Home and Garden Information Center

Blue spruce with symptoms of Cytospora canker. Dr. Dave Clement, University of Maryland Extension Plant Pathologist, explains two common diseases of this popular evergreen tree. Colorado blue spruce trees, although not native or adapted to Maryland, are commonly planted in landscapes for their...

How to Manage Stormwater in the Chesapeake Bay Region Flexible tubing diverting water from downspouts to be absorbed in yard HGIC has gathered useful resources to help manage storm water, ponding, poor drainage, sinkhole, water run-off, soil erosion, and basement flooding issues. For problems with...

Warmer winters, hotter summers, flooding and drought affect plant growth and impact the many organisms that interact with plants (pest insects, pollinators, diseases, microbes). The climate-related changes that have already occurred require that steps be taken to devise and adopt growing practices...

Mulberry Weed or Hairy Crabweed Fatoua villosa Photo: Christine McComas, University of Maryland Extension Life cycle: Summer annual Appearance and growth habit: Leaves are triangular in shape, alternate along the stem, yellow-green in color, with prominent veins and toothed margins; prominent hairs...

Poor suburban soil - source: MAPSS/WCSS Why is soil important for plant growth and health? Soils provide water , air, nutrients , and mechanical support for plants. Soils also tie-up, filter, and break down natural and man-made toxins. Soils sustain all life on Earth and may be the most important,...

Bilingual Educational Resource Poster (English and Spanish) Invasive Species of Concern Poster (6,183 KB) Poster (18,711 KB) I am a gardener why should I care about invasive species? Invasive and Exotic Species of North America Invasive.org - Frequently Asked Questions on Invasives

Rosemary topiaries shaped like a Christmas tree are great gifts to give and receive. If you are the lucky recipient, you should know a few things about how to care for rosemary indoors. First of all, rosemary is tricky to grow inside. A rosemary topiary has been grown under controlled conditions in...

Resources Specific to Maryland Maryland Invasive Species Council Maryland’s Wild Acres, Bad Plants Planted by Good People Maryland Dept. of Agriculture - MD Invasive Plants Prevention and Control. (PDF) Columbia Association Weed Warrior Training Lecture of 9/10/16 Invasive Barberry Volunteer for...

Resources (PDF) - Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping in Maryland Chesapeake Bay Native Plant Selector Chesapeake Conservation Landscaping Council Maryland Native Plant Society (PDF) - Maryland Native Plant Society Booklet- Landscaping with Native Plants Virginia...

Important Questions to Ask Before Planting What types of fruit are best suited for the climate and soils in your location? Where in the landscape do you want these trees or plants placed and how much space is required? How much time and resources are needed on a regular basis to maintain fruit...