jump. Asian jumping worms are somewhat new to the United States, said Scott Loss, associate professor with Oklahoma State University’s Department of…

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OSU Extension websites provide valuable toolkits for all things gardening

With gardening season preparation underway, three new websites have been developed that pertain to home landscapes and gardening, home lawn care and pond management. In addition, the Oklahoma Proven and Oklahoma Gardening websites have been completely updated, featuring beautiful color photos and the most up-to-date, research-based information. Home Landscape and Gardening This site features a Frequently Asked Questions section covering fruit, houseplants, ornamentals and trees, turfgrass and vegetables. David Hillock, OSU Extension consumer horticulturist,…

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Get a leg up on gardening with Oklahoma Proven selections

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Gardeners know the challenges of selecting plants that will thrive in Oklahoma’s extreme growing conditions. Fortunately, the Oklahoma Proven plant program can assist with selection. “Oklahoma Proven is a plant promotion program to help guide gardeners toward appropriate garden selections that have been proven to grow well in Oklahoma’s diverse climate and soil types,” said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist. “Each year, a tree, shrub, perennial and annual are selected.…

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Stop before you lop – a quick guide to winter pruning

By Trisha Gedon By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – To prune or not to prune? That is the question. When Oklahoma experiences warmer weather in the winter months, homeowners may want to take advantage of the milder temperatures and get a head start pruning trees and shrubs in the landscape. The purpose of pruning is to maintain the intended purpose of the plants in the landscape, improve plant appearance and protect people and property. For security purposes,…

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Winter is a great time for garden planning

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Although the landscape may be bleak in the winter, now is the time for gardeners – those with established green thumbs and those who are just starting out – to get started on their gardening plans for the upcoming growing season. Oklahoma State University Extension offers a variety of gardening information online, but there’s one publication that is especially helpful to gardeners - especially novice gardeners. The Oklahoma Garden Planning Guide is chocked…

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How to transition potted plants indoors for winter

By Gail Ellis  STILLWATER, Okla. – The seasons are changing, and gardeners are transitioning their potted plants indoors for the winter. To prevent plants from losing their leaves once inside, Oklahoma State University Extension recommends allowing them time to adjust to their new environment. David Hillock, OSU Extension horticulture specialist, said plants should be moved before night temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, plants will suffer damage if exposed for an extended amount of time. “Don’t make…

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