Farming

The rules on amending the soil have changed over the years.
Part of the change relates to the fact that good soil is hard to come by in newly developed subdivisions where enormous earth moving equipment is used to level trees and land.  
This equipment not only removes the valuable topsoil, it also compacts subsoil and kills the living organisms that make up a healthy soil system. The less we disturb the soil the better, but for many the reality is bleak so some sort of amendment is necessary in order to improve tilth, drainage and nutrition.  

Unless you are cultivating cranberries or rice, all this rain is likely thwarting your spring gardening plans; it sure is for many farmers in our area, which is my primary concern.  
While perspective is important in these matters, many home owners may see a little stress in their landscapes as a result of over a week of soaking rain.
So how does excessive precipitation effect plants?  
Well, in every way possible. Excessive precipitation, especially in poorly drained soils, can restrict oxygen intake by roots.  

Attention 4-H Teens:
4-H Teen Conference
is June 13-16
The 2011 4-H Teen Conference activities for 4-H Teens from across the state are scheduled for Monday-Thursday, June 13-16 at the University of Kentucky. This is an extremely fine activity for teens involving workshops, tracks, a visit to the different colleges of the university, state 4-H office elections and meeting other teens from across the state. 2011 4-H Teen Conference registration is due to the Harrison County Extension Office by Friday, May 6.

The 2011 Perennial Plant of the Year is Amsonia hubrichtii, or Arkansas blue star. We have long enjoyed Amsonia tabernaemontana, Arkansas blue star’s less refined cousin, in the garden; but A. hubrichtii takes the prize for superior multi-season interest.