As I walk around the boundaries of my yard, a bed of tall lavender phlox reminds me of my maternal grandmother’s row of P. paniculata. Garden phlox shows up on schedule every July. Many perennials are true to summer, native and carefree. Right plants, right places. Others, like roses, demand more effort. My father grew roses. Lacking irrigation, between rains he moved the garden hose from bush to bush, watching water trickle into the ground at each rose base while he took patient notice of whether mulch, or insecticide, or pruning was needed.
What is tried and true to one generation can change for the next, yet some aphorisms remain the same. For instance, Master Gardeners often repeat the phrase, “right plant, right place,” but much knowledge hides behind that maxim. Variables associated with soil types, plant resistance to heat, drought and pests have to be considered. Even so, gardeners can rely on tried and true guidelines: Perennials and natives are wonderful plants. Watering is best done early by trickle irrigation. Mulching helps. A watchful eye is a gardener’s best habit of mind. Many tried and true methods of yesteryear work, but new methods or products based on research can also be used.
I recently read a “tip of the month” for controlling slugs: “The next generation of commercial slug baits contain iron phosphate as the active ingredient … safer for use around pets than metaldehyde-based products that have been used for years.” As gardeners, we typically rely on what we’ve always done, this well-honed knowledge, yet new products and methods are always being developed. Yesterday’s tried and true may become today’s new and improved. Most gardeners have anecdotal remedies from parents and grandparents, and much of their advice is good, but finding and using horticultural research can save money and help one avoid misuses.
What is considered to be today’s tried and true practices are based on years of dedicated research. Clemson has six Research and Education Centers strategically located throughout South Carolina according to unique soil types and climates. This interconnected network features high-tech labs with collaborative scientists and students. In our area, Edisto Research & Education Center is located in Barnwell County, where scientists have studied and developed agricultural production practices since 1937. Scientists at Clemson’s Research and Education Centers collaborate with growers and industry professionals throughout the state and beyond to conduct replicated trials and demonstrations to improve sustainability and agricultural profitability. Scientists conduct research projects to improve water quality, grow sustainable forests, advance food packaging and monitor waterfowl, just to name a few areas of concern.
I encourage everyone to look at resources offered in person and through online videos and free webinars. You may be interested in the Carolina Yards program, designed to help gardeners conserve water and improve the environmental quality of their yards and neighborhoods. You may be interested in using the Native Plant directory or in learning how to maintain soil health. You may be willing to create a rain garden or to certify your backyard as environmentally friendly.
Make no mistake: Well-designed and continuous research initiatives in agriculture and horticulture are essential. As engaged citizens, we can learn about and use reliable sources. We can support scientists and agricultural professionals. As taxpayers, we provide financial backing for extension service, so use their knowledge and resources. While I’m always appreciative of those who share anecdotal experiences, I also appreciate research-based information about horticultural practices acquired through universities, extension services and agricultural labs.
Since becoming a Master Gardener, I’ve come to appreciate the many agents with expertise in topics ranging from fruits and vegetables, landscape, turf, ornamental plants and other issues related to home gardening. The Clemson Home and Garden Information Center is a constantly updated source for research-based information on topics related to home gardening, which complements Clemson’s network of professionals and Master Gardener volunteers.
The Master Gardeners will hold a Lunchbox Lecture at noon on Friday, July 18, at Millbrook Baptist Church, 223 S. Aiken Blvd. The speaker will be Lori Watson with Mill Creek Greenhouses. Her topic will be Tried and True Plus Some New: Plants that Work.