Evidence-based approaches for sustainable practices in home gardens and landscapes on Vancouver Island. Additional resources include FireSmart BC and the Invasive Species Council of BC.
Most annuals have a fleshy, non-woody root system that develops from the branching of the taproot (the first root to emerge from the seed). Plants with fibrous root systems, such as grasses, have thin and moderately branching roots that develop from the stem without any primary roots. This article will teach you how to transplant …
A wide variety of beneficial insects can be found on Vancouver Island and within the greater Pacific Northwest. These beneficial insects are key in supporting healthy garden ecosystems. And while most home gardeners are familiar with pollinators like bees, butterflies, wasps & flies, there are a whole host of other beneficial insects that act as …
What is Mulch? Mulch is a protective layer of organic or inorganic material spread over the soil. Choosing the right type of mulch for your particular landscape will depend on various factors (see the table below). The answer to which type of mulch to use is: it depends! Properties of Ideal Mulch Ideal mulches have …
There is a new invasive stink bug on its way to our vegetable gardens. Read about it, as well as the invasive brown marmorated stink bug, in this article shared by the Invasive Species Council.
VIMGA’s own Jacqueline Sherk participated in a pilot project for removal of yellow flag iris, a pervasive and difficult to control invasive plant in BC. Read the article to learn about this promising method of controlling the spread of this very difficult to eradicate plant.
In this article we will explore the current evidence-based approaches to preparing the garden for winter. Below you will learn how to protect soils from erosion, save perennial bulbs and shrubs from damaging frosts and protect overwintering vegetables from pests and depredation, plus many more essential tips. “More work now when it is still warm, …
Resources Canada revised the Canadian plant hardiness zones in 2025 to help growers make better choices of plants that will grow in their area. This article explores how our northern latitudes affect gardening in the same way altitude does. Article written by Jo-Ann Canning, VIMGA CMG.
Just getting rid of invasive plants may not be enough to allow the ecosystem to recover. Read about the unexpected changes to the soil as well as the long-term environmental impacts of efforts to remove them. By Master Gardener Whitney Peek.
