GoGardenNews - Items of gardening and ecological interest

Salt is good, right? We say someone is “salt of the earth” if they are virtuous. Salt is a valuable commodity, sometimes used for barter or as money. Roman soldiers received part of their salary – salarium – in salt. A worthless soldier (or slave) wasn't "worth his salt." But, salt can be a bad thing. Just ask any coastal gardener. Storm surges from hurricanes - even minor flooding - increase salt content in the soil.

When Hurricane Irma blew through the Southeast in 2017, the region’s agriculture was affected in various ways. Ayanava Majumdar, Extension entomologist for the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, pointed out that the storm could have unexpected consequences for farmers. It stands to reason that not only farmers would be affected, but gardeners, as well.

According to azcentral.com, a USA Today website, “first-ever mandatory water cutbacks will kick in next year along the Colorado River” due to significant lowering of water levels in Lake Mead. Lake Mead is a critical water reservoir for the American Southwest.

Arizona, Nevada and Mexico have signed agreements that will require them to take less water from the Colorado River. What does this mean for gardeners?

We plant lovers can't resist growing them indoors, often providing artificial light. Lights on during the day; lights off at night. That can take a toll on our electric bill, though. The more lights we burn, the more it costs us.

Scientists have learned that short intervals of light and dark can save electricity without effecting indoor crops.

"Spring often gets all the attention when it comes to flowers, especially flowering trees. Yet, there are several tree species that bloom in early to late summer.  In addition to their late bloom, these trees have other ornamental features that make them deserving of a spot in your landscape," writes Cindy Haynes, Iowa State University Department of Horticulture. Credit goes to Cindy Haynes, Horticulture and Home Pest News, and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.