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Home & Garden readers might also want to read Keep it Green, a gardening column by Michael Womack.

Saturday, July 21, 2001
Garden Tips

Vinegar weed killer
   Mix 1 gallon white vinegar, 1 pound table salt and 1 tablespoon liquid dish-washing soap and pour into a small pressure sprayer. It's great for killing weeds in walkways, around trees, etc., but do not get the concoction on anything you do not want to kill because it's potent. The mixture lasts for several months; store extra in a separate container such as a gallon milk jug. Clean out your sprayer thoroughly because the mixture can ruin rubber gaskets, etc. in the sprayer.
   Transplant tip
   If you want to transplant a large shrub or tree this fall, do some root pruning on it this summer. Using a sharp shovel, dig down, cutting one third of the plant's roots about 6- to 8- inches deep. Several weeks later, cut another third of the roots; weeks later, cut the final third roots. This gets the plant used to the fact it will be transplanted. Move the plant between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15, keeping it watered weekly throughout fall.
   Natural drain cleaner
   Baking soda is a mild abrasive so it cleanses powerfully and gently without having to worry about scratching. It's great for cleaning and deodorizing cutting boards, stovetops, stainless steel sinks and other kitchen spaces and supplies. Don't forget to sprinkle some baking soda down the sink drain and garbage disposal to get rid of musty odors. Rid outdoor chairs, chaises and tables of mildew, stains and dirt using ¼ cup solution of baking soda in one quart of warm water; rinse clean.
   Brew compost tea
   Most gardeners appreciate the benefits compost adds to their garden. This year, try brewing some compost tea for even greater benefits. Research shows an application of compost tea significantly improves disease resistance and increases soil microorganisms, says Virginia Cooperative Extension agent Traci Gilland.
   Compost teas are easy to brew, but adhere to two rules. First, use only high quality, fully decomposed compost. Second, provide adequate aeration. Combine compost and water at a ratio of 1 to 5, aerate the mixture with a couple fish tank aerators and allow to "brew" for 5 to 7 days. Strain the mixture and apply to garden plants and lawns. If the mixture smells sour, do not use!
   Tight fridge test
   Test the seal on your refrigerator or freezer periodically by closing the door on a dollar bill. If it pulls out easily, you may need a new gasket.
   Greensand helps tomatoes
   Use greensand around your tomatoes to improve their taste and health. Greensand contains vitamins and minerals, including potash, phosphate and many trace minerals. Greens - and bluish-green iron-potassium silicate mined in the southern part of New Jersey - loosens heavy clay soil around any plant in your garden, giving you better drainage in heavy clay soil; greensand also helps bind sandy soil. Apply 5 to 10 pounds per 100 square feet. Look for the Espoma brand of greensand at local garden centers.


From Caller-Times, wire services

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