DO YOU HAVE GARDEN QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS!

Q Rinsing with water doesn't get rid of the little black beetles in my raspberries. What can I do?

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Bill Dawe, PA

A When you bring the harvest indoors, add 1 part table salt to 9 parts cold water and soak the fruit for 10 to 20 minutes. The insects will float to the surface. Don't let the fruit soak too long or it might become mushy and take on a salty taste. And always rinse the fruit again in cold, clean water before eating or processing.

Q What's the best drainage material for my ceramic garden containers?

Polly March, MO

A Old habits die hard, but for years studies have shown that all that's needed for good drainage in a pot is at least one hole in the bottom. Gravel or pot shards in the bottom don't improve drainage. In fact, they actually can increase the likelihood of roots rotting. And using something like a coffee filter to keep critters out of the base is useless: No matter what you put in the bottom, insects and animals can still get around it or in the top.

Do make sure the drainage hole is unobstructed. If the container has a smooth, flat bottom, it could "seal" to the ground. You might need to raise it slightly on small blocks or pot feet so the water can drain away.

Q I have at least 10 boxes of water-soluble fertilizers on the shelf. Can just one or two replace them for feeding my containers?

June Freeman, CA