Welcome to the Earl May Blog, your ultimate resource for all things gardening. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting your gardening journey, our blog offers expert advice, creative ideas, and practical tips to help you cultivate a beautiful and thriving garden. Explore a wide range of topics, from planting and lawn care to outdoor living and seasonal gardening tips. Join our community of garden enthusiasts and discover how to make the most of your outdoor space with guidance from Earl May's trusted experts. Dive in and let your gardening adventures begin.


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Veggie Gardening: Big Flavor, Small Space

Short on space but big on gardening goals? Whether you’re working with a patio, balcony, or small backyard, you can still grow a bountiful garden with the right seeds and setup. Earl May Garden Center has everything you need for small-space gardening success—from garden seeds to container-friendly supplies and expert advice. Discover how easy and rewarding it can be to grow fresh, flavorful plants in even the coziest of spaces!

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Benefits of Growing in a Raised Garden Bed

If you've ever wanted to grow your own fresh vegetables, herbs, or even small fruits but don't have the space for a traditional garden, we have great solutions for you! From budget-friendly options like grow bags and containers to elevated raised garden beds and planter boxes, there's a solution to fit your needs.

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Itoh Peony: A Stunning Hybrid Like No Other

Looking to add a show-stopping perennial to your garden? The Itoh Peony is a must-have for any Midwest gardener seeking incredible blooms, hardy performance, and season-long beauty.

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Lilacs: A Midwest Favorite

Lilacs are a beloved classic in Midwest landscapes, offering stunning spring blooms and a nostalgic fragrance that evokes memories of childhood gardens and visits to grandma’s house.

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Clematis: The Hardy Blooming Perennial Vine

A Great Addition for a Stunning Garden

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Pruning Guide: Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials

Pruning is one of the most essential tasks in garden maintenance. It helps promote healthy growth, improves the appearance of plants, and can even boost flowering or fruit production.

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The Ultimate Guide to Growing Sweet Corn

Nothing says summer quite like the taste of fresh sweet corn. Whether you enjoy it straight off the cob, grilled, or in a delicious side dish, growing your own ensures the freshest flavor possible. At Earl May Garden Center, we provide high-quality sweet corn seeds and expert guidance to help you achieve a successful harvest.

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Onion Sets vs. Onion Plants: What's the Difference?

When it comes to growing onions, gardeners have two primary choices - onion sets or onion plants. Let's explore the differences between these two and determine which is best for your needs.

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Potatoes: A Guide to Growing Bountiful Harvests

Potatoes are a staple in home gardens, offering a rewarding and versatile crop that thrives with proper care. Whether you prefer white or red varieties, following the right planting and maintenance techniques will ensure a successful harvest.

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Fruit Tree Pollination Guide

Growing your own fruit trees is incredibly rewarding, but proper pollination is key to getting the best harvest. Whether you're planting apples, cherries, pears, or plums, understanding how fruit trees pollinate will help you make the right choices for your garden.

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Fruit Tree Spray Guide

Keeping your fruit trees healthy and productive requires a consistent spray routine to manage pests and diseases. The right fruit tree spray at the right time can make all the difference. Our comprehensive guide will help you understand when and how to spray your fruit trees for optimal results.

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Best Houseplants for Every Lighting Situation

Before you bring home your new houseplant, it’s important to know what type of lighting you have in order for the plant, and you, to be successful.

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Keep Wild Birds Around this Winter

Providing a clean feeder, fresh food, open water and a comfortable habitat are keys to keeping wild birds around this winter. Check out the following tips and ideas.

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4 Quick Tips for Poinsettia Care

Nothing says “the Holidays are here” like seeing the poinsettias arrive at your local Earl May! There are some quick and easy things you can do to keep your poinsettia looking its best throughout the holiday seasons. Enjoy the festive feel of these beautiful plants as you spend time with family and friends.

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Winterizing Your Outdoor Furniture

You've created your ideal outdoor living space. It's now time to protect your investment, especially as winter approaches. Earl May can assist you in finding the correct size of furniture covers you need and special order for dining, seating, fire pits or umbrellas. Talk to your local Earl May Garden Center team about special orders.

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Moonsigns 2025

Roughly speaking, those things which bear their crops above the ground should be planted in a favorable sign when the moon is increasing, known as the Light of the Moon.

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When is the Best Time to Control Weeds in Your Lawn?

Surprisingly, Fall is the best time to tackle lawn weeds. Late-season herbicide applications target weeds at their most vulnerable stage, making it easier to eliminate them compared to other times of the year.

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Prepare Your Lawn & Garden for a Flourishing Spring

As the crisp autumn air settles in, it might seem counterintuitive to think about spring. However, fall is the ideal time to lay the groundwork for a vibrant, healthy lawn and garden next season. By taking the right steps now, you'll set your outdoor spaces up for success when the warmer weather returns.

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The Earl May Tree Story: From Our Roots to Your Home

At Earl May Garden Center, we don't just sell trees - we grow the trees that will thrive in your landscape! Our trees have deep roots in the Midwest, beginning their journey at our farm in Shenandoah, Iowa. Here, our tree experts carefully pot, train, space, and hand prune each tree as it matures, ensuring it receives the care it needs to flourish in our customers' yards. We take pride in our process, so you can take pride in your purchase.

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Plant Fall Bulbs for Stunning Spring Blooms

As temperatures begin to drop and the crispness of fall sets in, it's the perfect time to think ahead to spring - by planting fall bulbs! These little powerhouses will be your garden's first burst of color, emerging from the ground when most other plants are still in their winter slumber. The best part is they'll keep coming back the following years!

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