ASK US! Services and Gardening Resources

ASK US!

Have a gardening question? Big Spring Master Gardener Association is here to help! Ask us about plants, insects, diseases, vegetables, lawns, trees, or other gardening challenges. We’ll help connect you with research-based information from UT Extension to help you find the answer.

For plant problems, please review our Plant Health Questions Checklist and Diagnostic Photography Guide before submitting your question. Providing detailed information and clear photos—including the overall plant, affected leaves, stems, trunk, and base when appropriate—can help us better understand the problem and provide useful, research-based information.

Taking Diagnostic Pictures

Diagnostic Checklist

Gardening in Greene County

Gardening in Greene County means working with four seasons, humid conditions, variable elevations, and a wide range of soils and landscapes. A garden in a valley may have very different conditions than one on a hillside or at a higher elevation.

What to Expect

East Tennessee receives abundant rainfall throughout the year, with heavy thunderstorms possible during the growing season. Good drainage and avoiding overwatering are important.

Greene County has a long growing season, but late spring and early fall frosts can still affect tender plants. Higher elevations and low-lying areas may experience different frost dates.

Greene County’s terrain ranges from valleys and rolling farmland to higher, steeper areas. Sun exposure, slope, elevation, and proximity to water can create significant microclimates.

Soils range from deep, productive valley and bottomland soils to shallow, rocky, acidic soils on hillsides. Some areas have heavy clay, while others drain quickly. A soil test is the best way to understand your specific site.

Heavy rainfall combined with clay soils or low-lying sites can lead to temporary saturation and poor drainage. Raised beds, appropriate plant selection, and improving soil structure can help.

Before planting, consider sunlight, slope, drainage, soil, wind exposure, and elevation. The right plant in the right location is one of the best ways to prevent problems.

Start With Your Site

Test your soil. Choose plants suited to your conditions. Plant at the right time. Watch your garden regularly.

For research-based gardening information specific to Tennessee, explore our resources or Ask Us! Greene County Extension and the Big Spring Master Gardener Association are here to help.