InfoSheets

Following are introductory information sheets on gardening topics. Many are answers to questions asked at VIMGA’s clinics, while others provide information on topics our VIMGA members have expertise in and are passionate about. 

If you have questions and you don’t see the answers here, reach out to our Master Gardeners through clinics and GAPs or by submitting your question(s) through the Garden Advice Line. 

Wishing you a fun and creative gardening year!

BENEFICIAL INSECTS

• How can I support local pollinators?
• Are there beneficial insects other than pollinators in my garden? (coming soon)

GARDEN FUNDAMENTALS

(Plant ID; Right Plant/Right Place; Soil; Winterizing the Garden; Fire Smart; Invasive Species…)

LINKS

FireSmart BC

Invasive Species Council of BC

• Can I use my phone to identify this plant?
• What kind of mulch is best?
• What are some steps I can take to put my garden to bed in the fall?

PERENNIALS

• How do I transplant annuals, grasses and other plants with non-woody root systems?

PESTS, DISEASES & WEEDS

• Are any plants really deer proof?

PROPAGATION

• What is the best way to root geraniums?
• What do I need to know about the seeds I am planting?
• How do I know if my seeds are still viable?

PRUNING

• What are the basic pruning cuts?
• What are the steps for pruning most plants?

TREES & SHRUBS

Rhododendrons & Azaleas

• What should I consider when choosing a rhododendron?
• How do I care for my rhododendrons?

Transplanting

• What is the best method for transplanting trees, shrubs & perennials? (a) Root Washing
• What is the best method for transplanting trees, shrubs & perennials? (b) Transplanting
• What are the steps to assure successful transplanting of bare root trees & shrubs?

VEGETABLES

Vegetables are organized by family. Vegetables of the same family are often susceptible to the same disease problems because they are botanically related…in particular the Allium (onion), Brassicaceae (mustard) and Solanaceae (potato or nightshade) families.

Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)

• What should I consider when choosing a tomato plant?
• How do I plant and care for my tomato plants?

DISCLAIMER: The VIMGA Clinic Data Sheets are property of the Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association (VIMGA) and are intended for educational purposes only. All information is science-based and accurate to the best of VIMGA’s knowledge. Commercial use of all or part of these documents is prohibited without express written consent from VIMGA. Use of the information offered therein is at the sole discretion, responsibility and liability of the user.