Current evidence-based information on everything related to soils: from soil science to mulch, compost, fertilization and more.
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 …
Gardening Newsletterby Linda GilkesonSeptember 10, 2026 As planting winds down and harvesting continues, here are some things to do this month: Tomato pruning: It is time to prune off new shoots and flower clusters on indeterminate (vining) varieties of tomatoes in the garden. Late flowers will set fruit too late to become mature tomatoes and …
Gardening Newsletterby Linda GilkesonMay 21, 2026 The news of this spring continues to be the extremely dry conditions early in the season and the looming forecast of a hotter and drier than average summer due to the effects of a strong El Niño. After over a month without a drop of rain, some coastal areas …
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, …
Vancouver Island Master Gardeners 