Mark the handle of your spade or as a ruler for a handy measuring device to space out rows or plants. Paint the measurements on the handle and cover with a coat of varnish for weather protection. Bright colors will make the tools easier to find.

Cilantro looks a little like parsley and matures for fresh use in about 18 days. It has a pungent taste and is distinctive in Spanish and Mexican dishes. The seeds of cilantro are called coriander, and are not interchangeable with cilantro leaves. Coriander seeds have a subtle orange flavor and are used in breads and pastries.

Silver maples, willows, poplars (including cottonwoods) and elms can clog and break water lines with their roots. Plant these species away from sewer and septic lines.

The brown-headed ash sawfly is fairly new to Colorado. It showed up in the Arkansas Valley about 20 years ago and has spread north along the Front Range. The young larvae feed on leaves and can defoliate a tree. Larva can be dislodged by a strong jet of water, die from a late spring frost or be blown from the trees by strong winds. If treatment is needed, they can be killed by soapy water or most garden insecticides like carbaryl/Sevin, permethrin or malathion. Bt and Neem oil do not seem to be effective.

Hops, grown from a perennial “crown,” can be used to flavor beer. Hop flowers are also edible and the tender, spring shoots can be served like asparagus. The vines grow quickly and can reach 25’ in one season. Grow the vines on a trellis to block out unwanted views.

The authors have received training through Colorado State University Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener program and is a Master Gardener volunteer for Larimer County.

Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.

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This page updated:  May 16, 2007