Ask a Master Gardener

Question: Some of my neighbors in Central Virginia have reported termite damage on their properties. How can I tell if… Read More »Identifying, Preventing and Treating Termite Infestations

Question: Groundhogs have taken over my vegetable garden and eaten some crops almost entirely.  How do I get rid of… Read More »Controlling Groundhogs in the Garden

Question: Red imported fire ants (RIFA) have been reported in southeastern Virginia and some Virginia cities and counties have been… Read More »Red Imported Fire Ants in Virginia

Q: I am planning to install a raised bed vegetable garden irrigation system.  What are some things I should be… Read More »Planning a Vegetable Garden Irrigation System

Question: I’ve contracted to have a new home built and groundbreaking starts soon. What measures should be taken prior to… Read More »Protecting and Preserving Topsoil During New Home Construction

Question: How can I eradicate my golden bamboo patch? By Camille Keely, Piedmont Master Gardener Intern Golden bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea),… Read More »Eradicating Bamboo

By Bev Tavener, Piedmont Master Gardener Intern Question: My lawn area is generally pretty lush, but under my big oak,… Read More »Growing Grass in the Shade

By Carla Throckmorton, Piedmont Master Gardener Intern Question: I have been told to avoid the use of “neonicotinoids”. How can… Read More »Avoiding Neonicotinoids in Caring for Roses

Question:  I don’t have a green thumb.  What easy care houseplants can you recommend?  I’d like to have some showy… Read More »Easy Care Houseplants

Question:  Whenever it rains, water pools in low spots in my yard. How can I fix the problem myself inexpensively… Read More »Managing Stormwater Runoff With Rain Barrels and Rain Gardens