There are a lot of garden practices that no longer are needed. Some examples:

» Gypsum: Once highly recommended, this additive is high in calcium, and Indiana’s clay soil usually has plenty. Gypsum makes the soil more alkaline or raises the pH. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline interferes with a plant’s ability to take up nutrients.

» Tree topping: Never top a tree. It cannot heal the gaping wounds, leaving it susceptible to insects and diseases. Use selective pruning instead.

» Mowing height: Set your mower at 31/2 to 4 inches. Cutting grass shorter opens the lawn up for sun- or wind-scald, weeds, insects and diseases.

» Fertilizers A: Plants can’t tell the difference between synthetic and natural fertilizers, but the soil can. Natural or organic fertilizers feed micro-organisms with soil-building nutrients.

» Fertilizers B: If you applied a lawn fertilizer in the fall, skip an application in spring. The grass will grow as it gets warmer, with or without the fertilizer.

» Wood ash: This has trace amounts of nutrients, but will increase the soil’s pH. A light dusting is fine, but heavy applications are not recommended.