Author Archives: Carol Reese

How can I get rid of crabgrass in my lawn? It was awful all last summer. Is there something I can do in spring to fend it off?

Several years ago, I was struck by the beauty of some redtwig dogwoods and made a point of buying the same variety. They are healthy but much taller than the ones I saw, and they’ve never looked as colorful. Do they need special care?—MB, Minneapolis, Minn.

I grew a small vegetable garden last year with reasonable success. This year I want to start my plants indoors, to get a jump-start on the season. Do I really need grow lights or is the light from a western window sufficient?—MS, Smithfield, R.I.

I was told that some of the overgrown shrubs at my house should be “limbed up.” What does that mean?—GG, Texas

I have just purchased a hot pink Christmas cactus. What should I do throughout next year to ensure that it blooms again in time for next Christmas?—AW, Pearisburg, Va.

I’ve heard there are a lot of poisonous houseplants. I have many indoor plants and I keep my son’s cats here when he travels. Should I be worried?—WB, Las Vegas, Nev.