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Bruce Chladny

Peonies must be cut at proper time
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Peonies are traditionally a family favorite. They make wonderful cut flowers in the home, are used in weddings and placed at cemeteries on Memorial Day. To maximize their vase life and assure that they open, it is important to cut peonies at the proper stage of flower bud development.

Cool-season lawns entice grain mites
Thursday, May 12, 2005
As mild spring temperatures continue to linger, many gardeners are able to relax on the back patio after a hard day's work.

Cold spell threatens vegetables
Thursday, May 5, 2005
It has been said that records were meant to be broken. However, one record that's best left alone is record cold temperatures in spring.

Homework crucial when hiring pest-control pro
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Most over-the-fence conversations with neighbors these days are about spring flowering plants, lawn care and insect control. The No. 1 insect discussed: termites.

Math know-how equals more calculating gardeners
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Many gardeners spent their middle-school days questioning the usefulness of math.

Proper mower safety can prevent injuries
Thursday, April 7, 2005
Isn't spring great? A loud roar and smelly fumes filled the air the past weekend as countless Douglas County residents fired up their lawn mowers for the first time this season.

As grass greens, weeds take root
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Although it is still early for most broadleaf weeds to be growing, soon it will be difficult to tell the difference between the pansy-filled flower bed and the dandelion-filled front yard.

Leaping springtails can appear daunting but subside quickly
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Most pet owners can deal with fleas, and many homeowners can identify ants inside the home or out. However, many gardeners are unfamiliar with an insect that looks like an ant and jumps like a flea.

Soil testing beneficial this time of year
Thursday, March 17, 2005
As eager gardeners patiently await the arrival of warmer weather, many avid green thumbs are already preparing to plant their spring vegetable garden.

Sharpen your pruners: Time for a spring buzz
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Traditionally, dormant pruning is saved for the coldest and windiest weekend of the winter. Not this year.

Organic matter can enhance soil productivity
Thursday, March 3, 2005
Avid gardeners know gardening success starts from the ground up.

Pruning increases bounty of fruit tree harvest
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Despite chilly nights and the threat of sleet or snow, now is the time to prune fruit trees in the garden with spring a month away.

Dormant seeding improves spring lawn
Thursday, February 3, 2005
Now that the snow has melted and frozen ground has thawed to create a muddy mess, we are faced with ailing lawns in need of attention.

Several solutions can rid houses of squirrel nuisance
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Amazing acrobatic antics of eastern gray tree squirrels -- up the tree, across the power line, over the roof and into a hole they chewed in the attic -- can amuse gardeners for hours -- except when their behavior turns destructive.

Tried and true plants withstand Kansas conditions
Thursday, January 20, 2005
Every year gardeners search for new and unique plants to add to their landscape. Unfortunately, many of these plants are not tried and true and can succumb to harsh Kansas conditions.

Proper care helps damaged trees survive storms
Thursday, January 13, 2005
The mounds of snow and ice that recently created a magnificent winter wonderland are little more than melting piles of dingy sand, salt and road grime.

Garden enthusiasts urged to join volunteer organization
Thursday, January 6, 2005
Extension Master Gardeners come from all walks of life. They have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. However, they all have two things in common: a passion for gardening and a desire to share their knowledge with others.

New Year's resolutions should include goals for landscape
Thursday, December 30, 2004
With the new year comes a new beginning and a chance to do things differently. As you make plans for the next 12 months, try setting new-year goals in addition to making New Year's resolutions. Goals can be checked off as they are accomplished and can be fun when treated as a challenge. Once you complete a goal, reward yourself with a small celebration.

Compost pile, tools, fireplace ashes need attention
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Another Midwest gardening season is complete, but there are still a few activities that need attention. Compost piles should be turned; gardening tools need to be cleaned and put away; and mounds of fireplace ashes have to be taken care of appropriately. Here are a few tips to help you handle these chores before the holiday rush:

Consider plant toxicity when decorating
Thursday, December 16, 2004
"Deck the Halls" is a Christmas carol frequently heard this time of year. It describes the joys of the holiday season as we decorate our homes inside and out. Popular plants used to spread holiday cheer include poinsettias, holly, mistletoe and yews. But sometimes folks wonder whether it's safe to have these plants in the home. Here are some pointers to keep you and your family safe this holiday season:

Don't leave mower off your winter chore list
Thursday, December 9, 2004
Here it is, the first full week of December, and we've already had to shovel snow. But we can still rake leaves and mow the lawn. Although winter has not officially arrived, many garden chores are coming to an end. It is time to wrap up last-minute tasks and put away power equipment for the winter. Here are a few tips to help you successfully store your lawn mower this season:

Homemade wreaths can be made of everyday supplies
Thursday, December 2, 2004
The holiday season is full of life as festive decorations spread holiday cheer.

Attack now to reduce weeds in spring
Thursday, November 25, 2004
At a recent arborist training, 45 regional treecare professionals poked, prodded, bored into and inspected the trees at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. As they looked up, I looked down, noticing the thick mat of weeds in bare areas of the lawn and at the base of each tree, the two most prevalent weeds being henbit and chickweed.

Tidy garden in fall will yield success next season
Thursday, November 18, 2004
As we reflect on the gardening season, many of us can report successes with our fruits and vegetables. However, as the days shorten and the nights cool, fall garden cleanup needs to be high on your "to do" list this weekend. Taking time to clean the garden now will make spring gardening that much easier and more successful.

Grass length, fertilizing essential in fall
Sunday, November 7, 2004
Lawns are lush, green and full of life. But as the days become shorter and the nights colder, lawns are slowing their growth. Soon it will be time to put away the mower for winter.

Lady beetles can be difficult to control
Sunday, October 31, 2004
A common and welcome visitor to local gardens is the ladybug.

Ventilation, shade essential to bulbs' care
Sunday, October 17, 2004
Flowering bulbs can add interesting form, texture and color to a landscape. However, different bulbs require different care. If gardeners planted spring or summer flowering bulbs for the first time this year, here is what they need to know about caring for them:

Maintained fireplaces provide cozy setting
Sunday, October 10, 2004
A crackling wood-burning fireplace is more than a source of supplemental heat on a chilly fall evening. Many memories will be made in front of a burning fireplace in the coming months.

October is prime time for planting
Sunday, October 3, 2004
A dazzling display of spring flowering bulbs is one of the most welcomed sights after a long drab winter. But the show begins well before the warm days of April and May. Late September through October is prime planting time for spring-flowering bulbs such as crocus, tulips and daffodils.

Wolf spiders surfacing in Lawrence
Sunday, September 26, 2004
Imagine a scene from a chilling Friday night horror show. A creeping eight-legged, black and hairy predator is lurking just outside your back door. Alarmed gardeners have been calling with reports of "huge" or "weird" spiders never seen before. Fortunately, the spiders described are common wolf spiders. Although normally more discreet, they are seldom seen until fall.

Turf-type fescue is best choice for lawns
Sunday, September 19, 2004
Fall is traditionally the time to renovate cool-season lawns, such as fescue, bluegrass and ryegrass.

Conditions call for preparing lawns for fall
Sunday, September 12, 2004
Shorter days, cool nights and timely rains signal the end of summer and the beginning of a fall lawn-care program.

Eliminating weeds critical in September
Sunday, September 5, 2004
This summer has been favorable for weeds. Unseasonably mild temperatures and timely rains have helped crabgrass, foxtail and nutgrass thrive in otherwise normally stressful conditions. As prime grass-growing weather approaches, now is the time to start rejuvenating cool-season lawns.

Harvesting fruit at peak of season maintains nutrients
Sunday, August 22, 2004
Once every four or five years local fruit growers enjoy a tree-ripened peach. In most years, late spring frosts, insects and disease turn these trees into barren ornamentals. This year, however, fruit trees across the county are loaded, breaking branches and whetting gardeners' appetites.

Fungus, girdler damage leaves, tree branches
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Trees are a major part of any landscape. But when leaves begin to turn brown and die, gardeners often become alarmed. The tips of branches on many Lawrence trees aren't doing well. Botryosphaeria canker and twig girdlers, which look similar, cause branches to turn brown or make the tips of branches fall off.

Bacterial spots, specks can be prevented
Sunday, August 8, 2004
Just when it seemed safe to return to vegetable gardening, the unusual summer is causing more unusual problems.

Plant foliage changing colors early this year
Sunday, August 1, 2004
The calendar shows it is the first of August, but many of our landscape plants are looking like it is the first of October.

Conserving soil moisture critical to garden
Sunday, July 25, 2004
Gardeners normally associate cabbage, carrots and broccoli with the spring garden. However, these and other vegetables will grow quite well in the fall. If the recent reprieve from the dog days of summer have revived your gardening spirit, try planting a fall vegetable garden this month.

Rainy weather increases chance of blackspot
Sunday, July 18, 2004
Rose gardeners in the area are watching their prize-winning rosebushes slowly turn yellow and drop leaves, leaving behind a twisted mass of unattractive leggy stems.

Fungal diseases thrive in rain, warm weather
Sunday, July 11, 2004
It's strange to hear gardeners in July muttering "I wish it would stop raining," considering the drought of the past three years.

Brown patch endangers green lawns
Sunday, June 20, 2004
There is no doubt that the warm spring rains have been good for our gardens, flowers and lawns. They have quenched the thirst of our drought-stricken plants.

Adult beetles known to strip leaves from trees
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Douglas County residents should not hold their breath while waiting for "The Year of the Cicada," being touted in the news and on TV talk shows.

Insecticidal soaps effective against mites
Sunday, June 6, 2004
The growing season is well under way. Many plants have reached their peak and are starting to decline. However, their downturn may not be natural, but rather the result of an unsuspecting attacker. Able to live on most landscape trees and shrubs, spider mites are hard to see but their damage is not hard to find. If you have leaves of trees and shrubs turning off color and beginning to fall, take a close look, they may be infested with spider mites.

Clopyralid helps control broadleaf weeds
Sunday, May 30, 2004
Summer days are best spent enjoying picnics on lush, green lawns.

Carpenter bees wreak havoc on structures
Sunday, May 23, 2004
Wood is arguably the most used building material in construction. It's used to build houses, decks, furniture and other structures. If left untreated or unprotected, it will be damaged by wood rot or decay, termites, carpenter ants and carpenter bees. Although the latter are less common and the least damaging, carpenter bees are starting to show up in home landscapes.

Mosquitoes flourish in wet areas
Sunday, May 2, 2004
The sun and mild temperatures have made it enjoyable to work outside. The grass is green and many spring flowering trees, shrubs and flowers are putting on an impressive show. Annoying -- and possibly deadly -- mosquitoes also are making an appearance this spring.

Termites begin yearly attack
Sunday, April 25, 2004
I jokingly like to start talks about termites with the thought that there are two types of homes in Kansas: those that have termites and those that are going to get them. Unfortunately, termites are no joking matter. As the warm days heat the soil while rain increases soil moisture, termites are spreading their wings and taking flight to find new habitats. Often the winged reproductive termites are the only evidence of the wood-destroying insects. So, if you are finding winged termites, you may have the bugs eating you out of house and home and not even know it. Here are some tips to help you identify and control wood-destroying termites.

Healthy plants should recover in time for spring
Sunday, February 29, 2004
Recent warm temperatures and wet winter conditions have primed the pump for a wonderful spring.

Prevention best control for skunks
Sunday, February 22, 2004
As we head toward spring, dormant plants will come back to life, birds will start to sing, and other wildlife will soon be appearing in the landscape. Unfortunately, not all wildlife are a welcome sight. Skunks are not normally invited guests but are found regularly by unsuspecting gardeners this time of year.

Watering, lighting vital for violets
Sunday, February 15, 2004
By now, most houseplants look their worst. The short days, low relative indoor humidity and other unfavorable conditions mean they are merely surviving and not thriving. Usually, there is not a lot we can do because most plants show the same signs for a variety of problems. However, African violets are just fickle enough that when they're not happy, they will show you why.

Fruit trees need to be pruned in warm weather
Sunday, January 11, 2004
Traditionally, winter pruning is saved for the coldest and windiest weekend in February. But not this year. With unseasonably mild temperatures predicted for today, now is a good time to begin pruning fruit and some ornamental trees and shrubs. These plants are fully dormant and have been so for several weeks. There is nothing wrong with getting an early start on this annual event. Here are some tips for getting started with giving your landscape plants a much needed "buzz."

Wood ashes in most soils ineffective
Sunday, December 28, 2003
Although the mild winter temperatures have been good for heating bills, many people have been able to enjoy the sights and sounds of their wood fireplace.

Organization searching for enthusiasts
Sunday, December 21, 2003
As we approach 2004, it is time to train another group of Extension Master Gardener volunteers.

De-icing materials plentiful
Sunday, December 14, 2003
The recent taste of winter weather reminds us how nasty 'Ol Man Winter can be. With snow plows in our area ready to roll -- prepared to spread sand and salt-- homeowners, turn to various de-icing materials to deal with ice and snow.

Holiday plants need plenty of attention
Sunday, December 7, 2003
The Christmas season is quickly approaching. Many homes and offices are starting to shine with the magnificent life of gorgeous holiday plants. Poinsettias, Christmas and Thanksgiving Cacti are in full bloom sprucing up otherwise dreary spaces. There are several tips you should know when it comes to caring for these plants.

Nutrient management vital to gardens
Sunday, November 30, 2003
One of the most important keys to gardening success is nutrient management.

Sanitation helps counter drain flies
Sunday, November 23, 2003
Cold temperatures outside can mean warm, humid conditions inside. When trying to keep the chill of winter out, you may find another unwanted visitor trapped within. Drain flies, sometimes called moth flies, are a common and often overlooked insect associated with moist, highly organic areas such as sink drains, shower drains and areas with rotten vegetation. If you start finding a fuzzy, slow fly in the home, here is what you should do to clean up the situation.

Herbaceous perennials provide protection
Sunday, November 16, 2003
The comfortably mild temperatures have helped make fall gardening chores rather enjoyable. As the gusty breezes continue to blow around fallen leaves, many gardeners are looking for outdoor jobs to prepare for the oncoming cold weather. So, if you just can not bring yourself to start the holiday shopping and are wanting to work outside, here are a few tips for preparing your perennial flower bed for winter.

Maintenance in winter vital for equipment
Sunday, November 9, 2003
The cold temperatures these past few nights have marked the end of the gardening season. However, not only do flowerbeds and vegetable gardens need winterizing. Power equipment and garden tools need attention before putting them away for the winter. Here are some tips to help you winterize your garden equipment so it will be ready next spring.

Fertilizing now will pay off for spring
Sunday, November 2, 2003
Because days are shorter and nights are colder, lawns are slowing their growth. Soon it will be time to put the mower away for winter. By now, most gardeners are tired of caring for their yards and are looking forward to a vacation. There are some late-season chores, however, that you can do now that will make lawn care easier next spring.

Tilling, mulch good methods to fight weeds
Sunday, October 26, 2003
Henbit and chickweed are two weeds most of us do not think about until we see them blooming in spring. Chances are, however, that both of these are growing in your yard, garden or flower bed right now. Considered self-seeding winter annual weeds, the seeds from last spring's flowers already have germinated and are starting to grow.

Weather has big influence on leaf color
Sunday, October 19, 2003
Thankfully, the weather this fall has been ideal for the production of various leaf colors. As a result, for past two weeks, sightseers have enjoyed a virtual painter's pallet of orange, red, yellow and purple. Without a doubt, one of the biggest joys of autumn is this variation in leaf color. If you are outside this weekend and enjoying the display, here are some answers to why leaves change colors in the fall.

Fallen leaves can benefit landscape
Sunday, October 12, 2003
With leaves losing their chlorophyll, the yellows, reds, and oranges of other chemicals are starting to be revealed.

Controlling pesky crickets can be difficult
Sunday, October 5, 2003
Cooler weather the next several weeks will mean the end of insect pests. Unfortunately, as many pests disappear outside, they seem to appear inside the home. Insects find a way indoors because the warm temperatures provide a safe place to hide for the winter. A large population of black field crickets in the garden this fall may lead to a home invasion in the near future.

Prevention vital to counter mosquitoes
Sunday, September 21, 2003
The mild temperatures have made it enjoyable to work outside. The grass is green and many annual flowers are making a comeback. Also returning are annoying, and possibly deadly, mosquitoes. Although the hype of West Nile Virus has subsided, the fact remains that recent rains have allowed populations of mosquites to explode.

September is perfect time for lawn care
Sunday, September 14, 2003
September has arrived. The heat and drought of summer have left their mark in the history books. Now is the time to turn our attention toward tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass lawns. The weather has been perfect to fertilize, cultivate and rejuvenate those sickly bare spots in the yard.

Insidious flower bugs are around for short stay
Sunday, September 7, 2003
The fall harvest has begun, and winter wheat will soon be planted. At the same time, tiny black bugs are moving into backyard gardens and landscapes. These often unnoticed fall invaders make their presence known as they inflict a painful bite when gardeners try to spend time outdoors. If you are a victim of these unwanted guests, here is what you need to know about a pest called the insidious flower bug.

Hollow trees can create hazard
Sunday, August 31, 2003
It seems many of the mature trees around town have started to show signs of drought stress. After inspecting several of the distressed trees, it is apparent that there is another, more serious problem, arising. Many of the mature trees that I have looked at lately, are hollow -- a condition that can create a hazardous situation.

Perfect time to overseed lawn is in fall
Sunday, August 24, 2003
By all indications, this has been one of the worst summers I have experienced since arriving in Lawrence four years ago. The excessive heat, combined with drought conditions, has turned beautiful lawns and landscapes into sun-baked patches of dried plant material.

Cleaning up flower beds necessary for fall season
Sunday, August 10, 2003
The summer heat has taken its toll on many of our annual and perennial flowers.

Here are tips to help trees during drought
Sunday, August 3, 2003
It is official. July was one of the driest months in Kansas history. Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has issued a drought warning for 53 counties and put the remaining 52 counties in a drought watch. With little rain and none really predicted for the near future, now is the time to start managing the home landscape with less water.

Concentrate watering on new plants
Sunday, July 27, 2003
The recent rains did little more than tease us this week. And many gardeners continue to water as soil conditions are dry in and around the Lawrence area. In addition, many trees have damaged root systems from three years of drought and are struggling to use the water in the soil already.

Controlling pesky wasps dangerous
Sunday, July 20, 2003
Summer is a perfect time to sit in the shade and enjoy a tall, cold glass of sun-brewed tea. It also is peak time for angry wasps. The mild winter and abundance of other insects seems to have resulted in an unusually high population of both paper and the mud dauber type of wasps this year.

Water crucial to prevent end rot
Sunday, July 13, 2003
The summer heat and long days are perfect for growing tomatoes. With tomato harvest season beginning, gardeners are starting to inspect their crop a bit more closely. Unfortunately, gardeners are being disappointed by their findings -- malformed fruit with a dark patch on the blossom end.

Be prepared to counter chiggers
Sunday, July 6, 2003
After enjoying an extended weekend outdoors, many fireworks watchers are feeling the itch of an unwelcome parasite. The warm weather and high humidity have caused chigger populations to be at an all-time high. So, if you have red itchy welts around your ankles and waist, here is what you can do to protect yourself when spending time outside.

Mildew begins to surface on plants
Sunday, June 29, 2003
The longest day of the year has come and gone. As gardeners try to capitalize on every hour of sunlight, they are starting to find a powdery white growth taking over many of their plants. The warm weather mixed with ample rain has set the stage for a family of fungi known as powdery mildew. If you are in the garden this week and notice green leaves turning white, here is what you need to do to help these plants turn healthy again.

Simple techniques eradicate slime mold
Sunday, June 22, 2003
The mild days of spring are slowly giving way to the heat of summer.

Maintaining tomatoes takes work
Sunday, June 15, 2003
Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables in the home garden.

Bagworms grow quickly on trees, shrubs
Sunday, June 8, 2003
A gardening colleague once told me that now was the best time to treat for bagworms. I asked him what made him think of that. His response was because the Catalpa trees are in bloom. Some gardeners garden according to the moon while others garden by observing indicator plants. As it turns out, Catalpa trees are a good indicator of the emergence of bagworms.

Fungal disease can overtake many trees
Sunday, June 1, 2003
Although the timely rains have been great for gardening, they also have created an environment for many tree diseases to develop, including Anthracnose. Many trees in Lawrence have sparse canopies or leaves that are drying up and falling off. So, if it looks like fall in your yard this spring, here may be the cause and the cure.

Mushrooms part of natural environment
Sunday, May 18, 2003
Since our landscapes have enjoyed a cool, moist spring, it is time to concentrate on summer. The warmer, drier conditions will mean less mowing and weed pulling, and more time for other leisurely activities.

Fertilizer needs to be applied soon to lawns
Sunday, May 11, 2003
Awesome is the only way to describe the power of nature. It is amazing how something so beautiful can become so destructive and deadly.

Proper clothing helps defend attack of ticks
Sunday, May 4, 2003
Mushroom hunting season has come and gone. But mushrooms were not all "shroom" hunters found in the woods. Ticks are back and it seemed that they were abundant this year.

Many plants vulnerable to changes in temperature
Sunday, April 13, 2003
The recent cold temperatures were a grim reminder that winter still has powerful influence over our weather and our landscapes. Luckily, most of the emerging plant material seemed to have survived quite nicely. Nevertheless, with the chance of more cool nights still ahead, here is what you can expect if the thermometer drops below freezing again.

Herbicides necessary to control weeds early
Sunday, April 6, 2003
The weather has finally turned nice and many gardeners have been out planting vegetables.

Treatment necessary to counter ants
Sunday, March 30, 2003
For many of us, our homes are safe, warm and perfect for raising families. Unfortunately, many pests have realized this as well.

Mowing height can influence spring grass
Sunday, March 23, 2003
My itchy, watery eyes and runny nose mean spring has arrived. Soon it will be time to fire up the lawn mower and the trimmer. This time of year, I always hear discussions about two basic lawn care practices: "How low should I mow?" and "should I fertilize my lawn now?" Both practices can have influence how your grass grows this spring.

Selection, location critical for starting plants indoors
Sunday, March 16, 2003
The days are getting longer and the spring flowering bulbs are starting to push their heads through the thawing soil. Soon it will be spring -- in full force. It is time, once again, to turn our attention toward gardening.

Timing critical for spring blooming bulbs
Sunday, March 2, 2003
A light snow cover combined with near record cold temperatures can not change the fact spring is right around the corner. After enjoying a rather mild winter, the recent shift in temperatures was a rude awakening to what our climate should be like.

Be careful in selecting perfect plants
Sunday, February 23, 2003
Last week, I discussed the steps gardeners should take when selecting trees and shrubs for the landscape. If you did your homework, you now have a list of plants and an appropriate place to plant them. Now you are ready to shop.

Do homework before picking your plants
Sunday, February 16, 2003
Spring is traditionally the ideal time to plant ornamental trees and shrubs. Warm days, regular rains and cool nights help plants prepare for the heat of summer.

Flowers are worth preserving
Sunday, February 9, 2003
If you look around town, retail stores and gift shops are overflowing with heart-shaped candies and bouquets of fresh cut flowers. Both can be used to tell that certain someone just how special they are to you. Unfortunately, the flowers given by a sweetheart may not last as long as their love.

Now is time to ponder overseeding
Sunday, February 2, 2003
Now that the snow has melted and the streets are full of salty grime, we are once again faced with the harsh reality of the damage left from a hot, dry summer.

Program provides horticulture training
Sunday, January 26, 2003
Near record temperatures make it difficult to think about gardening this time of year. Nevertheless, it is time to dust off the gardening books, warm the brain and head to class.

Several plants worth looking at for new year
Sunday, January 19, 2003
As anxious gardeners patiently wait for the white blanket of snow to slowly fade, flowers, trees and shrubs are benefiting from this mid-winter drink. Many plants have suffered from lack of water these past few months.

It is time to prune dormant trees
Sunday, January 12, 2003
We normally do not think of January as being a good time to be out in the garden. Cold temperatures and dormant plants are two good reasons to stay indoors. However, these mild winter days have been ideal for getting an early start on spring pruning of trees.

Trapping is best method to fight moles
Sunday, January 5, 2003
It seems lately that the normal in nature has become the rare, and that the unusual has become the common. Being the first of January, we are usually locked in the grip of 'Ol Man Winter anxiously awaiting the arrival of spring.

Mowers require care in offseason
Sunday, December 22, 2002
Although the calendar shows today that it's the start of winter, the temperature and weather forecast paint a different picture.

Fireplace ashes need to be disposed properly
Sunday, December 15, 2002
Many people prefer the warmth and smells of a real wood fire. The snaps, crackles, and pops add magic and excitement to any family gathering. But after the hot embers cool, and a pile of ash is all that remains, homeowners are left wondering what to do with all those ashes.

Materials for de-icing wreak havoc
Sunday, December 8, 2002
As the upper midwest awaits the first major snowfall of the year, our friends to the south and east continue to clean up after their early storm.

Plants make for pleasant holiday gifts
Sunday, December 1, 2002

Organic materials help enrich soil
Sunday, November 24, 2002
Most gardeners know building a deep rich soil is the key to success when it comes to growing flowers and vegetables.

It's time to put roses to rest for winter
Sunday, November 17, 2002
One of the most majestic and well recognized plants in the home landscape is the rose. Though most shrub roses are hardy in Kansas, other types of roses can be more tender.

Mild weather allows us time to finish work before winter
Sunday, November 10, 2002
The wonderfully mild temperatures have allowed us to spend one last weekend outdoors. Although many gardeners have put their tools away for the winter, there are still a few gardening chores that need tending. Here is a brief list of flower-bed to-do’s that need to be finished before winter sets in.

Winter weeds need to be controlled
Sunday, November 3, 2002
The recent rains and cool nights have done wonders for our cool season lawns. Unfortunately, they are exactly what winter annual weeds need as well.

Boxelder bugs wreak havoc in winter
Sunday, October 27, 2002
Many of us gardeners are preparing to spend the next five months indoors, out of the elements where it is warm and dry. Unfortunately, there are several outdoor pests preparing to do the same.

Fall is time to fertilize spring bulbs
Sunday, October 20, 2002
The sunny days and mild temperatures have helped make fall gardening chores rather enjoyable. Many gardeners are finishing up those outdoor chores in anticipation of the approaching cold weather.

Fallen leaves turn clay dirt into rich soil
Sunday, October 13, 2002
The recent rains and cool evenings are a welcomed relief from the heat and drought of summer. Also a welcomed sight are the falling leaves. Not because they signal the end of summer, but because they can be converted into precious organic matter.

Damage control: fall period critical to rebuilding lawn
Sunday, September 29, 2002
Unfortunately, we are ending an unusually dry summer with and unusually dry fall. The lack of rain has made it difficult to overseed and fertilize cool season lawns. Nevertheless, it is time to start helping what is left of the lawns recover.

It's not easy being evergreen
Sunday, September 22, 2002
The heat and drought have been tough on trees — especially the evergreens. Spruce, fir and pines are not well adapted to local growing conditions. And a high stress year like this one has led to decline and death.

To seed or not to seed
Sunday, September 15, 2002
Many gardeners consider fall the best time of the year. Warm days and cool nights help rejuvenate an otherwise lackluster landscape. However, sparse rains and late season heat have left many homeowners asking, "Is my lawn still alive?" A logical question as once lush green grass looks brown and dead.

Attack of the fruit fly
Sunday, September 8, 2002
The hot dry weather has not slowed the fall harvest. Many gardeners are still able to enjoy a vine-ripe tomato or cucumber. Unfortunately, this late in the season when harvesting the produce fresh fruit is not all that is being brought into the home.

K-31 seed: productive grass maker
Sunday, September 1, 2002
The hot summer sun and less-than-normal rainfall have left many lawns in dire need of repair. Luckily, fall is traditionally the ideal time to renovate cool season lawns such as fescue, Bluegrass, and ryegrass.

Pest control can be baffling
Sunday, August 18, 2002
Many gardeners have been battling a variety of pests this season — and even the best gardener can run into tough times once in a while.

Vegetables can be seeded soon
Sunday, August 11, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

We normally associate cabbage, carrots and broccoli with the spring garden. However, these and other vegetables can grow quite well in the fall. If the hot weather and high humidity of summer has not deterred your gardening enthusiasm, try planting a fall vegetable garden this month.

Brown grass does not mean it's dead
Sunday, August 4, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

As the county fair comes to a close today, summer vacation is nearing the end as well. Unfortunately, the heat and drought are far from over. By now, many plants in the landscape are showing signs of the oppressive heat.

'Hoppers cause havoc
Sunday, July 28, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

The summer heat is nothing short of oppressive. What little water we are able to apply only evaporates as the sun bakes the soil. Although many of our plants are barely hanging on, one insect pest is thriving — grasshoppers. Grasshoppers can be a thorn in any flower garden.

Soap, water can combat spider mites
Sunday, July 21, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

The summer sun is hot, and the heavy clay soil is cracking — two signs that the July heat is here for a while. Also there are spider mites.

Blossom-rot's due to a lack of calcium
Sunday, July 14, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

There is little more satisfying than harvesting that first vine ripe tomato from the garden. And there is nothing more disappointing than having to throw it away because it is malformed with a dark patch on the blossom end.

When it comes to trees and shrubs, water deep
Sunday, June 30, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

"Maybe I should — but how much do I need to?" "Maybe it will rain — but will that be good enough?" "I've thought about it — but when is the best time to do it?" Now that the summer heat has set in and the soil is getting rather dry, many gardeners are asking: " Should I be watering?"

Slime mold looks worse than it is
Sunday, June 23, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

Now that the lawns have enjoyed a wonderfully cool moist spring, it is time to look ahead toward summer.

Untamed clover will rove all over
Sunday, June 16, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

One of the best ways to spend summer is outside in the garden pulling weeds and keeping the lawn mowed. However, I woke the other morning and thought it had snowed because the entire back yard was white.

Timing counts in controlling bagworms
Sunday, June 9, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

In the gardening world, timing means everything. For example, you have to apply crabgrass preventer in the spring before weeds emerge, and spray for peach leaf curl before it damages your peach trees.

Stray cats can damage garden
Sunday, June 2, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

It has long been said that a dog is man's best friend. It's a saying that has sparked disagreement between dog and cat owners since it was first uttered. Nevertheless, domesticated animals play an important role in our everyday lives. Their companionship and dependency provide hours of entertainment and a feeling of comfort.

Rainy season makes fungal diseases fester
Sunday, May 26, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

The cool, rainy weather the past several weeks has been ideal for gardening. Unfortunately, it has also been perfect for the development of several fungal diseases of shade trees. Probably the most noticeable is sycamore anthracnose.

The weed battle begins
Sunday, May 19, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

The signs of a well-cared-for landscape are nicely mulched weed-free flower beds. Unfortunately, these nasty invaders can grow in some pretty small areas and surprise us with their existence seemingly overnight.

Assess storm damage before doing most cleanup
Sunday, May 12, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

One of the most discouraging aspects of living in the Great Plains is the sudden, violent storms. With strong winds, hail and flash flooding, landscape plants are at the mercy of Mother Nature.

Protect pines from sawflies
Sunday, May 5, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

Pine trees are an interesting and important focal point in any landscape. However, a pine tree with no needles becomes a focal point for the wrong reasons.

It's best to take control early with weeds
Sunday, March 31, 2002
By Bruce Chladney

Flowers are starting to bloom, seemingly dead plants are coming back to life and allergies continue to go wild. Spring is welcome at my home — everything but the drippy nose and the pesky lawn weeds.

To improve garden soil, go organic
Sunday, March 24, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

Winter snow and early spring rains have helped to ease the pain of last summer's drying heat. As a result, most of our garden soils are wet and mucky. Although spring planting of potatoes and other cool-season crops is well under way, working the garden soil now is not a good idea.

Unwelcome visitors can raise a spring stink
Sunday, March 3, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

As you drive through the community, you will start to notice that spring is in the air. It's not because tree buds are beginning to swell or that crocus are blooming in the flower beds.

Mole invasion often damaging
Sunday, February 24, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

Now that the days are getting warmer and soil temperatures are on the rise, we are starting to see more activity from a dreaded gardening companion. Moles are rarely welcome in the home landscape.

Springlike weather can mislead plants
Sunday, February 17, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

By now you've probably heard that the most popular predictor of spring saw his shadow on Groundhog Day. And the long-standing tradition is if the groundhog sees his shadow, we have six more weeks of winter.

Trees need aid after ice damage
Sunday, February 3, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

With this latest round of heavy sleet and ice, many trees are in desperate need of major injury repair. Ice accumulations of up to 2 inches have caused major branches to crack and fall under this impressive weight.

Winter garden can offer interest
Sunday, January 27, 2002
By Bruce Chladny

Landscapes tend to be drab and boring this time of year. However, careful planning and the addition of a few plants can result in winter gardens with more color and interest. Choose the vantage point from which the garden will typically be enjoyed in winter and develop planting beds that are easily seen from this area.

Flying psyllids fill autumn skies
Sunday, October 21, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

The warm autumn weather has been rather enjoyable. Late-season chores such as garden cleanup and leaf raking are going well. Well, except for the tiny pest called Hackberry psyllids. For the last several weeks, homeowners with Hackberry trees have been annoyed by the unwelcome visitors. The tiny bugs, sometimes called "jumping plant lice," resemble miniature cicadas.

Stop weeds while they are still seeds
Sunday, September 16, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Weeds are a regular part of any lawn or landscape. With foxtail and crabgrass two of the most common weeds found this summer, it is now time to turn our attention to cool-season weeds.

Renovation will help bring lawn back to life
Sunday, August 26, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Editor's note: This is the first of a series of columns on lawn care.
As the summer heat begins to cool and timely rains start to fall, many homeowners are asking "Is my grass still alive?" It's a logical question, as once-lush green lawns look brown and dead. With the best time of year to overseed and renovate your turf just around the corner, here are some helpful tips to get your fall lawn-care program off to a good start.

Iron-poor trees need assistance
Sunday, July 22, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Mature trees are an important part of any home landscape. Keeping them healthy can be a challenge in the summer heat. A physiological condition known as iron chlorosis is not making it any easier. Caused by a lack of iron, chlorosis causes leaves to turn pale green to yellow while the veins remain a deep green color.

Roly-polys do more annoying than destroying
Sunday, July 1, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

The arrival of summer means warmer temperatures and less rainfall. Unfortunately, it also means a fresh supply of insects. Many gardeners and homeowners are fretting over the invasion of one such unwelcome guest. Pillbugs — commonly called roly-polys — are the 3/8-inch grayish bugs that roll up in a ball when disturbed.

Don't touch 'leaves of three'
Sunday, June 24, 2001
As many children head off to summer camps, it brings to mind an old saying I remember learning when I was younger. However, I find myself using it more and more — even when I'm gardening.

Treat fire ants with caution
Sunday, May 13, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

With the recent discovery of red fire ants in our community, some gardeners are choosing to spend more time indoors for fear of being attacked. A variety of native ants in the landscape has people wondering: Are they or aren't they the dreaded fire ant?

Evergreen trees pining for care
Sunday, May 6, 2001
Now that deciduous trees and shrubs have produced their summer cover, the evergreen trees are quickly forgotten. However, one trip through the countryside reminds us that pine trees still need attention.

Wilt still a threat to pine trees
Sunday, April 22, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

As you drive around town, you may notice that many pine trees are suffering. In fact, I routinely ask myself: "I wonder what killed that tree?"

Stopping seeds key to control of these weeds
Sunday, April 15, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Flowers are starting to bloom, seemingly dead plants are coming back to life and allergies continue to go wild. At my home, everything about spring is welcome but the drippy nose and the winter annual weeds henbit and chickweed.

Take action to win turf battle with crabgrass
Sunday, April 8, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

For the most part, home lawns in our area are either cool-season grasses, warm-season grasses or a combination of both. Cool-season grasses grow better in the summer north of here and warm-season grasses survive winters better south of here.

Pruning helps garden roses rise to occasion
Sunday, April 1, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Pruning plants to keep them vigorous and healthy is an important part of creating a beautiful floral display. A popular landscape plant that benefits from such an annual pruning is the rose.

Proper procedure plants roots for success
Sunday, March 25, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Kansas Arbor Day is March 30 — the last Friday of the month. In keeping with the spirit and the tradition of the holiday, many families, schools, churches and civic organizations will plant trees on or near this day.

No need to protect sprouting bulbs
Sunday, March 4, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

The recent warm days have caused many of the spring blooming bulbs to begin poking their heads above ground. As these indicators of spring begin to wake from a long winter's nap, our first instinct is to protect them from the frosty cold.

Spraying now can help control peach leaf curl later
Sunday, February 25, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

It is still a little early to think about picking ripe peaches off trees. However, it is not too early to consider control of peach leaf curl. Peach leaf curl is a fungal disease that infects both peaches and nectarines.

Storm-damaged trees may be able to be saved, repaired
Sunday, February 18, 2001
It seems lately that the only sure thing about the weather is that you can never be to sure about the weather. One day the sun is warm and bright, the next we are in the middle of an icy snow storm.

Proper care can help Valentine roses last longer
Sunday, February 11, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, loved ones are in a desperate search for that perfect gift of love. One popular expression of affection is a beautiful bouquet of freshly cut flowers.

Road salt can harm shrubs, landscape plants
Sunday, January 14, 2001
By Bruce Chladny

Now that the pure white snow has been reduced to dingy piles along roadsides and parking lots, we can finally enjoy a temporary reprieve from winter's grip.

Christmas trees can make great wildlife habitats
Sunday, December 24, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

The Christmas holiday always seems to come and go so quickly. By the time we get the tree decorated and the outside lights to work properly, it's time to take the lights all down and pack them away until next year.

Unusual growing season keeps leaves hanging around
Sunday, December 10, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

The onset of cooler weather reminds us that winter is just around the corner. However, if you look at many of the deciduous trees, they tell a different story. Usually free of leaves by now, many of the trees have been slow to shed their summer cover. If you're curious why your trees have not shed their leaves, here is the reason why and what needs to be done about it.

Wood ashes don't add nutrients
Sunday, December 3, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

With the onset of cold weather and the burning of fireplaces, many gardeners are asking if the wood ashes are good to use as garden or flowerbed fertilizer. In a nut shell — not really.

Houseplant care should change during winter
Sunday, November 19, 2000
During the short days of winter, houseplant growth slows. That means we need to change how we care for them.

Leaves provide nutrients to your soil
Sunday, November 5, 2000
Although Mother Nature did not impress us with a spectacular fall display of red, orange and gold this year. She did, however, bless gardeners with an abundant amount of precious organic material in the form of leaves. Fall is the time when leaves begin to collect on our lawns, flower beds and in our gutters.

Box elder bugs still a concern? Try these tips
Sunday, October 29, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

The cold days of winter are just around the corner — we know it and bugs know it. As a result, fall is traditionally the time of year when homes are swarmed by late season pests such as box elder bugs. This year is no exception.

Two weeds leave gardeners feeling a bit foul
Sunday, October 22, 2000
Henbit and chickweed are two weeds most of us do not think about until we see them blooming in spring. Chances are, however, that both of these weeds are growing in your yard, garden or flower bed right now. Considered self-seeding winter annual weeds, the seeds from last spring's flowers are beginning to germinate and grow this fall.

Give bulbs a good start
Sunday, October 15, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

A sure sign of spring is the bright colors of flowering bulbs. However, the dazzling display begins long before the warm days of April and May. Late September through October is the best time to plant spring-flowering bulbs such as crocus, tulips and daffodils.

Give the garden a good cleaning
Sunday, September 24, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

If you're like me, this hot dry summer has taken all the fun out of a fall garden. However, as the days shorten and the nights cool, fall garden cleanup needs to be put on your list of gardening activities for the weekend.

Choose the newer cool-season turf varieties for overseeding
Sunday, September 17, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

Fall is traditionally the ideal time to over-seed and re-plant cool-season lawns with fescue, bluegrass and ryegrass. The mild night temperatures, the timely rains and ideal growing conditions help seeds germinate and establish root systems quickly. So, if your lawn needs major attention, or there are just a few bare spots to fill, consider using a turf-type tall fescue to get the job done.

Shrubs offer fall color
Sunday, September 3, 2000
By Bruce Chladny
Horticulture agent at K-State Reasearch and Extension-Douglas County

We normally think of woody plants flowering in the spring or early summer. But there are, however, several shrubs that flower later in the growing season. When selecting shrubs to plant this fall, consider some of these as they can add late season color to the landscape.

Euonymus scale can be tough to tackle
Sunday, August 27, 2000
By Bruce Chladny
Garden Calendar

Euonymus are some of the most popular and commonplace landscape plants in the home landscape. Their waxy foliage, drought tolerance and diverse growth habit make them inviting when shopping the local garden centers.

Trees are hot and bothered
Sunday, August 20, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

The focal point of many landscapes are majestic trees that have lived through a variety of stresses. Unfortunately, environmental stress can take its toll on newly planted and mature trees alike. If your tree is losing leaves, turning red or blooming, you are not alone. Here are some tips to help your trees survive this growing season.

Iris: Now is the time to lift and separate
Sunday, August 13, 2000
By Bruce Chladny

Bearded iris are well adapted to eastern Kansas and multiply quickly. After several years, the centers of the clumps tend to lose vigor with most of the flowering occurring toward the outside.

Seeing red?
Sunday, August 6, 2000
By Bruce Chladny
Special to the Journal-World

Tomatoes are the most popular vegetable grown in home gardens. And this is the time of year when the tasty ripe fruit are best enjoyed. However, I have heard several gardeners complain that their tomatoes are slow to ripen.