Elaine Bolen

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Garden Guides uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding gardening and landscaping, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert insight and tutorials from our talented team.

As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Elaine Bolen

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    Produce
    Produce By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022

    Diseases Found In Cow Manure

    Diseases Found in Cow Manure. Many people fertilize their gardens with composted cow manure but don't realize the hidden dangers. Cow manure may harbor diseases such as e. coli O157, listeriosis, salmonellosis, cryptosporidiosis and mad cow disease. These diseases are fecal to oral in transmission and may be passed to humans if vegetables from the garden are not properly washed. Protect your family and yourself by frequent hand washing and proper food preparation to avoid infection.

    By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022 Read More
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    Trees
    Trees By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022

    Trees Recommended For Kansas

    Trees Recommended for Kansas. Kansas weather can be extreme, with ranging temperatures of below 0 degrees F in the winter and in excess of 100 degrees F in the summer. A tree that grows well in Kansas needs to tolerate harsh temperatures, high winds and drought. There are many trees that adapt well to the state's conditions but are hardy and attractive. If you live in Kansas, choose a tree recommended for your state for the best end result.

    By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022 Read More
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    Produce
    Produce By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022

    Types Of Insecticide

    Types of Insecticide. An insecticide is any chemical that is used to control, kill or repel insects. There are four main types of insecticides: botanical, microbial, manufactured and inorganic. Botanical insecticides are plant extracts; microbial insecticides are microbe or bacterium based; manufactured insecticides are synthetic chemicals and inorganic insecticides are mostly mineral based. Because insecticides have different chemical makeups, they can vary in toxicity and effectiveness. Understanding the different types of insecticides available enable you to make a decision on which one is appropriate for your garden.

    By Elaine Bolen November 4th, 2022 Read More
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    Trees
    Trees By Elaine Bolen September 6th, 2022

    Problems With Magnolia Trees

    Problems With Magnolia Trees. The seeds from the large fragrant flowers of the magnolia attract migrating birds, as well as songbirds, to this ornamental tree. There are approximately 80 species of magnolia, with a height range spanning from 15 to 80 feet at maturity, according to the United States National Arboretum. Not only is the magnolia an attractive ornamental, but it is easy to grow, and there are many evergreen varieties. The magnolia may sound perfect but it is not free of problems. Learning about its disadvantages will help you make an informed decision on whether to decorate your lawn with this ornamental tree.

    By Elaine Bolen September 6th, 2022 Read More
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    Flowers
    Flowers By Elaine Bolen September 6th, 2022

    Common Lawn Weeds In Missouri

    Common Lawn Weeds in Missouri. If you live in Missouri, you know that having a beautiful lawn doesn't just happen; it is the result of a temporary triumph over weeds. Weeds are particularly hardy, invasive and difficult to eradicate once allowed to take hold. They can be either annual (lifecycle completes in one year) or perennial (lifecycle continues over a course of years). Recognizing weeds from other species of plants can be difficult. Identifying your state's most common lawn weeds is your first step towards eliminating them.

    By Elaine Bolen September 6th, 2022 Read More
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    Trees
    Trees By Elaine Bolen March 23rd, 2022

    Apple Trees To Grow In Kansas

    Apple Trees to Grow in Kansas. Growing apple trees in Kansas can be a challenge, so variety selection is important. Kansas is known for volatile weather. Late spring frosts can damage blooms, resulting in a fruitless season. Early fall frosts can damage late-season fruit on trees. If space is not limited, planting both early and mid-season blooming varieties may be an option. Jonagold, Gala, Empire, Golden Delicious and Red Delicious apple trees are all recommended varieties for Kansas, according to Kansas State University Research and Extension. Apple trees are most productive when cross-pollinated with other apple trees.

    By Elaine Bolen March 23rd, 2022 Read More