Be a Smart Gardener

Gardeners aim to grow good produce or nurture lovely lawns and landscaping. “Smart gardeners” obtain those goals with earth-friendly techniques that can save money. Here you will find resources to become a smart gardener. Our advice is based on science performed at Michigan State University or other land grant universities.

Simple ways to start smart gardening

Smart lawns

• Mow at the highest setting to promote deep roots, avoid grub damage and crowd out weeds.
• Mulch leaves and grass clippings into the lawn to recycle nutrients.
• Tipsheets: Mow high, mulch leaves, and smart watering

Smart plants

• Select native or well-adapted plants, trees and shrubs to simplify meeting the plant’s needs.
• Tipsheets: Native plants, lakefront plants, and trees and shrubs

Smart soils

• Don’t guess, soil test to ensure an effective balance of nutrients.
• Tipsheets: Soil test, fertilizer basics, and reducing phosphorus

Internet gardening programs

View Creatures, Plagues & Apocalyptic Problems to learn about insects, diseases and environmental vegetable problems. Please make sure to evaluate the class. Master Gardeners receive 1 continuing education credit for each 1 hour of a presentation viewed.

Search for MSUE Home Gardening News past articles at MSUE Home Gardening.