AboutJames L. Crowder Expertise I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants
Experience I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations Garden Writers Association
Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair
Publications Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials 37 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Question I have several large pots (whiskey barrels, etc.). Is it o.k. to keep the soil in from year to year? What I have done is put about half in a wheelbarrow and add new soil and peat to refresh it. I also use rapid grow. Does this cause any problems?
Answer Hi Myrna, I replace the soil in my containers every other year. At the beginning of the second year, I add in finely ground pine bark to help loosen the soil. The third year it is tilled into the garden. Use a good quality fertilizer in containers like Osmocote or an organic, such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizer is ok for the garden, but not for containers. You can damage your plants from the soluble salts. Jim
