TIP OF THE WEEK
Easy way to cut holes

Laying down black plastic on the soil in vegetable beds in early spring will help warm the soil before planting.

Leave it there when planting as it is a good way to cut down on weeds, but it's always difficult to make holes in the plastic for the plants.

Take a 3-inch diameter soup can, rinse it well and remove the label.

Sharpen the open end with a bench grinder and smooth the edge with a round or half-round file.

To cut the holes in the plastic first mark the cuts with a grease pencil or crayon.

Then, use the can like a cookie cutter, twisting it and pressing down slightly with your palm.

Voila! You have a perfect hole every time.

Ronald Duncan, Smith County Master

Gardener