Ask Paul

Plum is thrilled to introduce a new feature to our gardening segment with Paul Mahoney - Ask Paul.

All spring and summer long plant-lovers are welcome and encouraged to submit their gardening questions to askpaul@plumtv.com, and then Paul will answer the questions during his weekly Plum appearances.

Hopefully the new addition to the show will help your flowers bloom even more vibrantly this year!

Questions awaiting answers:

Hi Paul,
I live year-round in a Victorian (gingerbread) house in Oak Bluffs. I currently have some flowering bushes and grass at the entranceway of the house and it looks great in the spring and summer, but I'd really like to switch to something that will thrive year-round. Any suggestions for ground cover and bushes that work well in our climate and don't require much maintenance?
Connie
Oak Bluffs

Hi Paul!
My garden is in a woodsy area. What plants can I grow that deer won't eat, and what else can I do to keep them away?
- Amanda, Oak Bluffs

Hi Paul,
I thinned out my bearded irises, and replanted some of them in a new location. These new plants won't flower. Why is this, and is there anything I can do to get them blooing?

Thanks!
Lynn, Makoniky

Paul,

I planted a few Hydrangea in my garden a couple of years
ago, and they have done wonderfully, actually maybe too well- they've
out grown the area they're in - my question is "when is the best time
to prune to control their growth" for this summer?
- John, Vineyard Haven

Hello Paul:

I've got an unusual amount of moss in my lawn
this year, even on the south side of the house. I've been scratching up
the heaviest areas. I'm planning to let weed-and-feed fertilizer take
care of what's left -- unless you have a better idea. I haven't put
down any lime in years. Will that help? And is there anything I can do
in the fall to help prevent the moss from coming back next year?

Thanks!
Shelley