Smart Talk: Spring gardening and planting

What to look for on Smart Talk Tuesday, May 3, 2016:

Over the years, you have told us that some of your favorite Smart Talk shows are the ones that focus on spring time gardening and planting.  And why not?  The program reminds everyone that the long winter is behind us, spring and warmer weather are here and you can get a few great tips too.

Every year is unique.  March and most of April were warmer than usual so the early blooming flowers and trees got a head start — even when there was one final snow.  But recently, there’s been a lot of rain and not much sunshine so will it have any impact in the long run?

Tuesday’s Smart Talk features Erica Jo Shaffer, the nursery manager at Highland Gardens in Camp Hill who will share her knowledge and expertise on a variety of questions.

Yes, Erica talks about the virtues of dandelions in the yard but she also has many tips to pass along when it comes to flowers, gardens, vegetables, trees and grass.

So what questions do you have?  Call 1-800-729-7532 between 9 and 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Also, send photographs or what you’ve grown to WITF’s Facebook page so everyone can enjoy them!

Dandelion Blossom Bread

2 cups flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 Teaspoon salt

1 cup dandelion blossoms, all green sepals and leaves removed

1/4 cup oil

4 Tablespoons honey

1 egg

1 1/2 cups milk

 

Combine dry ingredients in large bowl, including petals making sure to separate clumps of petals. In separate bowl mix together milk, honey, oil beaten egg. Add liquid to dry mix. Batter should be fairly wet and lumpy. Pour into buttered bread tin or muffin tin. Bake 400F. For muffins 20-25 min, bread for bread up to twice as long. Test for doneness