Deb Brown
Columnist
Digging InDeb Brown is a garden writer and former extension horticulturist with the University of Minnesota. To ask her a question, call 612-673-9073 and leave a message. She will answer questions in her column.
Latest from Deb Brown
Master gardener offers a master list of favorites
I've been writing gardening articles for the Star Tribune for more than 30 years. I think it's time to bow out. Rather than passing on any final words of wisdom, I'm going to share the names of a few of my favorite plants.
July 15, 2014
![Lifelong garden writer Deb Brown.]JIM GEHRZ • jgehrz@startribune.com / Roseville, MN / July 9, 2014 / 10:30 AM](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/VSA3U7PUNR5GBCXPCM2GSTXVPA.jpg?&w=252&ar=3:2&fit=crop)
Get your garden ready for bed
It takes more than luck to give your garden a leg up. It takes action. Here are some things you can do this fall to prepare your yard and garden for winter — and next.
September 24, 2013
How to avoid downy mildew on impatiens
If impatiens will be making an appearance in your garden beds or containers this growing season, you should be on the alert for downy mildew disease.
June 4, 2013
Improve your garden by improving the soil
Having a good garden hinges on a lot of factors, but one thing that often gets overlooked but shouldn't is the soil.
May 7, 2013
Even if the snow melts, don't rake!
Raking won't make the snow melt. It won't thaw the ground. Or give the temperatures a boost. What will it do? "More harm than good," says one expert.
April 16, 2013
DIY holiday blooms
For holiday decorations or gifts, green thumbs love forcing bulbs.
December 11, 2012
Making your house a green house
Tips on keeping your houseplants healthy over the winter.
November 6, 2012
Give it up for the garden
From planting mulch to washing tools, there are plenty of things to do to get your yard and garden prepared for winter.
October 16, 2012
It's prime lawn care time
As garden chores wind down, you can turn your attention to improving your grass -- now and next spring.
September 12, 2012
A guide to watering in extreme heat
Don't wait until the soil is bone-dry and cracked. Find ways to continuously give your plants the water they need to stay healthy.
July 31, 2012
What's eating your plants?
Here are strategies for dealing with what's bugging your plants.
May 29, 2012
The grass is growing; make it greener
The waiting is over. It's time to feed, get after those weeds and seed thin area.
April 24, 2012
