gardening

Thinking about growing a few fruit trees in Montana? Before you start digging holes for apple trees in your backyard, read this first.

The seed bank at the library is an awesome - FREE - resource for local gardeners. We stopped by to to check out the extensive collection of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds.

With our short growing season, and typically poor soil, Montana gardeners are always looking for ways to increase yields and have healthier plants. A Billings-based company's all-natural microbial soil booster recently showed up on my radar.

The MSU Yellowstone County Extension Office is hosting a FREE three-part lecture series on canning at the Billings Public Library. Canning newbies and seasoned pros are invited to learn the science and food safety techniques necessary for successful canning.

It smells like either death, rotting fish, sweaty socks or a combination of all three.

Those squirrels don't stand a chance.

No, they are not trying to give their yards a much needed bath.

Wild tobacco can be found across Montana; it will grow essentially anywhere you can grow tomatoes. Herbalists and homeopaths are rediscovering the medicinal properties of this nicotine-laden plant.

I'm shocked and embarrassed that I've never been to this really gorgeous piece of Montana. It's so close, incredibly beautiful, inexpensive to visit, and right up my alley. Perhaps 'tourist attraction' isn't the right term for this Jefferson City gem.

Sure, you can freeze them, can them, or make salsa or sauces. But today we learned of another way to preserve your precious homegrown tomato crop that is super easy. Plus, the finished product takes up far less room in your pantry or freezer!

Your favorite fruit trees are going to die soon in Montana if you see any damage similar to these pictures. A long winter with deep snowbanks made for the perfect "storm" of destruction by a hated rodent - the vole.

This weekend will really feel like spring in the Billings area, as sunshine and 70s is the theme for the next few days. Low 80s are possible next week and everybody is anxious to start planting flowers and getting their gardens rolling for the season...