Since we have many new residents, I will introduce myself. I have lived in Mountain Valley for 13 years and have been Chairman of the Beautification Committee for 11 years. I moved here from Michigan (Zone 5) to our Zone 7. So there was a little learning curve but much overlap in practice. While in Michigan I attended The Michigan School of Gardening which was a “continuing education” type offering but quite comprehensive. Since living here I have consulted several resources which are easily accessible and also comprehensive. I recommend these for answers to your questions since I would not presume to be knowledgeable in the incredible variety of questions you may have.
My intent is to pass along “timely tips” which coincide with what the Beautification Committee is doing monthly through the growing season as well as some basic information regarding “best practices” throughout the year. I will not be providing any information about warm season lawn (Bermuda, Zoysia, etc.) care or vegetable or fruit growing. Also, no information regarding hardscaping (retaining walls, etc.) or drainage and slope management.
These are the resources I use:
- NC State Extension Service. Type the subject in the SEARCH bar for online and print documents.
- The Mountain Gardener Newsletter. Sponsored by the Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of Buncombe County. They send a monthly email newsletter. They also have a gardening calendar you can purchase.
- Super Sod. Local sod growers. Search “Lawn Care by Grass Type”.
I will be sending my first “Timely Lawn & Landscape Tips” in a separate email since you may want to save or print it. I know I will as some advice does not change year to year, thank goodness! I sincerely hope you will understand that these tips are not sent with the intent of replacing or criticizing what practices and outcomes are working for you.
Here’s to us all finding our landscapes more beautiful!
Carol Walp
Beautification Committee Chairman