Question of the Month

Large wasp-like insects (cicada killers)

bug

Q. We’re seeing very large black and yellow flying insects that look like wasps flying around our yard. They seem to be entering areas with piles of dirt along our walkway. What are they and how do we get rid of them?

Snow removal from shrubs

Q. Should I remove snow from my shrubs?

Spring rose care

Q. What sort of spring care should I provide for my roses?

Attracting birds to the winter garden

Q. I would like to attract birds to my garden this winter – any suggestions?

Poinsettia caution

Q. Are poinsettia plants poisonous?

A.The term "poisonous plants" is often associated with plants that may cause great harm or be fatal if ingested. Potential poisoning depends on the level of toxins contained in the plant and the amount consumed.

Caring for cut flowers

Question of the Month

Q. How can I extend the life of cut flowers that I receive for Valentine’s Day?

Insect leaf damage

Q. I’ve noticed many leaves of my plants look chewed. What is causing this and is there anything I can spray to help my plants?

A. At this time of year, many different types of insects and their larvae frequently feed on the leaves of plants. Without seeing the culprit, it is not possible to determine which insect is causing the damage to your plants. Inspect your plants thoroughly in order to positively identify the insect causing the damage.

Types of strawberries

Q. What is the difference between June-bearing and ever-bearing strawberries?

A. Types of strawberries are named according to their harvest time. June-bearing strawberries are the most familiar type and produce the largest fruits as well as large yields. Ever-bearing plants produce two smaller crops, one in June and another in early fall. June-bearing varieties also produce larger numbers of runners than ever-bearing varieties.

Fairy rings in grass

Q. We’ve noticed several wide, very green circles in the grass in our front lawn. Mushrooms are growing out of part of the circles. What are the rings and how do we get rid of the mushrooms?

Caring for houseplants in late winter

Q. Is there anything that I should be doing in March to my houseplants?

Lack of flowers on lilacs

Q. Why doesn’t my lilac bloom in the spring?

A. There are several possible reasons why your lilac fails to bloom. The most common cause is lack of adequate sunlight. Lilacs (Syringa) need to be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of strong, direct sun per day. They are very tolerant of different moisture conditions as long as they are planted in well-drained soil.

Watering tips

Question of the Month

Q. How much water do plants need to keep them healthy?

A. The amount of water plants need depends on several different factors, like type of plant, how long it’s been planted, type of soil, and location.

Live holiday trees

Q. We are thinking about getting a live, not cut, holiday tree this year.
What do you recommend?

Using fallen leaves in the garden

Q. How can I use fallen tree leaves in my garden?

A. Shredded leaves can be used to insulate various plants in the garden during the cold winter months. When leaves are used whole they can prevent water from penetrating the root zones of plants; therefore, it is important to shred them first. If only a small amount is needed, whole leaves can easily be shredded in a garbage can using a weed whacker. It is always a good idea to wear safety goggles when using a weed whacker. If a larger amount is needed, a lawn mower can be used.

Preparing trees and shrubs for winter

Q. Is there anything that I can do to prepare my trees and shrubs for winter?

Harvesting Pumpkins

Q. How do I know when my pumpkins are ready to harvest?

Plants for fall containers

Q. Do you have any suggestions for plants that can be used in a fall container?

Revitalizing perennial salvia

Q. My perennial salvia plants have already bloomed and are now leggy, open, and straggly. Why are they doing this and can I do anything about it?

Sprinklers and irrigation systems

Question of the Month

Q: What types of sprinklers should I be using in my garden?

A: There are many types of irrigation devices with distribution patterns to fit different watering needs.

Hand-held devices or watering cans are the easiest to use for containers or specimen plants that may require higher amounts of irrigation. Screw nozzles and pressure grips with triggers are available to distribute water in a variety of ways that range from full stream to fine mist sprays.

Trees and Shrubs Recovering from Drought

Q: My trees and shrubs struggled this year because of the drought. Will my plants recover?

A: Many plants are showing signs of distress this year due to the drought and extreme temperatures. Scorch, browning of leaves, leaf drop, and premature fall color are commonly seen due to this year’s weather conditions. Many plants seem to be perking up with the recent rains; however, significant damage may have already occurred.

Storing Iris Plants for Winter

Q: I'd like to divide and store my Iris plants for the winter. What is the best way to do this?

How to prevent snow damage to shrubs

Question of the Month

Q: Every winter the snow damages some of my shrubs. Is there anything I can do to prevent this?

Tips for Giving Plants as Holiday Gifts

Question of the Month

Q: We would like to give plants as gifts during the holidays but aren’t sure how to transport them. Do you have some tips for purchasing and transporting holiday plants?

Storing Summer Bulbs

Q: I am storing summer bulbs for the first time — is there anything I need to do for them during the winter?

Heirloom Plants

Question of the Month

Q: I’ve read a lot recently about heirloom vegetables and would like to try growing some this year. Can you explain a little about heirlooms?

How to remember where bulbs are planted

Q: In the fall, I always have trouble remembering where I need to plant bulbs in my garden, and often find myself planting too close to existing ones. Any suggestions?