As the Garden Grows

  The pH value is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance or solution is. pH is measured on a scale of 0 to 14. On this scale, a pH value of 7 is neutral, which means it is neither acidic nor alkaline. A pH value of less than 7 means it is more acidic, and a pH value of more than 7 means it is more alkaline.     Soil acidity is a consideration that is extremely important in the garden. All plants have their soil pH range preferences. Some plants are acid lovers (low pH), others require a neutral pH, and some like it alkaline situation (high pH). Within that range, they use nutrients to their maximum benefit. Outside that range, it is extremely difficult for them to get what they need, even if it’s already in the soil. You can change the pH level of your soil to best suit your needs by adding different materials. The most commonly used products that affect soil pH are lime (to raise pH), sulfur and aluminum sulfate (to lower pH). There are several inexpensive soil ...

In Alberta, invasive weeds are governed under the Alberta Weed Control Act. Invasive weeds are either classified as:   ·          Prohibited Noxious Weed - which means they must be eradicated, or ·          Noxious Weed - which means they must be controlled   There are nearly fifty (50) species of invasive plants that are regulated by the Act. We will explore one of them here.     Canada Thistle Cirsium arvense Provincial Designation: Noxious (must be controlled)   Canada Thistle is a member of the Asteraceae (Sunflower) family and was introduced from northern Europe. It is now found across most of Alberta, commonly in overgrazed pastures, roadside ditches and riparian areas.   Concern: Competes with, and displaces native vegetation and reduces agricultural production.   Similar Species: Plumeless Thistle, marsh thistle and other na...