In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike dives into the controversial topic of "No Mow May" and why he believes it's not beneficial for your lawn or the environment. He addresses the myths surrounding pollinators and the necessity of honeybees for plant growth, providing a fresh perspective on lawn care and maintenance during the spring season.

Key Topics & Caller Questions:

• No Mow May Debate: Mike critiques the "No Mow May" initiative, arguing that allowing grass to grow unchecked can harm your lawn and attract unwanted pests.

• Grass Clippings and Raspberries: A caller asks if it's safe to use grass clippings as mulch around raspberry plants, and Mike explains the potential issues with moisture and mold.

• Squirrel Deterrents: Mike offers creative solutions for keeping squirrels out of gardens, including the use of cayenne pepper and bird netting.

• Garden Tilling Techniques: A listener inquires about the necessity of extensive tilling, and Mike shares insights on effective soil preparation without overdoing it.

• Understanding Pollination: Mike debunks common myths about honeybees and emphasizes that many plants can thrive without them, drawing on historical examples.

This episode is filled with practical advice, lively discussions, and a dose of humor, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their gardening knowledge this spring. Tune in for expert tips that will help you cultivate a healthy and vibrant lawn!

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In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike tackles the exciting world of spring gardening and shares his top tips for planning your garden effectively. He emphasizes the importance of creating a garden map to avoid overspending on plants and offers practical advice on how to propagate dogwood bushes and what to do about pesky spruce trees affected by disease.

Key Topics & Caller Questions:

• Creating a Garden Map: Mike discusses how to sketch out your garden layout to ensure you buy the right amount of plants and avoid overcrowding.

• Dogwood Propagation: A caller asks about propagating dogwood bushes, and Mike provides step-by-step instructions for successful cuttings.

• Replacing Spruce Trees: Mike advises on suitable replacements for spruce trees affected by disease, suggesting white pine as a resilient option.

• Spring Raking Tips: A listener inquires about the best time to rake their lawn, and Mike shares his insights on soil moisture and timing.

• Managing Moles: Mike gives practical advice on dealing with moles in your yard, including effective baiting techniques.

• Grass Growth Around Trees: A caller seeks advice on growing grass around a honey locust tree, and Mike discusses aeration and watering strategies.

This episode is packed with valuable information for gardeners looking to kick off the season right, featuring practical tips and expert insights that will help you cultivate a thriving garden. Don't miss out on Mike's lively discussion and expert advice!

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Spring is here—and so are the bugs! In this episode, Mike dives into practical tips for keeping mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks at bay, so you can actually enjoy your yard without the bites. Learn the do’s and don’ts of bug zappers, why DEET isn’t as scary as it sounds, and how an unexpected drugstore body spray (hint: vanilla!) can be your secret weapon.

Plus, Mike answers listener questions about:

• Saving winter-damaged boxwoods 🌿

• Battling invasive zoysia grass 🌱

• The right time to rake and clean up your lawn 🍂

And if you’re out near Lake Onalaska—don’t miss the pelican migration!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.