Crabgrass is a common warm-season annual that’s a member of the grass family. The problem is that most people don’t think of it as a grass and want it gone! There are two primary species of crabgrass: the large or hairy crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) and small… Read More
Flooded Lawn Repair
Many people in the Twin Cities area are experiencing lawns flooded by heavy rains or the overflow from streams, rivers and lakes. The University of Minnesota Extension Service warns that during periods of high temperatures and sunlight in the summer, water that ponds on a lawn… Read More
Organic Methods for Controlling Clover in Your Lawn
Clover, particularly white clover (Trifolium repens), is a hardy perennial often found in lawns because it thrives in almost any soil condition and can withstand foot traffic. Some homeowners embrace it because they appreciate its drought resistance and provides food for our pollinators. A field of clover can be… Read More
Perennial Care
Perennials started popping up earlier than normal this spring. And our steady rains have helped mine thrive and I hope yours have, too. But we still need to make sure we do what’s needed to help them succeed through all the conditions a Minnesota summer will… Read More
Identifying and Controlling Grub Damage
Chances are you’ve got some – or a lot of – grub damage this year. We’ve addressed this issue in a number of communities throughout the Twin Cities the past few years. How do you know if you’ve got grubs or not? Our friends at the… Read More
Handle Spring Weeds Now or Pay the Price Later
Weeds have been resting all winter and can’t wait to shoot through and start growing.
When to use Rock or Wood Mulch to Protect Soil
Soil requires protection from the elements to prevent erosion and nutrient depletion. Grass or alternative turf solutions are typically the answer for most of the yard. Turf, however, often isn’t an option in other areas like around trees, plantings, home foundations, and on steep slopes and… Read More
Winter Love for Untidy Lawns & Gardens
A yard without leaves and a garden without dead stalks sticking up all winter long brings a sense of satisfaction. But at Organic Bob we promote a love of untidy lawns and gardens. These organic materials serve to nurture the soil and also provide shelter for… Read More
How to Protect Plants in the Winter
Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds are a fact of life during the winter. But this drastic change in climate conditions can also spell trouble for outdoor plants. Though you can transport many container plants indoors, landscaping plants like trees or shrubs aren’t meant to… Read More
Treating Grass After a Frost
The first frost of the year has come and gone. Yet, temperatures continue to fluctuate as we head into the winter months. Depending on where you live in the Midwest, local temperatures can jump to 50°F (or above) in the daytime and fall below 32°F at… Read More