Seed to soil—the first crack of green
The things we got wrong This page is a log of the mistakes we made before we knew better.
Founder & Editor
I’ve always been the one digging in the dirt—whether it was planting sunflowers in my grandma’s backyard or coaxing life out of stubborn seeds in a too-small windowsill. There’s nothing quite like the quiet satisfaction of watching something you’ve nurtured grow, and I want to help others experience that joy.
On *Weed And Feed*, I share the practical wisdom I’ve picked up over the years, from soil science to seasonal planting tips, all with a little humor and a lot of real-world honesty.
More from Marisol Salazar
💥 Quick Answer Birds do eat pokeweed berries, though they may experience mild to severe toxicity depending on species and consumption levels. These berries contain phytochemicals that can cause digestive upset…
💥 Quick Answer To use Preen Garden Weed Preventer, apply it to dry, weed-free soil before planting by following label rates for granular or liquid forms, then water lightly to activate the barrier. Reapply every 3-4…
💥 Quick Answer Joe Pye weed is not toxic to humans or pets, though its milky sap may irritate sensitive skin. While generally safe, excessive consumption of its roots was historically used medicinally but can cause mild…
💥 Quick Answer Mint isn't a weed but a cultivated perennial herb valued for its flavor, fragrance, and health benefits—its rapid growth and spreading roots, however, often lead gardeners to treat it like one. Mint…
💥 Quick Answer Pokeweed rash isn't contagious because it results from skin contact with the plant's irritating sap, not a virus or bacteria. However, touching affected skin can spread the sap to new areas, intensifying…
💥 Quick Answer Is weed killer flammable? Most herbicides are non-flammable in their standard forms, but concentrated formulations—especially those with volatile solvents—can create fire hazards when improperly stored…
💥 Quick Answer Milkweed plants and butterflies share a vital relationship, especially with monarchs, as milkweed serves as their exclusive host plant for egg-laying and caterpillar feeding. Without it, monarch…
💥 Quick Answer Redroot pigweed is edible when properly identified and prepared, with young leaves and stems safe to eat raw or cooked, but seeds and roots are toxic. Always confirm species and avoid contaminated plants…
💥 Quick Answer Whether you should cut back butterfly weed in the fall depends on your garden goals—pruning dead stems after frost keeps your landscape neat, while leaving seed heads supports pollinators and adds winter…
💥 Quick Answer Using vinegar as a weed killer in the garden effectively targets unwanted plants by disrupting their cell structure through acetic acid, but it works best on young weeds under direct sunlight and should…
