Belleville News Democrat: Charles Giedeman

Propagation needs bit of patience and timing

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 02:12 CDT

Q. I received a red-flowering impatiens with variegated leaves about three years ago. I have been able to make stem cuttings from this plant, but I have saved seeds from these plants and they will not germinate. What special treatments do these seeds need for successful germination?

Giedeman on gardening: Taking care of your strawberry patch

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:16 CDT

Q: I have a strawberry patch and have finished harvesting the berries. A neighbor said this is the time to renovate the patch so that I have a good harvest next year. I have had the patch here for about five years. How do I renovate strawberries?

How to cut lawn costs

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:11 CDT

Q. With the price of gasoline so high, what can I do to make my grass grow slower so that I do not have to mow it so often? Also, what other ideas can be used to keep the cost of lawn areas down?