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 think my soil is killing my flowers in one of my garden beds. How much soil should I remove in order to put fresh new soil? Should I buy potting soil and regular top soil and mix it 50/50?
Answer Hi Sandra, soil doesn't kill plants. They may die from toxins in the soil, fungal diseases, insects, improper water, incorrect sunlight, soil compaction, incorrect pH or drainage issues, but no plant wants to die. The truth is...we kill them by giving them something they did not need, or by not giving them something they want.
If we can rule out toxins (oil, herbicides, etc.# then I would never remove soil, just improve it by mixing organic matter with it. This loosens your soil, adds depth #which improves drainage) and helps your soil microbes.
Take a soil sample to one of your local garden centers. They can tell a lot about your soil from the texture and they can probably test it for you also. Then they can help you pick the right plants for the location and fix the soil if necessary. Jim
