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- James L. Crowder
Soil Issues/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I can answer questions about insects and diseases, weed control, etc. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants.
Experience in the area
I have 40 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations
Garden Writers Association
Publications
Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials
40 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors
Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society. Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society. Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:
No plant wants to die before its time. A dead plant either got something it didn't want, or wanted something it didn't get.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helen | 02/03/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you! Relieved my worries about our ..... |
| elizabeth | 11/12/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you so much |
| Edward | 11/08/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thanks Jim. That sounds logical. The ..... |
| Ed | 11/02/11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | Thanks for your feedback and advice; it ..... |
| Prince Avalanche Mew Cat | 11/01/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Recent Answers from James L. Crowder
2012-02-02 poor drainage around young oak tree:
Hi Helen, The two best ways are to either build a soil rise a few feet away from the trunk to divert water away or install a drain with underground pipe to take water to a lower part of the yard. However
2012-01-26 dying spike plant:
Hi Susan, Place the plant in front of a window, preferably a southern window to give it as much light as possible. Cut the cane back to where it is green and firm. It will re-sprout. I would expect it
2011-11-24 Draining pooled water:
Hi Richard, Think about this...if the area was absolutely full of water, where would any additional water flow? If you dig a catch basin like you describe, how quickly it fills depends on the amount
2011-11-11 soil microbes:
Hi Elizabeth, I'd be comfortable with a 10' by 10' area. You'll need to check your pH and lime when the pH falls below 6 and you'll need to feed the microbes. I'd use horticultural grade molasses and
2011-11-08 Planting Flower Bulbs:
Hi Edward, My preference would be to fill the holes at planting. One reason is your soil will be drier and will settle around the bulb better. The other reason is to keep rodents from getting the bulbs
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