Carole Knight

  • The truth about lichens

    I get quite a few calls about lichens. Most clients bring in a sample or send me a picture of a frilly something growing on their tree or shrub and say, “This is killing my plant!”  Well, actually, its not.  Lichens (pronounced “liken”) are not parasitic. Lichens are made up of symbiotic organisms, a fungi…

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  • Raising backyard layer hens

    There has been a lot of interest recently in raising your own laying hens. Before you buy chicks, there are many preparations to make. Preparing for proper housing, nutrition and health will make sure that your chicks survive to produce eggs for your dining pleasure.

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  • Tips on Composting

    Composting is a simple way to add nutrient-rich humus which fuels plant growth and restores vitality to depleted soil.  It’s also free, easy to make and good for the environment. Using compost improves soil structure, texture, and aeration and increases the soil’s water-holding capacity.  Compost loosens clay soils and helps sandy soils retain water. Adding…

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  • Timing is key to a beautiful lawn

    The weather is warming and warm season perennial grasses are coming out of dormancy. Our lawns are greening up nicely and its time to start setting them up for a beautiful green summer. Knowing the right time to apply fertilizers, soil amendments, and pest control options is critical to the sustainability and health of your…

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  • Interpreting your soil test results

    After you have collected and sent off your soil sample for testing, you anxiously wait for your results. But when they arrive, do you know how to interpret those?

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  • Vegetable Garden Tips and Planting Chart

    hands hold tray of plants and placing them in a planter

    With temperatures warming up steadily, its time to start laying out and planting this years vegetable garden.  Here are a few tips to remember when planning and planting: Select a site that receives at least 8 to 10 hours of sunlight a day. Select a location that is conveniently located near the house and a…

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  • Follow us on Facebook

    Do you follow us on Facebook? We have an active Facebook page where we post updates and information. Be sure to live and follow our page so that you down miss out. https://www.facebook.com/UGAExtensionMadisonCounty/

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  • Nineteen youth participated in the annual Cloverleaf District Project Achievement, Saturday at the Rock Eagle 4-H center, with many winning a first, second or third-place and honorable mentions.  The Madison County delegation — part of the 456 competitors at the competition — won 5 blue ribbon medallions, four red ribbon medallions, three white ribbon medallions and…

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