[oldvirginian]

I remember when I was a kid, the older folks would sit in the living room talking on rainy or cold winter days.

The topics varied through the years.
I remember hearing about the advantages of work horses vs tractors, what type of tractor to buy, how long to season fence posts, the different varieties of seeds and how to plant and nourish each.
I wish I had written it all down!

One of the reasons I like Free Republic is it reminds me of those days.
Like minded people sitting around the wood stove sharing their opinions on all things.
I even manage to learn something every now and then!

Just this week I’ve learned that pine needles are much more than a nuisance. They can actually be my friend.

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

(in my best German accent)" TOO Late SCHMART !"
Yeah, most of us try to learn something new , or experiment, or try new varieties and cultivers .
My suggestion to you : contact your local Farm Extension , or Co-Operative Extension for recent plant developements, or suggestions to overcome problems.
Also , many have mid-winter classes or instructions, or they know of innovative growers in your area;
also ,they have specialists for home gardeners, road-side stands, orchardists,forestry, commercial agriculture, as well as helpful bulletins and handouts.
If, on a cold wintery day you might want to review some of the earlier gardening forum entries from here, go to :
www.freerepublic.com/tag/gardening/index?tab=articles

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

I failed to mention that the forum information goes back 13 years about crops, cultivers,plant disease, seed starting indoors, plant reccommneds, etc.,etc.
Also , that the Farm bureau and County Co-Operative Extension Office information is FREE for the asking !