Spring Gardening Problems & Solutions | Backyard Farmer May 8, 2025

In this episode of Backyard Farmer, UNL Plant Diagnostician Kyle Broderick explains Ash Yellows, a serious disease affecting lilacs and other plants. Terri James shares a Backyard Farmer Garden update on hardening off plants before they get planted in the ground. Bob Hendrickson from the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum introduces sedge alternatives, perfect for replacing struggling turf grass in shady areas. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful! Host: Kim Todd Panel: Jody Green, Matt Sousek, Amy Timmerman, Dana Freeman 🌿 What you’ll learn in this episode: How to protect yourself and your pets during peak tick season. Identifying and controlling crabgrass before it takes over your lawn. Why some oak leaves curl from herbicide drift and how to prevent damage. Best soil temperatures for planting tomatoes and using soil thermometers. Managing asparagus beetles and cleaning beds for a healthier harvest. Spotting weeds like Russian thistle (tumbleweed) and effective ways to control them. Tips for tree planting, mulch rings, and fertilizer stakes. Recognizing orange rust on black raspberries and fire blight on apples. How to deal with nuisance insects like springtails, conifer aphids, and clover mites. Tree diversity: why planting different species protects your landscape from pests and diseases. 👉 Subscribe to Backyard Farmer for weekly gardening Q&A, expert advice, and how-to videos! 👉 Explore more on our YouTube channel and join the conversation on Facebook. #BackyardFarmer #GardeningTips #Crabgrass #Ticks #TomatoPlanting #TreeCare #WeedControl #AsparagusBeetle #SpringGarden