tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48081400253999958352024-03-27T02:01:53.267-07:00Absolutely Bushedvisit us at www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.comAbsolutely Bushedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01635011220433283678noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-58078970874096138752015-04-14T12:32:00.003-07:002015-04-14T12:32:54.227-07:00All About Focal Points In Gardening
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Creating Focal Points in a <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Small</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Garden</st1:placetype></st1:place><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Designing When Every Space Counts</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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Focal points are used in garden design to draw and direct the eye. Think of
a garden, large or small, that was just a swath of plants. Your eye sweeps
along, not knowing where to land. A sense of flow is nice, but without a focus,
your garden is not really taken in and studied. It is quickly passed over. Now
think of a garden you saw with a wonderful water feature, a weeping tree or a
dramatic ornament. The first thing you notice is this focal feature. Once your
interested is concentrated there, you start to branch out and notice other
plants and features in the garden. The garden is slowly discovered rather than
swept through. You don’t have to have a focal point, but your garden will
appear more intentional if you do. <br />
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Small gardens can pose difficulties for creating a focal
point. Obviously you don’t want to sacrifice your entire garden space to one
large plant or tree. But focal points can be scaled to the size of your garden.
Even the smallest space could have one unique, flamboyant plant that calls
attention to itself. Think of tall, orange leaved cannas or small weeping
Japanese maples. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i636iILblY4/VI4Nx_BbjJI/AAAAAAAAAU8/LIsNtQWvDe0/s1600/IMG_1311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i636iILblY4/VI4Nx_BbjJI/AAAAAAAAAU8/LIsNtQWvDe0/s1600/IMG_1311.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3 style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><br />
So what Constitutes a Focal Point?<o:p></o:p></span></h3>
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Pretty much any striking feature in your garden: </div>
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<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><o:p> </o:p>An unusual specimen (Dwarf
Magnolia, Anchor Topiary, or Dogwood) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">A large, architectural plant
(Cimicifuga) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">A group of plants (a cluster
of astilbe, bleeding heart and ferns) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">A vibrant color (orange
canna) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">A single white plant </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">An ornament (Bird bath,
gazing globe, statue...) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">Large boulders </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">A dwarf shrub or tree </li>
</ul>
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You don’t have to start your garden design with a focal point, but you don’t
want to throw one in as an after thought. Think about the style of garden you
want and the plants you are considering using. Then list possible features that
would complement yet stand out from your basic design. Some designs lend
themselves to the obvious focal point: a Zen-like garden with a small water
feature, a cottage garden with a cement statue, a formal garden with an
obelisk. <br />
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If you have a preexisting large tree near your garden, that will become a
focal point whether you mean to or not. You might want to enhance it with a
bird house or a flowering vine, like climbing hydrangea. <br />
<br />
Larger gardens often have more than one focal point, stopping the viewer has
she surveys the whole scene. Small gardens generally only need one focal point,
but it can make or break the garden. Don’t let that intimidate you. If you find
you don’t like your first choice - welcome to the world of garden design. You
can always try something else. One of the best ways to find out what you do
like is to discover what you don’t. <br />
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Positioning
Your Focal Point<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Resist the temptation to center your focal point and plant around it. Use
the 1/3 -2/3 rule and place the focal feature just off center. If you have a
small, circular garden, place it towards the rear of your viewing perspective. <br />
<br />
The closer you will be when viewing your garden, the smaller your focal
point can be. In a garden next to a seating area, you don’t need drama to catch
the viewer’s attention. A view from the dining room window some 60 feet away
will be lost unless it dramatically stands out. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuvVmqZWCJtA1VSHUxReM_Y07ONrkFRBgxrKzU-HTcQZ4y9Z9pAz5mWZnYx-e6YwzndSWqpjJsewPvaxYqrx-_HJYHjhRzs1S1is4JVtGs75beT56S0CLtu1T8bjPTphYIwzvgTnj5wlr/s1600/artyoutube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieuvVmqZWCJtA1VSHUxReM_Y07ONrkFRBgxrKzU-HTcQZ4y9Z9pAz5mWZnYx-e6YwzndSWqpjJsewPvaxYqrx-_HJYHjhRzs1S1is4JVtGs75beT56S0CLtu1T8bjPTphYIwzvgTnj5wlr/s1600/artyoutube.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>I’ve never found a magic formula for how large to make a focal point. A lot
depends on where you are viewing from, plant choices and color. It often helps
to use a stand in for the focal point, a chair, ladder or your child. <br />
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;">Some Focal
Point Tips<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">Choose a proven performer. A
sickly looking plant or one that perpetually gets eaten or mildew is not a
good choice. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make sure it has a long peak
period. Don’t fall for a short bloomer or a plant that only has one season
of interest. no matter how spectacular it my be. Plants in small gardens
need to pull their weight. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">It is possible to have
seasonal focal points, in succession, but this requires planning and
diligent maintenance. The idea behind a focal point is to attract the eye.
If you spring focal point, say Bleeding heart, is going dormant or yellow
before your next focal point, perhaps tall lilies, have come into their
glory, the yellow foliage of the Bleeding Heart will be your current focal
point. </li>
</ul>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Question:</b> Jimmie, “When a description
says the plant is deciduous, does that always mean it loses its leaves? Does it
lose both its flowers and leaves or just flowers? I plan to landscape the front
of our house, which faces east, and down the side of the house, which faces
north. My husband and I want color and the foundation planting that will keep
its leaves, which I always considered evergreen, but now I’m not so sure I
understand what to call different plants. How do I know what part of the plant
is “deciduous”? Or is this a stupid question? I hope not. I just need help.”
Thank You for your time, Pamela P. in Prosper.</div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Answer:</b> Hi Pamela, It can be confusing
sometimes. A deciduous plant (tree or shrub) will go dormant (its rest period)
beginning when either the weather starts becoming colder (40’s to 50’s) or when
an area experiences a hard frost (temperatures dropping below 32 degrees,
usually overnight). It will begin to lose its leaves at this time. Blooming
plants have specific periods when they bloom. They aren’t always in bloom. Many
will bloom either in spring or summer. <br />
<br />
“Evergreen” is used to describe plants (trees/shrubs) that do not go dormant
and retain their leaves or needles. This generally refers to pines, boxwoods,
junipers, yews and holly. Broadleaf evergreens are plants that retain leaves
(very thick leaves) year round. But, they do shed the leaves periodically. This
will apply to plants such as azaleas, spireas and privets. <br />
<br />
Perennials are (usually) smaller plants which die completely back to the
ground after cool weather or frost sets in, and then returns the following
season. Annuals are plants that you have to set out every year as they will die
completely. These include begonias, pansies, geraniums, and other decorative
often flowering plants. Until next time…Happy Gardening!!<br />
<br />
Jimmie<br />
<br />
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Send your
landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at
<a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a> or in care of the Prosper Press at </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>rwilliams@prosperpressnews.com <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jimmie
is the owner of <a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Absolutely Bushed Landscaping</a> Company. He is a resident in
Prosper. His landscaping and gardening column runs every other week in the
Prosper Press.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<o:p> </o:p><br />
Jimmie Gibsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10637416944174904722noreply@blogger.com0Prosper, TX, USA33.2362278 -96.8011133.129983800000005 -96.962471499999992 33.3424718 -96.6397485tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-60808991071464639482014-09-05T09:11:00.000-07:002014-09-05T09:11:04.637-07:00Tired of that area that won't grow anything? Ground Cover is the Answer
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Ground covers are low-growing plants; usually less than 12 inches tall, that
spread to form dense mats which bind and hold the soil in place. Many also have
a season of effective bloom. Turf grass is the most common ground cover.
However, sites that are less suitable for turf grass, such as slopes, steep
banks, and shaded areas, can often grow other ground covers successfully.. <br />
<br />
A well-established ground cover generally requires much less maintenance
than the typical turf grass lawn. Ground covers are not totally
maintenance-free, nor will they always tolerate conditions that will not
support a turf. <br />
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" style="margin-top: 50px;" width="360" /></div>
<br />
There are many ways of trying to control weeds. We can remove them by hoeing
them out or by burning them with a flame gun! We can try to prevent them
growing by putting down mulches. Each of these methods has their advantages and
disadvantages and each has situations where they are applicable. In this column
we will look at another method of controlling weeds - by growing carefully
selected plants that can spread to cover the ground and that will out-compete
the weeds <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Its primary advantages include: <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
1. By covering the ground with a carpet of vegetation it prevents the germination
of weed seeds. <br />
<br />
2. When established, it prevents the ingress of perennial weeds. <br />
<br />
3. It protects the soil from erosion and water loss. This can be
particularly useful on steep slopes. <br />
<br />
4. It acts as an insulating cover for the soil, keeping it cooler in the
summer and warmer in the winter. <br />
<br />
5. It is living mulch that helps to build up humus levels in the soil. <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Selecting a Ground Cover <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
When deciding which ground cover to plant, consider the plant's height,
spread, blooming period, seasonal foliage color, texture, drought tolerance,
and whether it is deciduous or evergreen and light condition. The planting site
also will affect your choice because each ground cover has specific
requirements.<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Preparing the Soil</b> <br />
<br />
A soil test* will indicate the site's fertility and pH. Most ground covers
prefer a slightly acid to neutral soil (between pH 6.0 and 7.0). If the soil is
low in nitrogen, incorporate enough 1:2:0 or 1:2:1 fertilizer to apply 1 1/2 to
2 pounds of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, or about 30 to 40 pounds of
5-10-5 per 1,000 square feet. Applying highly available phosphorus as a starter
fertilizer is beneficial for root initiation and plant establishment. <br />
<br />
Many ground covers develop crown rot in heavy clay soils that don't drain
well. Adding coarse organic matter, such as composted or aged manure, peat
moss, landscaping mix or compost can improve the drainage of heavy clay soils
and increase the water-holding capacity of light sandy soils. Roto-till or
spade the soil to a 6-inch depth and thoroughly incorporate the organic matter
at a rate of two to three bushels per 100 square feet. <br />
<br />
Soil preparation can cause serious erosion on steep slopes. Working the soil
across the slopes in 12- to 24-inch wide bands alternated with undisturbed soil
will help reduce erosion. Mulching the slope with a fiber mat will further
reduce erosion while conserving moisture and reducing weed competition. <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Planting <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Ground covers should be planted in the spring or fall. However <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">containerized stock can be planted anytime
during the growing season</b> if proper planting and maintenance procedures are
followed. <br />
<br />
The number of plants needed depends on the spacing of the individual plants
their rate of growth and how fast you want the space to fill in. You may want
to densely plant a small, highly visible area for rapid fill, but a large area
may require sparser planting, with several years being allowed for covering the
site. <br />
<br />
To estimate the number of plants needed, first determine the size of the
site in square feet. Considering the average width of the species and the
spacing of individual plants, use Table below to calculate the approximate
number of plants you will need. <br />
<br />
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" style="margin-top: 138px;" width="320" /></a>Planting space required per number of plants. <br />
Space between plants in inches using 50 plants. <br />
<br />
4" between plants 7 sq. ft. <br />
<br />
6" between plants 16 sq. ft. <br />
<br />
8" between plants 28 sq. ft. <br />
<br />
12" between plants 64 sq ft. <br />
<br />
Ground covers can be planted in either straight or staggered rows. Staggered
rows help reduce erosion on slopes by retaining run-off. <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Watering <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Water new plantings thoroughly and regularly until the roots become
established. Once established, water as needed for the ground cover you've
selected--each type has different requirements--but apply at least 1 inch of
water at each watering to moisten the entire root zone. Applying less water
results in a shallow root system which makes the planting more susceptible to
drought injury. <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Controlling Weeds <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Control weeds to enable the newly planted ground cover to form a dense mat.
When properly established, ground covers can successfully compete with weeds.
Hand weeding is effective, but can be time consuming. Mulching is a practical
way to reduce weeds. Nonaggressive annual flowers can be used to fill in spaces
in a new planting. They help shade out weeds but do not inhibit the spreading
growth of the ground cover. Be sure to provide enough moisture for both plant
types so competition is not a problem. <br />
<br />
Pre emergent herbicides can be used to control weeds in large plantings.
Dacthal, Treflan, and Dymid can be used on most ground covers, but always check
the label for specific information on the particular plant. <br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mulching <o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Mulching serves many purposes in a ground cover planting. Two to four inches
of mulch around the plants helps control weeds, maintains a more constant soil
temperature, conserves soil moisture and reduces erosion on slopes. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">One thing to remember when mulching newly
planted ground cover is your mulch will reduce or eliminate most of your
weeding however it will also prohibit the spreading of your ground cover
(usually set that back by about one half to a full growing season)</b> Mulching
helps to protect plants from winter injury resulting from uneven soil
temperatures and soil heaving. Most evergreen ground covers need protection
from winter desiccation (drying). I generally always prefer a shredded Cedar or
shredded Cypress mulch, it's the most expensive but they are the only ones that
do not float and do the best job retaining moisture around your plants. <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Question: </span></b><span style="color: black;">Jimmie,
I know this might sound elementary to you but what exactly is Hardscape?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Thank you
so much for all your columns, I have learned so much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in decimal 6.5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Cristina L. in </span>Prosper</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in decimal 6.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in decimal 6.5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Answer: </b>Hi Cristina, please don’t feel bad about not understanding
a landscaping term you're not familiar with. <span style="color: black;">Hardscape,
or "hardscaping" refers to the inanimate (i.e., non-living) elements
of a landscape. This includes elements made from wood, even though wood was
once animating (in the form of trees). Living plants, by contrast, constitute
the "softscape." In particular, as the name implies,
"hardscape" refers to <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">hard</span>
elements such as those composed of concrete, brick or stone, in addition to
wood. For instance, constructing a patio or deck is a hardscape project, as is
a brick walkway, a stone wall, or a wooden fence. But hardscape goes beyond
large-scale projects such as these. Any non-living ornamentation in your
landscaping is, technically, part of the hardscape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in decimal 6.5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Until next time…….Happy Gardening!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in decimal 6.5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Jimmie</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Send your
landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a></b>
or in care of the Prosper Press at </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">rwilliams@prosperpressnews.com</b>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jimmie is the owner of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company</a></b>.
He is a resident in Prosper. His landscaping and gardening column runs every
other week in the Prosper Press.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a>Jimmie Gibsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10637416944174904722noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-39434597924967080322014-09-05T09:01:00.001-07:002014-09-05T09:01:41.312-07:00Should You Aerate Your Lawn? Probably so!
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Have
you really looked at your lawn lately and noticed it just doesn’t look very
healthy? You are probably pondering about what could be going on and what
could be causing this issue. If, after you have checked for insects,
disease, improper watering and know that your lawn is properly fertilized, you
might consider aerating your lawn. Aerating my lawn? What is
aerating and why should I consider doing it?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Aerating
is the process of inserting holes in your lawn for better water absorption,
nutrient absorption and helping in the process of eliminating thatch. The
problem starts when the top four inches of soil becomes extremely hard and
compact. Like when your trash can is full and you smash it down to make a
little more room. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEklGIxB89O5oSld-VzefHA9Zcnmh_8ViJ1rJKTd2TXYnC3uipNfYAgaYoftDljsVU0Fqj1nfW4ovvfCYC6TFjRNC8piAY_PxkdvJmURCCShSgEwcZDNbvwrXvI33l6yGOt8FvrvjKFSY/s1600/bigstockphoto_Luxury_Home_922261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEklGIxB89O5oSld-VzefHA9Zcnmh_8ViJ1rJKTd2TXYnC3uipNfYAgaYoftDljsVU0Fqj1nfW4ovvfCYC6TFjRNC8piAY_PxkdvJmURCCShSgEwcZDNbvwrXvI33l6yGOt8FvrvjKFSY/s1600/bigstockphoto_Luxury_Home_922261.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Eventually
you run out of room and there is no place else for the trash to go. Well
this is the general concept of compaction. The water and nutrients cannot
penetrate the soil. The thatch from lawn mowing, instead of being
decomposed and returned to the earth will just sit there inviting molds,
mildews, disease and unwanted insects.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Aerating
also enhances oxygen levels to your soil thus stimulating root growth and
speeding up the decomposition of the thatch decomposing organisms. In removing
the plugs of soil from your lawn this process severs roots, rhizomes and
stolons. The affects of this stimulate your grass to produce new shoots
and roots that will fill in the holes and increase the density of your
lawn. It also increases your lawns drought tolerance and you should be
able to see an overall improvement in your lawns health.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
The
type of grass you have (Bermuda or St. Augustine lawns) will pretty much
dictate when to aerate and how deep to make your holes. You should allow at
least four weeks of good growing weather for your lawn to recover. Most of us
in Dallas-Fort Worth area that we consider planting climate zones 7-8 is
composed of warm-season grass, aeration should take place in spring or summer
when the grass is actively growing.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
When
aerating your lawn, it is best to aerate on a day where the temperatures are
milder and the soil in a moist condition, which will make the aerating process
much easier. Aerating wet soil can be a real nuisance due to the fact
that the plugs will get stuck in the hollow tines and can further compact you
soil.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
How
often should I aerate my lawn? There is no real determination time for
this question. The best way to find out if your lawn needs to be aerated
is to do a small test of your soil. A very simple way to make that
determination is to take a screwdriver and insert it into the soil. If
insertion is fairly easy your soil should be just fine. If insertion is
difficult, it is probably time to aerate.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
You
might only need to do a small area in your yard or possibly a large area.
If you only do a small area, you can use a spading fork for the job to insert
holes into the soil. Although this is not really the recommended way to
aerate because it only forces the soil particles around the hole closer
together causing more compaction. It will kind of work, but you will not
get the desired affect you are hoping to achieve. So it is recommended
that you purchase a sod-coring tool from your local home improvement
store. These are not very expensive and they do a lot better job.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
For
larger areas you will have to use an actual aerator. Since this is an
item that you really will not use very often, you can rent one from a local
lawn and garden center or there are many other equipment rental businesses that
more than likely will have aerator available for rent.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Txnd_GEWcfLMn_xfW7dekTeAEJUNLdrx8YYgainqYp8CidU8VDKFW-SavxskYNQCEnWNRmzMJovlM62L1PC-kha3draB_99feeJzRGXkpc26NaayahJsoVcFucw4kiqG-TcB2h3f5YG4/s1600/prosperlandscaping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Txnd_GEWcfLMn_xfW7dekTeAEJUNLdrx8YYgainqYp8CidU8VDKFW-SavxskYNQCEnWNRmzMJovlM62L1PC-kha3draB_99feeJzRGXkpc26NaayahJsoVcFucw4kiqG-TcB2h3f5YG4/s1600/prosperlandscaping.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Your
penetration depth will depend on the type of soil you have, the moisture levels
of your soil, and the tine diameter, weight and power of the aerator. You
can contact a local landscaper or garden center for the specific specifications
for you soil type. You should also leave the soil plugs on the
lawn. Rain and traffic will eventually break the up the plugs. The
plugs are actually very beneficial as they contain microorganisms that help to
decompose any layers of thatch that are present.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
This
is the basics of why you should aerate you lawn and the benefits of
aeration. Once you have decided to aerate and see the end results, you
will be glad you did. If you would like more detailed information on
aeration you can do some research on the web or you can contact your local
greenhouse or garden and they would be more than willing to give you advice and
assistance. Enjoy your almost new lawn!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Question:</b> Hi Jimmie, I am hoping you
can help me with my question. I have these funny looking little things growing
on my Azaleas. I emailed you a picture from a contact link on your website,
(awesome site by the way!) Do you have any idea what they could be? And will
they harm my Azaleas? Thank you for your time. Pam C. in Prosper</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Answer: </b>Hi Pam, thanks for the
compliment and yes I did receive your picture you sent in and have positively
identified those as "azalea leaf galls" (or "azalea galls")
and are not considered overly serious. They're caused by a fungus. Pick off the
leaves where the azalea leaf galls occur and dispose of them properly: Do <b>not</b>
put them in the compost and do <b>not</b> leave them lying around on the
ground, or the fungus will spread to your other branches. A generic fungicide
can be sprayed on your plants late fall or early winter to avoid this from
happening again next year.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Until
next time…Happy Gardening!!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Jimmie</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Send your
landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a></b>
or in care of the Prosper Press at </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">rwilliams@prosperpressnews.com</b>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jimmie is the owner of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company</a></b>.
He is a resident in Prosper. His landscaping and gardening column runs every
other week in the Prosper Press.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
Jimmie Gibsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10637416944174904722noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-62051512048731885692014-08-01T14:41:00.000-07:002014-08-01T14:41:43.700-07:00<div align="center" class="NormalWeb3" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Swamped
with yard work? Turn off your sprinklers and try this instead!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
about everything's big in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place></st1:state>.
But when it comes to water, well, there's little to speak of. So how do some <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place></st1:state> homeowners
reconcile their desire for vast green yards with a shortage of H<sub>2</sub>O?
The answer is </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.handyman-can.com/project_photos/images/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ab2" border="0" src="http://www.handyman-can.com/project_photos/images/4.jpg" height="240" title="ab1" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Xeriscaping</b> -- a very
big word indeed. <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Derived
from the Greek word <i>xeros</i>, meaning dry, xeriscaping is a form of
landscaping that's miserly with water. And while it may conjure up images of
tumbleweed landscapes devoid of greenery save the occasional cactus, you can
bet your 10-gallon hat that a xeriscaped yard can be as beautiful and lush as
any other type of landscape. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Xeriscaping</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> fundamentals
include using native and adaptive plants, creating efficient irrigation
systems, improving soil quality, and mulching. In places like central Texas,
where droughts are so bad you can get fined up to $5,000 for over watering,
residents who xeriscape may reduce the amount of water used for yard work by as
much as 60 percent. And xeriscaped yards require less work overall -- a big
draw for those who have endured unbearably hot summers trying to revive a
once-plush blanket of Bermuda grass turned burnt brown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">"Mow
grass and drag water hoses -- that's what I did all summer," says Dave
Watson, a retired electrician in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state></st1:place> and client of mine
recalling the upkeep needed for his old yard. Fed up with the hassle, Watson
turned to xeriscaping 11 years ago. Today he grows wildflowers and buffalo
grass, a native prairie grass that can be left to grow naturally (it reaches a
maximum height of 6 to 8 inches) and is drought- and cold- tolerant. For Watson,
it was a cure for the summertime blues: "I love it. There's no watering
and fertilizing. A couple times a year, I'll mow. Other than that, I do nothing
to take care of it." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today
more than 40 states have xeriscape projects, and because xeriscapes are based
on climate, there is great variation: An upstate <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">New York</st1:place></st1:state> yard teeming with bee balms,
sunflowers, tulips, daffodils, grape hyacinths, snowdrops, and daylilies, for
example, contrasts sharply with the irises, cornflowers, yarrows, <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state> poppies, and
catchflies that thrive in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Reno</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">Nevada</st1:state></st1:place>. Obviously, a place
doesn't have to be parched to benefit from xeriscaping. Most North American
landscapes are a disaster ecologically, the whole public has been trained to over
water and over fertilize. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Finding
what grows well in your yard is key to an effective xeriscape. One rule of the
green thumb: Choose plants that are native to within a 50-mile radius of your
home. Native plant societies, water districts, and university extension
departments often keep such lists. Many cities also have xeriscape
demonstration gardens. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Another
trick to a successful xeriscape is grouping together plants with similar water
needs. For instance, you wouldn't put thirsty roses next to cacti -- the water
required for one would be wasted on the other (not to mention they'd have
nothing to talk about!). <b>Xeriscaping</b>
also allows for an "oasis zone," where gardeners grow a few prized
water-guzzling plants. The oasis zone is often located in the front of a home
where these plants can be easily watered and admired. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
is this nation of nozzle junkies ready to dive into xeriscaping? "Most
people aren't going to take the plunge," says Watson. "Perhaps if
they would try a small section of the yard first, I feel 90 percent of them
would be convinced." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="NormalWeb3">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Plants
used for <b>Xeriscaping</b> should he
selected for their low water requirements, adaptability to the region's soil
and climate, and visual appeal. <st1:place w:st="on">South/Central Texas</st1:place>
is blessed with an abundance of beautiful native</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.daviddarling.info/images/xeriscaping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.daviddarling.info/images/xeriscaping.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
plants. Most have lower water
demands, fewer pest problems and lower fertilizer needs than many exotic plants
brought into the area.<br />
<br />
Through the efforts of local nurserymen, native <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place></st1:state> plants are readily available in area
nurseries and garden centers. <b>Xeriscaping</b>
uses many of these native plants; plus many well-adapted exotic plants that
also have lower water demands. Sounds like it's time to get our feet wet!<o:p></o:p><br />
<b>QUESTION:</b> Jimmie, I just planted a 3 gallon Oleander. The one I just
planted has one bloom on it. I realize it will take some time to get it to look
like it should. Should I prune it and when? Thanks so much for your columns,
they really help me out! Pamela B. in Prosper<br />
<b>ANSWER:</b> Hi Pamela,<br />
The oleander requires very little in the way of attention or care. Oleanders
are normally grown as multi-trunk shrubs in areas where they are subject to
freeze damage. In frost free climates they can be grown as trees. If they do
get frozen back, they are normally root hardy in our part of the world and will
return vigorously from their roots. Use only 'Hardy Pink' or 'Hardy Red'
varieties for minimum cold damage. Since they bloom on new growth, pruning is
normally done just before they break dormancy in the spring. Tip pruning at
that time will increase the fullness of the plant and therefore the blossoms.
While it is no problem unless the plant material is ingested, you need to be
aware that all portions of plant are extremely toxic. This means absolutely no
marshmallow roasts using the stems for roasting sticks!<br />
<b>QUESTION:</b> Jimmie, I don’t know if you can help me but here goes,<br />
About 7 years ago my husband and I were eating grapefruits and as a joke he
put a single grapefruit seed in a planter that had housed a palm tree which had
died. Well, a few months later something sprouted and continued to grow......It
is now about two feet high and has a small leaf attached to a larger leaf on
the stem and also has some serious thorns. Do we have a grapefruit tree? We are
looking forward to your reply when you have time, Thank You, Rachael K. in
Prosper<br />
<br />
<b>ANSWER: </b>Hi Rachael,<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Yes, you do!!!! The tree has thorns because it is in a
juvenile state. Once the tree matures and starts to flower, it will not have
thorns. However, if the tree is only two feet tall after 7 years, it will take
a long time for that to happen. It you want to try to get the tree to fruit,
you need to put it in full sunlight and fertilize it regularly. Or you can just
enjoy the tree as a houseplant. Until next time….Happy Gardening!!</span>chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-52695473961174041472014-08-01T14:36:00.001-07:002014-08-01T14:36:41.264-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">"LEAVES OF THREE LET IT BE"!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
This rhyme pertains to the identification of two of the "big
three": namely, poison ivy and poison oak. The rhyme does not, however, pertain to identifying
the third member of the triad of poisonous plants with which to avoid contact
-- the shrub, poison sumac. But people are far more likely to come into contact
with the other two members of the triad than with poison sumac. <br />
The plant's 3-leaf trademark mentioned earlier
assumes a reddish tinge when the leaves first come out in the spring, but the
leaves turn green in the summer. Although the color of its berries is often
mentioned as a way of identifying the plant, it is not as reliable as is leaf
identification. The berries, after all, are produced only at the end of the growing
season; knowing about the berries would do you little good when attempting
identification in the spring. Incidentally, poison ivy, poison oak and poison
sumac all have white berries. The non-poisonous varieties of sumac have red berries. <o:p></o:p><br />
But if you're reading this article while plagued
with the itching that the plant brings, you'll be much more interested in
hearing some treatment tips and the quickest way getting back to life as you
normally live it! <b>(I can still remember
my first adventure with poison Ivy on a fishing trip with my dad at the age of
6 years old, but of course my dad convinced me it was worth it since we caught
all those fish!)<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<h2>
<a href="http://afarmhousereborn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/poisonivy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://afarmhousereborn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/poisonivy.jpg" height="217" width="320" /></a><b><span style="font-size: 14.5pt;">Is Poison Ivy Rash Contagious?<o:p></o:p></span></b></h2>
Now that we've identified poison ivy on let's
consider the matter of treating poison ivy rash. When we speak of a cure or
treatment for poison ivy rash, we generally mean relief from its symptoms. Once
the symptoms occur (itchy bumps on your skin), relief is the only remedy we
seek -- before we scratch ourselves to death! Different people find different
degrees of relief by treating poison ivy rash with over-the-counter remedies,
such as hydrocortisones. Despite its inclusion in the classic rock song,
"Poison Ivy," even Calamine lotion has its limitations as a
treatment. <o:p></o:p><br />
Some people have such a severe reaction to poison
ivy that they need to visit a physician and get a shot. It usually takes about
two weeks to get rid of poison ivy rash. <o:p></o:p><br />
But there is another kind of treatment of poison
ivy rash: namely, prevention. If you realize you've just come into contact with
poison ivy, take the following steps immediately: <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Apply rubbing
alcohol to the infected area. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Rinse with
water (any water). <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. Wash up with
soap and warm water. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
So what makes poison ivy (and poison oak and
poison sumac, too)...well, poisonous? The answer is urushiol, which is the sap
that runs through all parts of the plant. Grazing against poison ivy with any
exposed part of your body is all that it takes to release this poison.
Complicating matters further, contact with poison ivy does not even have to be direct for you to contract the rash.
For instance, if your dog runs through some poison ivy, then you stroke your
dog's fur with your hand; you could come into contact with the sap and develop
a rash. Likewise, if someone else had been working in a poison ivy-infested
area with gloves, then you came along and touched those contaminated gloves,
you could get the rash. <o:p></o:p><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">So if the poison is spread that
easily, poison ivy must be contagious, right? Wrong. It's only the urushiol
that puts you at risk. Scratching your bumps doesn't cause the poison ivy to
spread to other areas of your body. Nor will you contract the rash just by
touching somebody else's rash bumps. <o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<h2>
<b><span style="font-size: 14.5pt;">Poison Ivy Control: Get Rid of It with Organic Methods, Herbicides<o:p></o:p></span></b></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tipsfromashton.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/p1010007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://tipsfromashton.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/p1010007.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></div>
First of all, a word about prevention is in order,
before discussing any actions to be taken for getting rid of poison ivy plants
on the landscape. When approaching poison ivy to engage it in battle, try to
have as little of your skin exposed as possible, since it is through physical
contact with the plant (<b>any</b> part of the plant!) that the rash is
contracted. At the very least, this means wearing gloves, long-sleeved shirt
and full-length pants. Secondly, understand that any of the methods discussed
below may have to be implemented more than once to achieve complete success. <o:p></o:p><br />
One organic method to eradicate, or at least
control, poison ivy is to pull it out by the roots.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The roots must be disposed of; do not burn! Inhaling fumes from burning
poison ivy causes far greater health problems than just the rash caused by skin
contact. Another natural method is to smother the poison ivy. Smothering
entails cutting it back close to the ground, then placing newspapers,
cardboard, old carpeting, tarps, mulch or some other covering on top of it.
However, be aware that, even after they are killed, the plants remain toxic. So
be careful in disposing of the roots of the dead plants after pulling back the
smothering agent (even if you've waited for years). <o:p></o:p></div>
Herbicides can also be used in the control or
eradication of poison ivy. Roundup spray is a popular glyphosate-based
herbicide for killing poison ivy. Another widely-available herbicide is Ortho
Brush-B-Gon, which is triclopyr-based. But they will kill many other plants,
too, so don't use them near plants you wish to keep. If you choose to apply
these herbicides by spraying, here's what to do: <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
You'll need a tank sprayer; mix the product with water,
according to directions. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Apply when the poison ivy is fully leafed out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pick a day with little or no wind for spraying. Also, check
your forecast: don't spray if rain is predicted at any time within the next 24
hours. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For poison ivy growing on the ground or on a wall, heavily
spray the leaves and vines of the poison ivy. Old plants have large hairy vines
-- another dead giveaway for identifying poison ivy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For poison ivy climbing up a tree, you may wish to
"paint" the herbicide on, so as to preclude damaging the tree with a
stray mist from your sprayer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m swamped again with work and I promise to try my best to
get to all of your questions as soon as possible. Until next time…Happy
Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-30477135901856965652014-08-01T14:30:00.001-07:002014-08-01T14:30:18.775-07:00<div class="MsoTitle">
<span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">WANT TO ATTRACT HUMMINGBIRDS??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">HERE'S HOW!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The soaring aerial acrobats of Cirque de Soleil look like
flightless dodo birds compared to the flight of Hummingbirds. Their incredible
feats of motion, zipping along at super speed, then stopping to hover and fly
backwards, amaze all viewers, especially aviation engineers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://awaytogarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Broad-billed-Hummingbird-%C2%A9-Tom-Grey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://awaytogarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Broad-billed-Hummingbird-%C2%A9-Tom-Grey.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a>Ruby-throated hummingbirds are the most common type seen in
Texas. The males start scouting for food sources a few weeks ahead of the
migration of the females and can be seen as early as April. The highest
populations congregate around gardens and feeders in July.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watching aerial antics of hummers is quite entertaining and
I offer these following tips to help you entice these colorful little birds to
your yard for your mutual enjoyment.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Plant masses of flowers that hummers love to sip. They
particularly like the colors red, pink, and orange. The list below shows some
of their favorite flowers that grow well in our area.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2.Provide perches for the birds using dead branches or
planted shrubs that are not too dense. Hummers spend about 80 percent of their
time sitting on twigs, branches or clotheslines surveying the area and
protecting their food source.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. Install water feature that drips or mists water. Hummers
enjoy bathing and flying through mist, and the sounds of these water features
attract their notice. Observing them flying through water vapor is as amusing
as watching children play in a sprinkler.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Avoid the use of pesticides in your gardens and yard,
both inorganic and organic. Killing garden pests eliminates the small insects
hummingbirds eat for their protein source. Hummers are very sensitive to toxic
materials, which might be retained on the flowers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Put nectar feeders out in mid-April when the scouts start
their migration north, looking for routes that have nearby food sources. They
will tell their buddies about your roadside diner for their trip later in the
spring.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. Decorate your feeder with red ribbon or bright orange
surveying tape. This would be the equivalent of the neon “Eat Here” sign on the
hummer highway.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7. Keep your feeder clean and your sugar solution fresh.
Wash the feeder with vinegar and hot water (no detergents) and scrub with a
bottlebrush at every refill. Replace the sugar water every two or three days.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8. Keep ants out of the feeder by using an ant guard on the
feeder hanger. You can purchase them, or make one by drilling a hole in a
plastic film canister, sliding the hanger through the hole and filling the
canister with water. Ants will not survive the water obstacle and be unable to
march down into the feeder, as long as you keep the water level up. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9. Hang your feeder in a shady spot, or provide shade with
an umbrella (a red one would be the best). This keeps the nectar cooler in the
heat of the summer.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10. Make your own hummingbird nectar. Boil four cups of
water and one cup of white sugar for one minute. Do not use honey or red
coloring. You may store this solution for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2>
BEST HUMMINGBIRD PLANTS:</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2>
Shrubs-</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Abelia, Azaleas, Butterfly Bushes, Firebush, Turk’s Cap,
Vitex, and Wiegela.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2>
<a href="http://robertasgardens.net/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1200x1200/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/u/buddleia_butterfly_bush_pink_delight_001_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://robertasgardens.net/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1200x1200/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/u/buddleia_butterfly_bush_pink_delight_001_1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>Vines-</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Crossvine, Honeysuckle, Morning Glory, Trumpet Vines,
Jasmine vines.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2>
Flowers-</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bee balm, Cardinal flower, Columbine, Coral Belles,
Impatiens, Pentas, Salvia.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie, I have Vinca groundcover in my garden and every
summer it seems to die back for some reason. Any thoughts?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you, Cassidy P. in Prosper</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hi Cassidy, Your problem sounds like leafrollers. Use a
systemic insecticide to treat it. Spray 3 to 4 weeks prior to the time you
usually begin having problems. Since the leafrollers get themselves sequestered
within the leaves, only a systemic product can reach them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie, Is there anything available at all (Pandas, poison,
ANYTHING !!!) we can use to stop the spreading of Bamboo adjacent to a water
garden? Thanks in advance,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R.K. in Prosper</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear R.K. Glyphosate herbicides do some good in controlling
bamboo, but they are certainly not the perfect answer. The more top growth that
is coated with the spray, the better the control will be. However, these
herbicides also kill other foliage on which they are sprayed, so you would have
to be very selective. Honestly, the best plan is to just dig it out and keep
digging new sprouts until it no longer offers to regrow. If you would like to
keep it permanently, you should install a root barrier dug 25 to 30 inches into
the ground as a means of keeping it in bounds.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie, What is the best remedy for grasshoppers? Thanks for
all your articles, I really enjoy them!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cindy B. in Prosper</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hi Cindy, Many general-purpose organic and inorganic
insecticides are labeled for use on grasshoppers. One of the most important
factors is in your means of applying them. It’s usually best to spray down over
the tops of your plants so that the spray will coat the grasshoppers as they
try to fly away. Of course, cutting all the tall weeds and grass in proximity
to your landscape and garden will also help. Until next time…….Happy
gardening!!</div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-31366429298975494632014-06-19T19:19:00.001-07:002014-06-19T19:19:42.250-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">Analyzing Me And Your Soil<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
About this time of year each year I have already been asked about 500
times.. "Jimmie what is the best fertilizer to put down on my yard?"
I usually try to give a generic answer and move on because to really give folks
an accurate answer to their question well, it takes more time than either one
of us has. So to you 500 or so people hope you take the time to read further!<br />
Testing your soil is the smart way to start and maintain your garden. Only
by knowing the nutrient levels in your soil can you determine what you need to
add to your garden in order to maximize growth. And yes<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/51/SOIL_PROFILE.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/51/SOIL_PROFILE.png" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
everyone's house can be
a bit different.<br />
A good quality Soil Test Kit results will give you the necessary information
to make the correct fertilizer selections throughout the gardening season. <br />
Knowledge of nutrient levels in your soil gives you an incredibly useful
tool. Think of this information as you would any other necessary gardening tool
and use it in achieving your goal of a successful garden. <br />
What type of soil your garden contains is important to know because it
influences how well nutrients and moisture will be maintained by the soil.
There are two basic extremes in soil texture: sand and clay. <br />
<st1:city w:st="on">Sandy</st1:city> soil
has large, gritty particles and will feel coarse when rubbed between your
fingers, much like beach sand. <st1:city w:st="on">Sandy</st1:city>
soil is loose enough to allow for good airflow through the soil, but does not
hold moisture or nutrients very well. <br />
Clay soil has small, fine particles and will feel smooth between your fingers.
Clay soil holds moisture and nutrients well, but can be difficult to dig or
till during garden preparation because of its tendency to clump. <br />
Most garden soils will be a combination of sand and clay. The ideal
combination of sandy and clay soil is referred to as loam. Loam combines the
beneficial properties of each soil type and provides your plants with the best
growing environment. Loam is sandy enough to allow for drainage and air
circulation, but also contains enough clay to retain adequate levels of
moisture and nutrients. If your garden soil is not the perfect loam, don't
worry most are not. <st1:city w:st="on">Sandy</st1:city>
and clay soils can be compensated for in the treatment and maintenance of your
garden. <br />
Now that you know what type of soil your garden contains, let's talk about
the importance of testing the pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium levels in
your soil. Each of these elements performs a different function in the growth
of plants. <br />
PH-pH is not a nutrient; it is a measure of soil acidity or alkalinity. The
pH level of your soil determines how well the plants are able to use the
nutrients in the soil. In general, the ideal pH range for garden soil is 6-7.
At this pH level, plants are able to draw adequate amounts of nutrients from
the soil efficiently. <br />
When the pH level of the soil is out of this range, plants are not able to
use the nutrients in the soil efficiently. So a garden with good levels of
Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium may still not live up to expectations if
the pH level is out of range. <br />
Although the nutrients are there, an incorrect pH level will prevent the
plants from drawing what they need from the soil. Because soil pH has a
tendency to drop over time, it is important to test it regularly. <br />
Nitrogen-Nitrogen in your soil will affect the part of the plant that is
above ground, especially the green, leafy sections. Correct levels of Nitrogen
will promote healthy green foliage. Therefore, you will find that vegetables
such as lettuce and spinach, as well as lawns, have high Nitrogen requirements.
<br />
Nitrogen is one of the most difficult nutrients to maintain in your garden
as it is easily washed away by rain water. The Nitrogen level in your soil can,
therefore, deplete quickly. For this reason, it is especially important to test
regularly for Nitrogen. <br />
Phosphorus-Phosphorus in soil is essential for strong root formation and
root system development. Phosphorus also contributes to quicker flower and
fruit production by helping to protect the plant against disease and poor
weather conditions. <br />
Potassium-Potassium is responsible for seed formation and germination in
flowers, fruits, or vegetables. Obtaining maximum vegetable, flower, or fruit
formation requires correct levels of potassium. <br />
Soil testing is the only way to determine the levels of these nutrients in
your soil. Results from your Soil Test Kit will help you make educated
decisions when starting and maintaining your garden. <br />
<a href="http://www.orchidplantcare.info/wp-content/uploads/NPK-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.orchidplantcare.info/wp-content/uploads/NPK-01.png" /></a>These elements to adjust pH can be found in your local lawn and garden
retail store. They will be sold under different brand names, so look for
ingredients on the package to find the correct pH adjuster. <br />
Fertilizers that are pre-mixed are rated on their Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and
Potassium contents. The ratings on a fertilizer package are always in this
order: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). Therefore, the numbers
specified on a fertilizer package (<st1:date day="10" month="5" w:st="on" year="2005">5-10-5</st1:date> or <st1:date day="20" month="10" w:st="on" year="2010">10-20-10</st1:date>)
refer to the percentages of N, P, and K that are found in that particular
fertilizer. There are a large variety of fertilizers available. <br />
It is easy to find a pre-mixed fertilizer selection that will have a
nutrient combination to suit the needs of your<st1:date day="10" ls="trans" month="10" w:st="on" year="2010">10-10-10</st1:date>, for
example). Using this idea, you can easily pick out a pre-mixed fertilizer that
will meet the needs of your soil. <br />
soil. Simply look at your soil
test results and identify which nutrient levels need to be increased. If your test
results show that you need to increase your Nitrogen level, but your Phosphorus
and Potassium levels are sufficient, look for a fertilizer selection that has a
high N level and low or no P and K (25-5-5 or 25-0-0, for example). Or if all
of your nutrients need to be increased, look for a fertilizer that contains all
three nutrient levels in relatively equal amounts (20-20-20 or <br />
<b>Now you see when you stopped me at
CVS or Exxon I couldn't really answer your question, we would've both been
late!!</b> Until next time…Happy Gardening!!!<br />
<br />
Jimmiechrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-45624722937857784092014-06-19T19:13:00.000-07:002014-06-19T19:13:01.828-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">WORRIED ABOUT THOSE PESKY MOSQUITOES?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">READ THIS......!</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Do you spend a significant amount of time outside in your yard in summer? Then you know
that insect bites are a fact of life. Such awareness could well save your life
in this age of the <st1:place w:st="on">West Nile</st1:place> virus, when
insect bites can be deadly. But if you're concerned about the long-term health
consequences of applying chemicals to your skin, then the use of <b>natural</b>
mosquito repellants may be your solution to the challenge posed by <st1:place w:st="on">West Nile</st1:place> virus. If we take "natural mosquito
repellants" in the broadest sense, a number of options present themselves.<br />
<h3>
Natural Mosquito Repellants:</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://heathfultipsandremedies.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/mosquitoplantlarge-1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://heathfultipsandremedies.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/mosquitoplantlarge-1b.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a><b>Plant oils: e.g., from citronella, castor bean or catnip plants</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Certain bath oils, such as Avon's "Skin-So-Soft"</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Devices such as the Mosquito Magnet</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>How you dress: avoid dark clothing</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Attacking the problem at the source: mosquito-larvae control</b></h3>
Citronella products are widely used natural mosquito repellants<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some people burn citronella in a candle, while others apply
it to the skin as topical oil. In the latter case, citronella is sometimes used
in concert with other oils, derived from plants such as castor bean or catnip. </div>
You've probably heard of high tech's answer for natural mosquito repellants:
the Mosquito Magnet (and similar products). It's a device that gives off a gas
simulating human breath, whereby it lures mosquitoes into its death chamber.
There are also many Mosquito misting type systems that can be professionally or
self installed as well.<br />
Even how you dress can
influence whether you suffer insect bites. Mosquitoes are drawn to dark-colored
clothing. So while not technically "natural mosquito repellants,"
clothes that are light-colored can certainly be viewed as weapons in your
mosquito-control arsenal.<br />
<h3>
From a Landscaping Perspective, What can be done About <st1:place w:st="on">West
Nile</st1:place> Virus?</h3>
Besides using mosquito repellants to protect your person against insect
bites, those working on the landscape <b>can</b> take measures to help stop the
spread of <st1:place w:st="on">West Nile</st1:place> virus. Since <st1:place w:st="on">West Nile</st1:place> virus is transmitted to humans via mosquitoes,
and since the larvae of mosquitoes are found in standing water, one group of
measures should obviously focus on sources of standing water in your
landscaping. But just what those sources consist of can be far from obvious. <br />
<h2>
Prevention: Killing Mosquito Larvae</h2>
We know that fish eat bugs. So perhaps you've thought, "Too bad there
isn't there a 'mosquito fish' I could put in my water garden to eat mosquito
larvae." Well, believe it or not, the mosquito fish isn't a mythical beast,
a benevolent creature found only in our dreams, like the mermaid. There really
is such a thing as a <b>mosquito fish</b>!<br />
I'll have more to say about the mosquito fish below. But first, let's
consider the role of mosquito larvae in our war against <st1:place w:st="on">West
Nile</st1:place> virus.<br />
Successfully killing mosquitoes is based on a simple yet important
observation. When mosquitoes become adults, they rule the skies. Locating and
killing winged bugs is difficult. Let's face it: the bugs are small and the sky
is big. It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack. <br />
Consequently, mosquito control that focuses instead on killing mosquito <b>larvae</b>
or depriving mosquitoes of breeding grounds makes a lot of sense.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you can eliminate sources of standing water on your
landscaping (in which mosquito larvae are born), you're hitting mosquitoes
where it really hurts. Or else you can kill the mosquito larvae while they're
still confined to the water. They're sitting ducks while they remain wingless,
swimming in an artificial pond, say, or a swimming pool -- because they're in a
medium (water) that is contained in a finite, easily-managed area. This is the
time to kill them! And you can even do so without resorting to chemicals, if
you prefer, for instance:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By using BT bacteria (<i>Bacillus
thuringiensis</i>), which attack mosquito larvae but pose no threat to
other life forms.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Or by acquiring the eaters of
mosquito larvae mentioned above, the aptly named "mosquito
fish."</div>
But before considering ways to kill the larvae in areas of your landscaping
where you intentionally keep standing water, let's look at some of the sources
of standing water that you might not immediately think of:<br />
<br />
Water buckets and rain
barrels.<br />
<br />
Bottles and cans.<br />
<br />
Empty plastic pots from the
nursery and other concave odds and ends you threw in a pile behind the
garage.<br />
<br />
Old car tires (notorious
rain-catchers).<br />
<br />
That wheelbarrow you've been
meaning to bring inside, as soon as you fix its flat tire....<br />
<br />
Boat tarps or pool covers in
which water can puddle.<br />
<br />
Uneven areas in lawns or
gardens where irrigation water can collect.<br />
<br />
Clogged rain gutters and
clogged drains.<br />
<br />
Birdbaths and water bowls for
pets.<br />
<br />
Seepage from septic tanks.<br />
<br />
But that still leaves the standing water that you wish to keep, such as that
in swimming pools and <a href="http://landscaping.about.com/cs/pondwatergarden/a/water_fountains.htm"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">water
fountains</span></a>. How can you kill the mosquito larvae which may be lurking
in these places?<br />
<a href="http://blog.shoptrailblazer.com/wp-content/uploads/mosquito-clipart-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.shoptrailblazer.com/wp-content/uploads/mosquito-clipart-6.jpg" height="278" width="320" /></a><br />
Keep swimming pools clean,
aerated and chlorinated.<br />
<br />
A bacteria called
"Bti" (<i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i>) is often used for mosquito
larvae control in standing water.<br />
<br />
Aerate artificial ponds.<br />
<br />
Avoid the temptation to mass
aquatic plants together excessively in artificial ponds (mosquito larvae
can hide from the fish if the vegetation is dense).<br />
<br />
Stock artificial ponds with
fish that eat mosquito larvae.<br />
<br />
But which fish are the best eaters of mosquito larvae? Minnows and goldfish
are common denizens of artificial ponds, and they do a fine job of eating
mosquito larvae. But another fish, <i>Gambusia affinis</i>, has acquired such a
reputation as an eater of mosquito larvae that it has been nicknamed,
"mosquito fish." Contact your local municipality regarding the
availability of mosquito fish in your area. Formerly an obscure species, the
mosquito fish is now enjoying the limelight due to the <st1:place w:st="on">West
Nile</st1:place> invasion of <st1:place w:st="on">North America</st1:place>. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will to get to your questions next time, swamped with
work!! Until next time…Happy Gardening!!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-7775275923806918212014-06-19T19:04:00.002-07:002014-06-19T19:04:41.682-07:00It's Really Okay To Hug That Tree !! <br />
<br />
You know, most trees and shrubs in cities or communities are planted to
provide beauty or shade. These are two excellent reasons for their use. Woody
plants (like shrubs) also serve many other purposes, and it often is helpful to
consider these other functions when selecting a tree or shrub for the
landscape. The benefits of trees can be grouped into <b>social, community, environmental and economic categories</b>. <br />
<a href="http://philadelphiagreen.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/tree.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="ab1" border="0" src="http://philadelphiagreen.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/tree.png" height="320" title="ab1" width="254" /></a><b>Social Benefits</b>: We like trees
around us because they make life more pleasant. Most of us respond to the
presence of trees beyond simply observing their beauty. We feel serene,
peaceful, restful and tranquil in a grove of trees. We are "at home"
there. Hospital patients have been shown to recover from surgery more quickly
when their hospital room offered a view of trees. The strong ties of people and
trees are most evident in the resistance of community residents to removing
trees to widen streets. Or we note the heroic efforts of individuals and
organizations to save particularly large or historic trees in a community. <br />
The stature, strength, and endurance of trees give them a cathedral-like
quality. Because of the potential for long life, trees are frequently planted
as living memorials. We often become personally attached to trees that we or
those we love have planted. <br />
<b>Community Benefits:</b> Even though
trees may be private property, their size often makes them part of the
community as well. Since trees occupy considerable space, planning is required
if both you and your neighbors are to benefit. With proper selection and
maintenance, trees can enhance and function on one property without infringing
upon the rights and privileges of neighbors. <br />
City trees often serve several architectural and engineering functions. They
provide privacy, emphasize views or screen out objectionable views. They reduce
glare and reflection. They direct pedestrian traffic. They provide backgrounds,
or soften, complement or enhance architecture. <br />
Trees bring natural elements and wildlife habitats into urban surroundings;
all of which increase the quality of life for residents of the community. <br />
<b>Environmental Benefits:</b> Trees
alter the environment in which we live by moderating climate, improving air
quality, conserving water and harboring wildlife. Climate control is obtained
by moderating the effects of sun, wind, and rain. Radiant energy from the sun
is absorbed or deflected by leaves on deciduous trees in the summer and is only
filtered by branches of deciduous trees in winter. We are cooler when we stand
in the shade of trees and are not exposed to direct sunlight. <br />
In winter, we value the sun's radiant energy; and because of this, we should
plant only small or deciduous trees on the south side of homes. Wind speed and
trees can affect direction. The more compact the foliage on the tree or group
of trees, the greater the influence of the windbreak. The downward fall of
rain, sleet and hail is initially absorbed or deflected by trees and this
provides some protection for people, pets and buildings. Trees intercept
waters, store some of it, and reduce storm run-off and the possibility of
flooding. Dew and frost are less common under trees because less radiant energy
is released from the soil in those areas at night. <br />
Temperature in the vicinity of trees is cooler than that away from trees.
The larger the tree, the greater the cooling. By using trees in the cities, we
are able to moderate the heat island effect caused by pavement and buildings in
commercial areas. <br />
Air quality can be improved through the use of trees, shrubs and turf.
Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particulates.
Rain-washes the pollutants to the ground. Leaves absorb carbon dioxide from the
air to form carbohydrates that are used in the plant's structure and function.
In this process, leaves also absorb other air pollutants such as ozone, carbon
monoxide, and sulfur dioxide, and give off oxygen. <br />
By planting trees and shrubs, we return to a more natural and less
artificial environment. Birds and other wildlife are attracted to the area. The
natural cycles of plant growth, reproduction and decomposition are again
present, both above and below ground. Natural harmony is restored to the urban
environment. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3YBRkDpWzOj3NVhM90du84PEoWU549BCy3h_VEUCysWgfI-7ugtGwmakHrbzLFT_Wx-XVIkqjU14Iqz6UZuZt3JGgEF9W50dv4Y79fiuO1jdLctP7AVhgytzvNSrD6VnPuZfLWBLDRnS/s1600/shade+on+south+side+of+home.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3YBRkDpWzOj3NVhM90du84PEoWU549BCy3h_VEUCysWgfI-7ugtGwmakHrbzLFT_Wx-XVIkqjU14Iqz6UZuZt3JGgEF9W50dv4Y79fiuO1jdLctP7AVhgytzvNSrD6VnPuZfLWBLDRnS/s1600/shade+on+south+side+of+home.JPG" height="240" title="ab" width="320" /></a><b>Economic Benefits:</b> Property
values of landscaped homes are 5-20% higher than those of non-landscaped homes.
Individual trees and shrubs have value, but the variability of species, size,
condition and function makes determining their economic value quite difficult.
The economic benefits of trees can be both direct and indirect. <br />
Direct economic benefits are usually associated with energy costs. Air
conditioning costs are lower in a tree-shaded home. Heating costs are reduced
when a home has a windbreak. Trees increase in value from the time they are
planted until they mature. Trees are a wise investment of funds since
landscaped homes are more valuable than non-landscaped homes. The savings in
energy costs and the increase in property value directly benefit each
homeowner. <br />
The indirect economic benefits of trees are even greater. These are
available to the community or region. Lowered electricity bills are paid by
customers when power companies are able to use less water in their cooling
towers, build fewer new facilities to meet peak demands, use reduced amounts of
fossil fuel in their furnaces and need fewer measures to control air pollution.
<br />
Communities can also save if fewer facilities must be built to control storm
water in the region. To the individual these savings are small, but to the
community, reductions in these expenses are often in the thousands of dollars. <br />
Trees provide numerous aesthetic and economic benefits but also incur some
costs. You need to be aware that an investment is required for your trees to
provide the benefits that you desire. The biggest cost of trees and shrubs
occurs when they are purchased and planted. Initial care almost always includes
some watering. Leaf, branch and whole tree removal and disposal can be
expensive. To function well in the landscape, trees require maintenance. Much
can be done by the informed homeowner. Corrective pruning and mulching will
give trees a good start. Shade trees, however, quickly grow to a size that may
require the services of a professional. <br />
<br />
I apologize for not getting to all your questions I have been getting. It’s
our busiest time of year and simply have not had sufficient time to do so. The
good news is your all getting personal replies from me (although it may 2:00 am
when you get them!) Until next time…Happy Gardening!!chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-83382326832472579672014-05-10T07:00:00.002-07:002014-05-10T07:00:35.703-07:00Want a great container garden?? Here's how<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Want a great container
garden?? Here's how<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Living in the Dallas area you can grow almost anything in a
container. A simple potted basil plant could be considered a container garden,
but there are so many other possibilities.</div>
Gardening in pots and containers gives you the ability to insure great soil,
experiment with color, move your garden with the sun and raise your garden to a
comfortable working height. <br />
Maybe the best feature of container gardening in the Dallas area is the
ability to create a whole new garden every time. Here are some tips to enhance your
success! <br />
<h3>
1) Establish the Size of Your <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Container</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ifdplants.com/images/european.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ifdplants.com/images/european.jpg" height="164" width="320" /></a></div>
</st1:placetype></st1:place></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Make sure there is enough room in the container for the
plants and soil. Take into account the mature size of the plants and their
growing habits. Upright growers will need a wide base for balance. Sprawlers
will need a pot deep enough to drape over. </div>
As the plants grow, the root systems will fill the pot and the soil will dry
more quickly. It's OK to fill the diameter of the container with plants, but
make sure there is plenty of room for the roots to move downward into soil.<br />
<h3>
2) Provide Good Drainage</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Always have drainage holes or at the very least, a 1-2 inch
layer of gravel at the bottom of the container. If you are using a decorative
pot without drainage holes, consider planting in a plastic pot with holes that
is one size smaller than the decorative pot and using the plastic pot as an
insert.</div>
<h3>
3) Soil Requirements for <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Container</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Gardens</st1:placetype></st1:place></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Use a good potting soil mix, not garden soil. A mix with
peat, perlite or vermiculite will retain moisture longer and yet be well
draining. It will also be lighter and won't compact as the season goes on.
Using a chunky-style potting mix in container of 5 or more gallons will help
the soil mix remain loose even longer.</div>
<h3>
4) Choose Plants with Similar Cultural Requirements</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a garden bed, you can select which plants need water and
which to pass over. Not so with a container garden. Select plants that will be
happy with the same amounts of water, sun, heat and food. </div>
Avoid aggressive spreaders that will compete with neighboring plants and
consider dwarf varieties.<br />
<h3>
5) Favor Drought Tolerant Plants </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most container gardens are going to require daily watering
in hot weather. Even so, there will be times when you potted plants are going
to be baking in the sun. Give your container a fighting chance by favoring
plants that can handle the intensified heat and dry soil of a container garden.</div>
<h3>
6) Balance the Size of Your Plants and Your Container</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Container gardens look best when the plants are in balance
with the container. Try to make sure your tallest plants are not more than
twice the height of the container and that the fullness of the plant material
is not more than half the width again as wide.</div>
<h3>
7) Judging Sun Exposure</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Try not to site containers in full mid-day sun. You may have
chosen plants that say they require full sun, but container gardens heat up
much more quickly and intensely than in the ground gardens. Most plants will
welcome some relief from mid-day sun. </div>
On the other hand, when you must position a container in the shade, consider
putting it by a wall that can reflect some light back. The plants won't suffer
from the extreme heat, but they will benefit from indirect light.<br />
<h3>
8) Watering <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Container</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Gardens</st1:placetype></st1:place></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lack of water can quickly kill plants in a container garden.
Unlike plants grown in the ground, container plant roots can't move down deeply
in search of subsurface water. Check your containers daily for water needs.
Check twice daily in the heat of summer and especially with smaller containers.</div>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.littlehouseinthevalley.com/wp-content/themes/images/plants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.littlehouseinthevalley.com/wp-content/themes/images/plants.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>9) Fertilizing <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Container</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Gardens</st1:placetype></st1:place></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some potting mixes come with fertilizer already mixed in.
Some don't. Either way, container plant roots can't spread out looking for
additional food in the soil nearby, so you will need to replenish soil
nutrients regularly. </div>
Good choices are a time released fertilizer mixed in when planting or a
water soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks.<br />
<h3>
10) <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Keeping</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Container</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Gardens</st1:placetype></st1:place>
Fresh</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t be afraid to switch out plant material for the change
of season. No plant can go on blooming for ever. When one plant starts to fade,
look for another to take its place. This way you can start your container
</div>
garden in the spring and go until frost. With container gardens, sequence of
bloom is entirely within the gardener's control.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b> Jimmie,
I kept my Hibiscus tree in the garage over the winter. It did not freeze,
however it does not look very good. What is the best process for getting it
back into good shape for spring? <b>Rachael
P. in Prosper <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer: </b>Hi
Rachael, Hibiscus and other tropicals in general suffer when they are in cool,
dark conditions for an extended period of time. Your best bet would be to trim
and reshape it, and then repot it into fresh planting soil and feed it. It will
do best in spring full sunlight. By the summer however, you would probably want
to move it back in a location that gets mainly morning sun and some afternoon
shade.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b> Jimmie,
Is it too late to cut back or prune my Crape
Myrtle trees? If not how is the best way? <b>Katrina L. in Prosper.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:</b> Hi
Katrina, Now that the sap has come up through the trunk and the ornamental
trees have foliage it’s a little late. Pruning on Crape Myrtle trees should be
done when they are dormant (November thru late February). When pruning them be
sure to remove any old buds from the previous bloom and remove any limbs the
size of a number 2 pencil or smaller leaving just the main trunks and canopy of
the tree.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Until next
time…Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-4108900888909605582014-04-24T19:14:00.002-07:002014-04-24T19:14:24.828-07:00Want to Plant Roses? Here's how<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Roses
are not as fragile as they might appear and you could probably plant them in a
hole here in the Dallas area and have some success. But a little extra effort
when planting your roses will pay off with a much healthier plant and more prolific
blooms. Here are some tips and tricks of the trade for how to plant roses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Where to Plant Roses</span></h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.imperfectlybalanced.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/knock-out-shrubs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.imperfectlybalanced.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/knock-out-shrubs.jpg" height="206" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Choose a site with full sun to partial shade. Six
hours or more of sun is best. There are some roses that will be perfectly
happy in partial shade, but most roses bloom their best if they are in a
spot that gets sun all day. (Think soccer field!) The exception to this
rule of thumb would be when roses are grown in areas with extremely hot
growing seasons and limited water. In that case, you roses will appreciate
the relief offered by some afternoon shade. (Ring a bell???)</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Roses are not terribly picky about soil, but since
they are a heavy feeding plant, a rich loam type would be ideal. The soil
pH can be slightly acidic to neutral (5.5 to 7.0). It is usually advisable
to work in several inches of organic soil conditioners, especially if you
have poor soil or heavy clay. (Uhh- Hello Dallas area ring another bell??)</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Make sure the soil has good drainage. Roses need
regular deep watering, but their roots will rot if left to sit for days in
wet soil. (Raised beds are even better)</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">And finally, do not crowd your rose bushes. The more
air flow around the plants, the less likely they will be to get fungal
diseases, like black spot and powdery mildew, on their leaves. (Pay
attention here, all you low maintenance folks)</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">How to Plant Rose Bushes</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Dig out a hole that is slightly wider, but about as
deep as the roses root ball. This will generally be about 15–18 inches
deep x 18–24 inches wide.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mix a handful of bone meal or superphosphate into
the soil you removed from the hole and save it for refilling the hole,
once the rose is planted.. This will help the rose bush acclimate to its
new home. Don’t feed with anything else at planting time. You want the roots
to take hold, before the top start sending out a lot of new growth.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">If your rose came in a container, gently remove it
from the pot and loosen the roots a bit.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">If your rose is bare root, soak the roots for about
an hour, before planting.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Make a mound in the center of the hole, with the
soil and superphosphate mix. Make the mound high enough so that when you
place the rose bush on top of it, the knobby graft union is barely below
soil level. When the plant settles, the graft union should be fully
buried, about 1 inch underground.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Gardeners in our warm Dallas area climates may
prefer to leave the bud union above ground, since there is little chance
of frost damage. You can bury the graft no matter where you are gardening,
but there is a chance that sprouts will grow from the root stock,
resulting in a plant different from the one grafted on top.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Spread the roots down the sides of the mound. Begin
filling in with the soil and superphosphate, keeping the roots as spread
as possible. Water the soil when the hole is just about filled, to help
settle it in. Continue filling the hole and gently pat down.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Water deeply and apply 1–2 inches of mulch. (Shredded
cedar is the best) Water at least once per week. (an inch or so)</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Additional Tips:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">If there is still a chance of deep freezing temps,
you can loosely pile soil or mulch around the base of the rose canes, to
keep them from drying out. Remove this soil when the temperatures warm.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRl1Y6h25unURsCXiGQAVHuL4OzyyU9qcm3doE5LuY9OM3izjwn6q66YeEEyIH_aAcT-5-PJ8Sz3CMu0D0InixxFDEAAELHkBoqGDdsmJ8qBDFT4WWO7FZNZklm8tz-sPHIbROqpRp9mz/s400/pruning-shaping-roses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRl1Y6h25unURsCXiGQAVHuL4OzyyU9qcm3doE5LuY9OM3izjwn6q66YeEEyIH_aAcT-5-PJ8Sz3CMu0D0InixxFDEAAELHkBoqGDdsmJ8qBDFT4WWO7FZNZklm8tz-sPHIbROqpRp9mz/s400/pruning-shaping-roses.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Prune back the canes of larger rose bushes that are
being transplanted to 6–8 inches long</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Caring for Roses after Planting</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Continue to water every week, so that the plants
develop a deep roots system.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Feed roses when they start to leaf out in spring and
after each flush of bloom or about every six weeks throughout the growing
season.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Stop feeding about 6 weeks before your first frost
date, but continue watering.</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Question: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jimmie, I have several shrubs and perennials that
seem to have been hit pretty hard by our unforgiving winter. Some are showing a
tiny bit of new growth, shouldn't they be leafed out by now. Should I just go
ahead and replace them, I really don't want to wait an entire growing season or
two for them to recover. Thank you for your thoughts, I really enjoy your
columns! Jill L. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Answer: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hi Jill, It was indeed an unusually hard winter on
many trees, shrubs and landscaping in general. We are helping many clients all
over the Dallas Metroplex with similar issues but if you think about it we just
had another late freeze on the night of April 14th so many plants are still
waiting for the ground temperature to warm up before fully leafing out and
recovering. Try cutting back any obvious dead foliage and do a heavy feeding, I
think you might be surprised in another 30-45 days how tough your plants
actually are. Give them a fighting chance and they will be stronger for it next
winter, you can always replace some at that point if need be. Until next
time....Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-22420007812344826462014-04-24T19:05:00.002-07:002014-04-24T19:05:18.738-07:00KEYS TO A "PROSPERING" LAWN IN DFW AREA<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO ENSURE HEALTHY
TURF<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. <b>MOWING</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Timely mowing will have a big impact on health, weed control
and thickness of your lawn. The general rule of </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.neatandgreen.com/www2/images/green_lawn.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.neatandgreen.com/www2/images/green_lawn.png" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
thumb to go by is to remove not
more than one-third of the leaf blade at any one time. For some turf grass
varieties, this could actually mean mowing every 3-5 days during summer when
growth is most active.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. <b>WATERING</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Water as deeply and infrequently as possible during dry
spells, ideally 1 to 1-1/2 inches per week, depending on soil type. Watering
every 3 to 5 days, even in the hottest days of summer, should be sufficient if
you water deeply.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. <b>AERATING</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aerating is a mechanical method that pulls cores of soil
from the lawn to allow better penetration of air and water. The best time of
year to aerate is from mid-May through June, although July and August are also
acceptable months as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. <b>VERTICUTTING</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also known as vertical mowing, this process thins and
rejuvenates the lawn. When used on warm-season turf grasses, verticutting
functions as a different form of aeration. Verticutting is used with
cool-season turf grasses when overseeding in the fall. It thins the turf and
allows the seed to fall through the grass and make contact with the soil. Thus
improving your seed germination.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. <b>FERTILIZING</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of our lawns in North Texas are best fertilized using a
3-1-2-ratio fertilizer. An example would be 15-5-10 or 24-8-16. The first
number on the bag is Nitrogen. You can apply the fertilizer every 6 to 8 weeks.
To prolong the greening between applications, use a fertilizer product that has
its nitrogen in a slow release form. An organic method is to apply ½ inch of
well-decomposed compost evenly across the lawn twice a year.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6. <b>PRE-EMERGENT WEED CONTROL</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pre-emergents disrupt seeding development, so the timing of
your treatments is crucial. Spring applications of Balan, Betasan, Dimension, Team
or other labeled products should be applied around March 1<sup>st</sup> and
again around June 1<sup>st</sup> for summer annual grassy weeds. Your fall
treatments should be applied around September 10<sup>th</sup> using two
different pre-emergent products on the same day. The first is for grassy winter
annual weeds, using any of the previously named products. The second is to
apply Portrait or Gallery next to prevent winter annual broadleaf weeds.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7. <b>POST-EMERGENT WEED CONTROL</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Broadleaf weeds are controlled with an herbicide containing
2,4-d. Use a dedicated sprayer and apply at the labeled rate according to turf
type when temperatures are between 55 and 85 F. In Bermuda grass lawns only,
grassy weeds are controlled with DSMA or MSMA between May and September.
Nutgrass can be reduced over several seasons by applying Image or Manage
between May and mid-September.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8. <b>TREATING DISEASES</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For brown patch in St. Augustine, treat the area around
affected patches with Terraclor or Bayleton in late spring and especially early
fall. Leaf spot diseases in turf grasses are controlled with Daconil, Banner,
or Mancozeb. Avoid fertilizing when a disease is present in your yard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.greensmiths.com/images/grub.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.greensmiths.com/images/grub.gif" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9. <b>CONTROLLING INSECTS</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Generally found in hot, sunny areas of St. Augustine lawns,
chinch bugs have an irregular feeding pattern from June through August. Water
before and after treatment with a granular Talstar or synthetic pyrethroid
product. Grub worm activity usually starts in early August and continues until
early November. If discolored areas of turf pull up easily and 4 to 6 grub
worms are present in a 1-square-foot area, treat with a granular Mach II, Merit
or a pyrethroid product and water into soil. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Prior to making any pesticide application to your lawn,
please be responsible by correctly identifying the problem you have. Pesticide
labels are frequently amended, added or deleted for specific crops or pests.
Therefore carefully examine the actual label of the pesticide product before
use. Please read and follow all label directions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b>
Jimmie, We recently purchased a home in
a older neighborhood with established trees. Our grass underneath these
beautiful trees is very thin and appears to be slowly dying. Our neighbors we
have talked experienced the same things over the last few years. What is your
opinion on our options for those areas? Pamela L. in Dallas</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer: </b>Hi
Pamela, you are simply experiencing the light condition changing over time
underneath the canopy of your trees. A very common issue in more established
Dallas neighborhoods. More than likely you had a Bermuda lawn (which requires
full sun) that now had less than adequate light and is slowly fading away. The
good news is you have magnificent trees!! Your best options are to consider
either replacing the sod with a more shade loving turf such as St. Augustine or
a pricier Zoysia (if you prefer the Bermuda blade look) or consider a flower
bed that can take up that area and soften the under canopy of your trees and
trunks. Just be sure to consider what your lifestyle will accommodate both when
it comes to maintaining one or the other.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b>
Jimmie, first off I would like to thank you for taking the time out of your
busy schedule to write this column. It has been very informative and helpful to
me and I really look forward to it. My problem is that I have a Japanese Maple
tree that I mistakenly planted last year in full sun. Well, it just fried in
the summer! Late summer I moved it to a side yard where we can now see it out
our window. It gets the midday sun now. Do you think it will be okay there?
Jennifer P. in Frisco.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer: </b>Hi Jennifer, Sounds like you Japanese Maple
has been put through allot of extremes since you have owned it. It will be
happier there however it really should be allowed to acclimate a year or two
before passing judgment on it. Also your timing on the transplant could have
been better. That really should be done in a dormant time when it’s bare and
not as much stress through the acclimation process. It eventually should be in
a spot where its gets little to no direct sunlight at all. Until next
time…Happy Gardening!!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-42458727186073417952014-03-31T14:44:00.000-07:002014-03-31T14:44:08.816-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">NOW THAT SPRING IS HERE, IT’S TIME FOR:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h1>
Planting</h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<a href="http://www.tree-land.com/images/Crape_Myrtle_Centennail_Spirit_30_Gallon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tree-land.com/images/Crape_Myrtle_Centennail_Spirit_30_Gallon.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a>
<li class="MsoNormal">New
lawns can be started this month. Sod can be planted at anytime, but wait
until soil has warmed up enough to plant Bermuda seed.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Warm
season vegetables including beans, tomatoes, corn, squash, cucumbers,
melons and peppers 2 weeks after last freeze. Summer vegetables, including
okra, eggplant, southern peas 4 weeks after last freeze.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Warm
season annuals including begonias, impatiens, zinnias, marigolds, cosmos,
celosia, 2 weeks after last freeze. Tropical annual color plants,
including hibiscus, pentas, fire bush, copper plant, purslane, moss rose,
purple fountain grass, caladiums, lantanas, 4 weeks after last freeze.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Groundcovers
into well prepared soil to take advantage of the burst of new spring growth.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Herbs
into flowerbeds, vegetable gardens and patio containers. Many herbs are
attractive as well as edible.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Trees
and shrubs are available in profusion this month. Transport them home
carefully, protecting them from highway winds, the plant them immediately.
Hand water tem regularly during first summer.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h1>
Pruning </h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Climbing
roses, also antique roses that only bloom in spring, following flowering
to remove weak growth and reshape plants.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Spring
flowering shrubs and vines to reshape immediately after they finish
blooming.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Low
hanging limbs from shade trees to allow sunlight to reach grass beneath
canopy.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Tropicals,
such as hibiscus, that have grown lanky over a winter indoors can be
trimmed back now.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h1>
Fertilize</h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">All
lawn grasses should be fed this month. Use high quality nitrogen or
all-nitrogen plant food.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Container
gardens. Use complete-and-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer such as
20-20-20 with trace elements. Apply diluted solution with each watering.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Roses
monthly with specialty rose food.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Use
iron additive with sulfur soil acidifier to correct iron chlorosis (yellow
leaves with dark green veins) Keep iron products off masonry, painted
surfaces that could be stained.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h1>
<o:p> </o:p></h1>
<h1>
On the Lookout<span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/insectid/files/2014/03/Cankerworm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/insectid/files/2014/03/Cankerworm.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="314" /></a></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Cankerworms
strip new leaves from trees. Larvae will hang by very thin threads from
trees. <i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> biological worm spray is best
control.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Cabbage
loopers with same B. T. spray or dust.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Snails,
slugs, pill bugs devour tender new stem, leaf growth, apply dust or
specialty bait.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Leaf
rollers tie leaves of cannas, sweetgums, redbuds, pyracanthas, and others
together. Apply systemic insecticide for ongoing protection before
problems become serious.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Thrips
cause roses and other double flowers to fail to open, turn brown around
petals edges. Systemic insecticide to control.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Aphids
on brand new growth of daylilies, tomatoes, roses and a host of other
plants. General-purpose insecticide will eliminate.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Fire
ants. Treat with wide area baits and individual mound treatments or hire
pest control professional who can apply new yearlong product.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Fleas.
Treat with broad-spectrum landscape insecticide. Apply preventive from vet
to pet’s neck.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Roses
for black spot and mildew. Use labeled fungicide weekly into the summer.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Powdery
mildew on new growth of crape myrtles, zinnias, euonymus. Treat with
approved fungicide or spray with soapy water.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Maroon
colored freckles on leaved of red tip photinias, Indian hawthorns suggest
fungal leaf spot. Treat with approved fungicide, but be prepared to
replace plants. This disease is epidemic.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Broadleaf
weed killer to eliminate existing clover, dandelions, dichondra, wild
violets, and poison ivy.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Color in your landscape tip:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Warm colors (yellow, orange, hot pink, bright red, white)
advance visually in the garden, while cool colors (green, blue, purple) recede.
Use warm colors where color will be seen from a distance. Use cool colors to
make a small landscape appear larger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie, Is it normal for this time of year to have pillbugs
around my entry to my house. I am a fairly new homeowner and this is the first
time I have seen them?? Thank you for your help. Julie L. in Prosper.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer: </b>Hi
Julie, Pill bugs can generally show about just about anywhere they feel like
it. Really, the only time you should be concerned about them is when they start
feeding on your young tender stems and leaves in the area you’re seeing them.
Most plants will still outgrow them, but if you have the need to control them,
slug and snail baits available at most nursery’s does a good job. Sevin dust
works also.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question: </b>Jimmie,
my favorite tree has become the Japanese Maple. While I don't know much about
them I just love the texture and color of them, especially the weeping kind.
Can this tree be installed anywhere on my property with good soil preparation?
I will probably be calling your company to help us! Melissa K. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer: </b> Hi Melissa, one of my favorite trees as well.
The Japanese Maple is actually native to China but the main growers in the USA
are around the Washington, Oregon areas that supply most of the country. They
love shade and when designed or installed in the incorrect location in your
landscaping can really struggle. A dapple of morning sun and afternoon shade we
do the trick. Probably East or North side of your house preferably under the
canopy of a large anchor existing tree if you have one would be even better. Be
glad to help you out if you need it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Until next time, happy gardening………..!!!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-91993101052608589732014-03-13T07:06:00.004-07:002014-03-13T07:06:37.414-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
Green Mindset can add value, beauty and save you $$$<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.greenearth-landscapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Residential-Landscaping-Florida-640x360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.greenearth-landscapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Residential-Landscaping-Florida-640x360.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When thinking of upcoming St. Patrick's Day what
color comes to mind? Obviously green right? For most of us that particular date
is also when we are beginning to see the early signs that spring has officially
arrived! The time of year to reclaim our gardens and landscapes from the winter
shades of browns and grays.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">St. Patrick's day can be the ideal time for us all
to be thinking "Green"! For all those who enjoy being outdoors
whether you are a gardener, hiker, biker or pro landscaper my me just the site
of that fresh color green can be invigorating to senses and a harbinger of
sunnier days ahead!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Plan on investing some time now on "green"
improvements to your landscaping and lawn and as a homeowner you will reap a
host of benefits both short and long term. There are so many ways that
"green" can improve the environment and enhance lives. Here are just
a few..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green can greatly improve allergy reduction, a
thick, lush dense turf can crowd out all those weeds therefore reducing pollen
in our air. A mighty big relief to allergy sufferers out there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.fairmonttreefarm.com/Images/greenashshade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.fairmonttreefarm.com/Images/greenashshade.jpg" height="200" width="188" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green can help create cleaner water, when your turf
is thick and healthy it acts like a filter, cleaning water as it absorbed into
the soil and plants root zone area reducing the likelihood of groundwater
pollution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Did you know that a healthy patch of lawn as small
as just 50 sq. feet can produce enough oxygen for a family of four??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Did you know that "green" can help reduce
our energy costs? The proper placement and maintenance for trees for shade and
shelter can reduce your attic temperatures up to 40 degrees in the summer and
help reduce heat loss in the winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Did you "green " is one of the best ways
to add to your property value? Studies continually show that investment in
landscaping improvements can be more than recovered when a property is sold or
even add more profit when attention is
paid to plant size, placement and a well thought out design?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So you may want to raise your glass to the old St.
Patrick, it's not just wearing the green it's THINKING AND ACTING on the
"green" that can make a real difference for you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Question:
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jimmie,
I installed a thick layer of mulch over my perennials late fall to protect the
roots from winter. Will they push up through this mulch this spring? Thank you
for your time! Vicky K. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b>Answer: </b> Hi Vicky, <span lang="EN">While perennials sometimes will successfully break through a thick layer of
mulch, other times damage will result. Don't take a chance with the health of
your perennial flowers! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN">In late winter or early spring
(depending on the weather) you should begin checking to see whether the ground
is thawing or not. If the ground is thawing, leaving landscaping mulch on top
of your perennial flowers can smother them -- so it is time to remove the
mulch, to let your perennials breathe. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN">Once the perennial flowers have
pushed up (so that you know where they are) and have achieved a bit of height,
then you can re-apply mulch around them to suppress weeds. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span lang="EN">Question: </span></b><span lang="EN">Jimmie, Is
there a general rule of thumb for when to prune flowering shrubs? I know your
super busy so I appreciate your time! Susan P. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN">Answer:</span></b><span lang="EN"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Hi Susan</span><span lang="EN">, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To answer the question of when to prune
flowering shrubs, we must first determine the reason behind the pruning. Do you
wish to rejuvenate overgrown, neglected bushes through pruning? Or is this to
be merely a routine pruning to maintain the flowering shrubs within certain
dimensions? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 9pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We sometimes
wish to prune flowering shrubs in order to shape them or keep them within
certain bounds. But we worry that we'll miss out on this year's blossoms if we
prune at the incorrect time. Here's the general rule of thumb to know when to
prune a particular plant. <br />
<br />
If you are undertaking a routine pruning, observe the shrubs' blooming habits.
For shrubs that bloom in summer or fall on the current year's growth, such as
beautyberry , prune in late winter or early spring. For shrubs that bloom in
spring on last year's growth like a forsythia, prune after their blooms begin
to die. <br />
<br />
If you are pruning flowering shrubs to rejuvenate them, the best time to prune
is late winter or early spring. True, pruning early-flowering shrubs at this
time will reduce or eliminate blossoming in spring that year, but the trade-off
is in gaining healthier, more vigorous flowering shrubs for the long run. Until
next time ...Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 9pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jimmie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-26531425972128369582014-03-05T11:11:00.003-08:002014-03-05T11:11:38.683-08:00<h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Prepare now for a lush, green, and
fragrant spring</h2>
If you were ever in the Boy Scouts, or you have a son who is, then you’ll
know the famous motto of that organization: “Be prepared.” <br />
It’s a lesson I’ve sometimes had to learn the hard way. Perhaps, like me,
you’ve waited until the last minute to make reservations at a restaurant or a
hotel, only to find you’ve left it too late and you’re disappointed. <br />
So today I am going to encourage you to take a leaf out of the Scouting
Manual and... Be prepared! <br />
With the Holidays behind us and spring still a few weeks away, this is the
perfect time to prepare for the planting season ahead. Yes, it is tempting to
wait until spring is almost upon us. But take some time now to prepare and you
won’t be disappointed later. The good news is that much of this preparation can
be done while you relax in your favorite armchair with a cup of cocoa (or
something stronger, insert your favorite beverage here) close at hand! <br />
<b>Plan your garden<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<a href="http://www.suburbanhomesteading.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/garden-planning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="1" border="0" src="http://www.suburbanhomesteading.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/garden-planning.jpg" height="274" title="1" width="320" /></a>Ready for a new look? Get a few sheets of 1/4 inch grid paper and roughly
draw the shape of your <br />
landscape. Start by sketching in items that can’t be
moved, such as large trees, walls, and your garage and so on. Now sketch in
areas where you might add new beds or change the shape or location of existing
beds. Some new specimen trees? An evergreen privacy hedge? A water feature?
That shade arbor or outdoor kitchen you have been dreaming of? Add them in. Use a pencil, so you can erase
and start over where necessary. Ok maybe even an extra large eraser!<br />
And remember: there’s no rule that says everything has to be planted in
straight lines. An area of lawn curving between perennial beds and flowering
trees can be a delightful change from a solid slab of grass. There are some
helpful tips on landscape layout and planning on my company website at <a href="http://www.absolutelybushed.com/">www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a>
<br />
<b>Mouse through the Web<o:p></o:p></b><br />
Get some inspiration online. Use <a href="http://www.yahoo.com/">Yahoo</a> or
<a href="http://www.google.com/">Google</a> to find information and pictures of
plants you’ve heard about and find out if they’d fit in with your new plans.
You can find enormous amounts of planting tips and independent advice, and you
can check to see if a particular plant will thrive in your hardiness zone. And
then you can place plant orders via the Internet without ever leaving home.
Sometimes however, it can risky to order online verses a local nursery or
grower. Your landscape professional can also help you locate unusual but hearty
plants. Remember our planting zone here is 7 and 8 so anything rated outside of
those zones is generally considered high risk of not surviving here.<br />
<b>Keep a record<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
If you get those free calendars in the mail, take one of them and start writing
down information that you’ll need every year, to save having to figure it out
year after year. For example, it would be a good idea to note the projected
dates for the first and last frosts, how much fertilizer you need each year for
your lawn, and the date you spread it, and so on. You can also note the number
of plants you buy for your container gardens, to avoid over- or under-buying
next year. Don't try to over think it, lots to be said for simple sometimes!<br />
<b>Try something new<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Tired of the same old, same old? Prepare now for something new and different.
Because the unusual plants are often in short supply, you definitely want to
prepare now by researching and ordering your “out of the ordinary” plants. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Find fallen branches<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
At this time of year, the weather can often bring down anything from small
twigs to large branches. When they’re left there all winter, they can
traumatize your lawn, and may cause a tripping hazard to children or pets
playing in the yard, particularly if hidden by snow or frost. Your lawn will
benefit in the spring from your preparedness now, and you might end up with
some kindling for your fireplace, too. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://picklemedia1.scrippsnetworks.com/pickle_media1/media/HGTV/110425/Photo_Video_66152624431830044932826_medium.jpg?0" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2" border="0" src="http://picklemedia1.scrippsnetworks.com/pickle_media1/media/HGTV/110425/Photo_Video_66152624431830044932826_medium.jpg?0" height="240" title="2" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Think green!<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<br />
Best of all, prepare mentally by imagining how lush, fragrant and beautiful
your landscape will be, mere weeks from today! Good luck to you!!<br />
<br />
<b>Question:</b> Jimmie, I recently
bought a “Bloodgood” Japanese Maple
tree. I purchased the tree early last spring and it seemed to be doing fine
until the heat of the summer hit. It then spent all summer basically burning up
and all the leaves being scorched? What did I do wrong? Janet P. in Prosper.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<b>Answer: </b> Hi Janet, Sounds to me like you have the
installed your new tree in the wrong location. Typically, all Japanese Maples
are considered to be strictly shade ornamental trees under the canopy of an
older established tree. The exception would be on the east side of your house
where you’re getting morning sunlight exposure only. Any location on your
property where it’s getting full sun and you’re setting yourself up for some
much burnt foliage!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Until next time…Happy Gardening!!chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-20314793287605437432014-02-19T19:25:00.001-08:002014-02-21T20:37:02.346-08:00Houseplants not even YOU can KILL...!!!<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Houseplants
not even <u>YOU</u> can KILL...!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Okay, so I already know what you're
thinking. Yea right Jimmie you don't know me, I can kill anything!! Believe me,
being in my business I have heard it all from clients! However I have a list of
six or seven really hearty houseplants that you would have to try really hard
to kill. Not that you wouldn't be successful with enough dedicated neglect but
I have seen people leave for the summer and come back to these plants basically
saying " Is that all you got?" Let's take a look at some of these
tougher than nails houseplants that will keep your green thumb confident! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.guide-to-houseplants.com/images/pothos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.guide-to-houseplants.com/images/pothos.jpg" height="160" width="200" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Golden pothos
vine (<i>Epipremnum pinnatum 'aureum'</i>)</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There's a
reason this vine is one of the most popular hanging plants around. In its
native habitat, golden pothos grows into a tree-swallowing monster with huge
yellow and green leaves. As a houseplant, the plant will grow aggressively from
pots or trailing baskets with minimal care. They will easily root in a simple
glass of water. With better care, large, mottled, mature leaves may actually develop
for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.guide-to-houseplants.com/images/spider-plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.guide-to-houseplants.com/images/spider-plant.jpg" height="180" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spider plant (<i>Chlorophytum</i>)</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A well-grown
spider plant is a magnificent thing. The plant grows easily in baskets or atop
columns, with arching leaves. The variegated variety is by far the most common.
Over time, a mature plant will send out plantlets or offsets on long stems that
form an impressive hanging display. These plantlets can be easily potted up to
create new specimens. Spider plants are not picky about water, light,
temperature or that huge spider web that's been growing near it for the last
three months you just haven't got around to yet.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://plantcare.us/assets/images/laurentii-snake-plant-small-ornamental-plant-sansevieria-laurenti-plant-care-tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://plantcare.us/assets/images/laurentii-snake-plant-small-ornamental-plant-sansevieria-laurenti-plant-care-tips.jpg" height="200" width="138" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Snake plant and
mother-in-law's tongue (<i>Sansevieria trifasciata</i> and <i>S. trifasciata
laurentii</i>)</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Actually in the
same family that includes dracaena and liriope, there are many varieties of
sansevieria that are exceptionally tough. They like plenty of light, but they
can handle less if necessary and they aren't too particular about
watering—providing there isn't too much. When repotting is necessary, the main
clump can be easily divided. These plants are striking additions to a
collection. The snake plant features green on green bands on sword-like leaves,
while the mother-in-law's tongue has yellow variegated type leaves. And I mean
come on, with a name like "Mother-In-Laws Tongue"? What did you
really expect?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://demostore.modularmerchant.com/images/plants/DracaenaFragrans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://demostore.modularmerchant.com/images/plants/DracaenaFragrans.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dracaena
species</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are many
varieties of dracaena suitable for home growth. The D. Draco and D. Marginata
are wonderfully easy plants that tolerate a wide variety of conditions. These
plants feature arching leaves from a woody stem. Dracaena leaves are usually
green, yellow and green, or even tri-colored. Also a member of the agave
family, they like to be regularly watered in the summer and almost left dry
throughout the winter. D. Fragrans is often used to make the popular Ti plants,
or false palms as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Succulents</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and <b>Cacti</b>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.zplantsinc.com/images/3inCACTUS-SUCCULENTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.zplantsinc.com/images/3inCACTUS-SUCCULENTS.jpg" height="128" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are
dozens of varieties of succulents and desert cacti flooding into garden centers
and grocery stores. In general, succulents are desert plants with thick, fleshy
leaves. Some of them have spines, and some none. Agave is an example of a
popular succulent, along with aloe and popular echeveria rosettes. Cacti
generally have spines and interesting leaf structures, including barrels,
paddles and columns. As a class, succulents and cacti are slow growing and will
withstand tremendous abuse. They do best with bright light, well-drained pots
and little water. In the right placement, these are plants that truly thrive on
neglect!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4z39R0QTmkgsQVjmfNq-bHW5pgYavZc7J1-snMXHTtXqjrfdKzR3FYpbDY9SYmALtrUpan-Di-O5vkgBP_wi5B0YFCKxpQNM3IlXdctZOEujM2uIEcVb-_M-YUI3UbmTWl7xoS7MT8Vv3/s1600/bromeliad+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4z39R0QTmkgsQVjmfNq-bHW5pgYavZc7J1-snMXHTtXqjrfdKzR3FYpbDY9SYmALtrUpan-Di-O5vkgBP_wi5B0YFCKxpQNM3IlXdctZOEujM2uIEcVb-_M-YUI3UbmTWl7xoS7MT8Vv3/s1600/bromeliad+004.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bromeliads</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These plants
have basically gained an unfair reputation, probably because of the difficulty
required to coax a bloom from a bromeliad. It's true that making these jungle
plants bloom in the house can be tricky task. They require copious warmth and
water, along with high humidity and filtered light, to produce their showy
flower spikes. However, many species of bromeliads have beautiful leaves that
are attractive by themselves. Bromeliads plants are usually watered by filling
the central cup. They require little fertilizer, and when pups appear around
the base of the plant, these can be separated and potted up to grow your
collection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Lucky_bamboo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Lucky_bamboo.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lucky bamboo (<i>Dracaena
sanderiana</i>)</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Technically a
dracaena species, lucky bamboo is the perennial office plant. Untold pots of
these thrive in awful conditions, sporadically watered with bad lighting and
poor air quality. Nevertheless, lucky bamboo lives on. These make wonderful
gift plants, and many people believe they bring good luck and enhance the chi,
or energy, of their surroundings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">These houseplants are some of the best to start
your collection. They are all easy to grow and can generally withstand erratic
watering, uneven or bad light, and fluctuating temperatures. They'll thrive in
dorm rooms, offices and sometimes over in that dismal corner you have where nothing
else seems to grow. Until next time...Happy Gardening <a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Visit our new website</a></span>chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-9049327922871413702014-02-07T07:26:00.000-08:002014-02-19T19:07:04.985-08:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Valentine's
Day? Let's Talk Roses!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With Valentine's Day around the corner it seems like
this time of year we always get allot of interest from clients about Roses. Questions
like, "I have always loved Roses, how hard are they to grow?" or
"Do I have to do any special to have nice Roses" and "Will Roses
grow on my patio?". With those types of calls and e-mails already starting
to come in this year I decided to go ahead provide you some information to
address Planting Roses!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When you buy a
rose plant it very possibly can have short, leafless canes and, sometimes even,
bare roots. Seeing a plant like this can leave you wondering how do you plant
roses. Roses are not nearly a</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://mytexasgarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/red-double-knock-out-rose-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="ab1" border="0" src="http://mytexasgarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/red-double-knock-out-rose-2.jpg" height="282" title="ab1" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">s fragile as you might think and you could
probably just plant it in a hole and have some success. But some extra effort
when planting roses will pay off with healthier plants and more blooms. Here
are a few tips for how to plant roses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Where to Plant Roses<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Choose a site with full sun to partial shade. Six hours
or more of sun is preferred. There are some roses that will be perfectly happy
in partial shade, but most roses bloom their best if they are in a spot that
gets sun all day. The exception to this rule of thumb would be when roses are
grown in areas with extremely hot growing seasons and limited water. In that
case, you roses will appreciate the relief offered by some afternoon shade.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Roses are not
terribly sensitive regarding soil, but since they are heavy feeders, a rich
loam or soil mix would be ideal. The soil pH can be slightly acidic to neutral
(5.5 to 7.0). It is usually advisable to work in several inches of organic
matter, especially if you have poor soil or heavy clay, which chances are you
do! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make sure the
soil has good drainage. Roses need regular deep watering, but their roots will
rot if left to sit for days in wet soil. As will most plants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And finally, do
not crowd your rose bushes. The more air flow around the plants, the less
likely they will be to get fungal diseases, like black spot and powdery mildew,
on their leaves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How to Plant Roses<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dig out a hole
that is slightly wider, but about as deep as the roses root ball. This will
generally be about 15–18 inches deep x 18–24 inches wide or so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mix a handful
of bone meal or superphosphate into the soil you removed from the hole and save
it for refilling the hole, once the rose is planted.. This will help the rose
bush acclimate to its new soil. Don’t feed with anything else at planting time.
You want the roots to take hold, before the top starts sending out a lot of new
growth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If your rose came in a container, gently remove it from
the pot and loosen the roots a bit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If your rose is bare root, soak the roots for a few hours,
before planting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make a mound in the center of the hole, with the soil and
superphosphate mix. Make the mound high enough so that when you place the rose
bush on top of it, the knobby graft union is barely below soil level. When the
plant settles, the graft union should be fully buried, about 1-2 inches underground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gardeners in warm climates may prefer to leave the bud
union above ground, since there is little chance of frost damage. You can bury
the graft no matter where you are gardening, but there is a chance that sprouts
will from the root stock, resulting in a plant different from the one grafted
on top.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spread the roots down the sides of the mound. Begin
filling in with the soil and superphosphate, keeping the roots as spread as
possible. Water the soil when the hole is just about filled, to help settle it
in. Continue filling the hole and gently pat down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Water deeply and apply 1–2 inches of mulch. Water at
least once per week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">More Tips:</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If there is
still a chance of freezing temps, you can loosely pile soil or mulch around the
base of the rose canes, to keep them from drying out. Remove this soil when the
temperatures warm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mcdonaldgardencenter.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/blog_slideshow_full/ko1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="al1" border="0" src="http://www.mcdonaldgardencenter.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/blog_slideshow_full/ko1.jpg" height="188" title="al1" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Prune back the
canes of larger rose bushes that are being transplanted to about 6–8 inches
long <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Caring for Roses after Installing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Continue to
water every week, so that the plants develop a deep roots system.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Feed roses when
they start to leaf out in spring and after each flush of bloom or about every
six weeks throughout the growing season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stop feeding
about 6 weeks before your first frost date, but continue watering.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Until next time Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jimmie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-87800553473910586822014-01-22T06:39:00.001-08:002014-01-22T16:23:12.869-08:00Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Advises to Prepare For Spring<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">Plan now for Spring </span></b></div>
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The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting
chillier, and the outdoors is looking a little less inviting than it did just a
few short weeks ago. In fact, there doesn't seem to be much of an incentive to
be out there surveying your landscape right about now. </div>
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There might be a temptation to just forget about your piece
of planet Earth and all the trees and shrubs that are living on it. But this
can be a very satisfying time to enjoy your yard and garden from the comfort of
your armchair in front of your crackling log fire, or sitting at the kitchen table
with a mug of something warm! </div>
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<a href="http://lunar.thegamez.net/gardenidea/easy-garden-ideas/simple-garden-design-ideas-ahlgren-landscaping-new-britain-ct-1000x667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lunar.thegamez.net/gardenidea/easy-garden-ideas/simple-garden-design-ideas-ahlgren-landscaping-new-britain-ct-1000x667.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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As winter sets in, this is the perfect time to be planning
for the spring. Sit back and let your imagination have free rein. Think of everything
you'd like to see flourishing out there in a few months time... The sprightly
young tree saplings, the bright green leaves on your new shrubs, the bees
humming around the latest additions to your landscape. </div>
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But at this stage it's no more than a pleasant dream. It
becomes a "plan" when you write it down and begin to take action on
those thoughts.</div>
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Find a pencil and some paper... preferably grid paper... and
roughly sketch out the shape of your land, or at least the part you're thinking
of working on. Add in the shape of any structures (your house, a barn, a shed)
that are part of the landscape. Are there any large trees out there? Sketch a
circle to approximate each tree's canopy and its location. At this stage, your
layout doesn't have to be strictly accurate; you can refine it later. Then draw
a little arrow pointing to the north. </div>
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<br /></div>
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One important issue is to determine those areas of your land
that are exposed to long periods of sunlight and those that are likely to be in
shade for large parts of the day. Of course, the amount of sun and shade will
vary with the seasons, but this moment of forethought will pay off when you get
to planting later! You might want to use your pencil to (literally) shade in
areas on your plan that will be largely shaded from sunlight, either by
buildings or by large trees. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Now comes the part that's really fun! </div>
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If you're like me and like most enthusiasts of landscaping
and garden design, you probably receive dozens of mail order catalogs and you
have numerous online nurseries "bookmarked" or in your
"favorites" on your computer. Sit back with your catalogs and start
circling everything you think you might like to see out there next year. Go
wild! Dog-ear the catalog pages. Mark pages with little sticky notes. Don't try
to be cautious at this stage. </div>
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The same is true when you browse the offerings of online
nurseries. In fact it's even easier online. Just click "Add to Cart"
whenever you see something that appeals to you. Remember that you haven't
actually committed yourself to buying anything when you add an item to your
cart; as in the supermarket you can simply put it back on the shelf (by
clicking remove) when you finally get around to reviewing all the goodies
you've selected. <br />
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Now it's time to "weed out" your selections. One
logical way to do this is to say to yourself, "If I could only have ONE,
it would be....." So that one is a keeper. Then do the same thing again,
picking out the next must-have. You can work in reverse, too, eliminating the
one item you could most easily live without. Before long, you'll have a
shorter, more manageable list to work with. </div>
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A word of advice: Except for a "special" purchase,
such as a particular ornamental tree, it is not a good idea to purchase a large
number of varieties with a small number of actual plants within each variety.
Rather, I suggest you pick a smaller number of varieties, say <st1:time hour="18" minute="55" w:st="on">five to seven</st1:time>, and increase the
actual number of plants in each variety. This gives a more cohesive and
satisfying appearance to your plantings. You might select ten <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ebepp.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/simple-garden-designs-183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ebepp.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/simple-garden-designs-183.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
to twenty plants
in each variety; or perhaps a hundred or more if your landscape is more
generously sized. </div>
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Plan, too, for the different seasons. Select some plants
that will be at their best early in the year and others that will be in full
bloom later on. </div>
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Dreaming, and turning dreams into plans, and then plans into
reality can be a thoroughly satisfying endeavor for anyone who loves to Garden!
</div>
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<b>Question:</b> Jimmie,
Do you have any advice for growing the Oregon grape or Leatherleaf Mahonia? Our
garden guide says that it is a great plant and easy to grow, but the ones we
have just seem to shrink, and the leaves get all discolored. Our creeping
Mahonia does somewhat better, but it still gets the muddy-looking leaves. This
year it is finally getting flowers, so maybe we have a breakthrough. It will be
great if it ever gets those purple berries. Thank you for your assistance, and
I enjoy your articles.</div>
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Brenda P. in Prosper </div>
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<b>Answer: </b>Hi
Brenda, Yes I am familiar with both varieties. The Oregon Grape one is a dwarf
variety used as a second-tier type planting while the Leatherleaf one is much
taller and generally used as a backdrop to something smaller in height. Both
are aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance, and pretty hearty. They like shade
to partial shade light conditions. They are usually easy to grow. However they
do need some sun and should get good supplemental water. Aside from that you
may want to fertilize with a <st1:date day="12" ls="trans" month="6" w:st="on" year="2012">6-12-12</st1:date> fertilize. High nitrogen content but will help
build the root system. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Until next
time…Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Send your
landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at <u>jimmie@absolutelybushed.com</u>
or in care of the Prosper Press at <u>rhays@prosperpressnews.com</u> Jimmie is the owner of <b>Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company</b>. He is a resident in Prosper.
His landscaping and gardening column runs every other week in the Prosper
Press.<o:p></o:p></div>
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chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-67141031643080610712014-01-04T14:34:00.002-08:002014-01-04T14:34:44.640-08:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Have
any Garden Resolutions?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Here
are a few to consider<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden
Resolution #1: Experiment With Form and Texture<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a-YiZBxiyWM/TD7-7w7DCVI/AAAAAAAAAKo/VLDoXN7ixek/s1600/Euonymus+shrub+variegated+067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_a-YiZBxiyWM/TD7-7w7DCVI/AAAAAAAAAKo/VLDoXN7ixek/s320/Euonymus+shrub+variegated+067.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Flowers can
spruce up a landscape, but sometimes we become way too dependent on annual
color, ignoring the value that other plant features can bring to a yard, especially
when it's "off season" for flowers. Nor does the answer lie solely in
the use of fall foliage trees or smaller foliage shrubs. A large clump of ornamental
grass can add great interest to a winter landscape, as can trees and shrubs
with interesting branching patterns, such as Coral Bark Japanese Maple tree. That
bright red bark is quite eye catching! With this observation, we enter the
world of plant form and texture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden
Resolution #2: Appreciate Your Plants<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">After going
through a long winter, plant lovers are often guilty of going crazy at the
nursery in the spring. We buy too many different kinds of trees, shrubs and
perennials all at once — one of this, one of that…. This, despite the fact that
one of the most important principles to remember when designing your own
landscape is that masses of the same plant can have a much bigger visual impact
in planting beds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Admittedly,
sometimes it’s more satisfying to walk into the nursery and buy a smorgasbord
of individual plants. But that’s just for one day. How to derive the most
satisfaction from your plants over the long term is an issue of much greater
importance, don’t you think? There’s something to be said for turning our
attention to more fully appreciating each and every plant we end up growing in
our gardens each season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden
Resolution #3: Look for the Details<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are so
many small details worth admiring! I find I derive maximum satisfaction from my
garden when I slow down long enough to admire what’s already there, properly,
before adding too much more before some good thought. To that end, I recommend
carrying around a magnifying glass when in the garden, just kidding! But do pay
attention to smaller plants that may have a bigger impact than you give them
credit for. Or perhaps your pretty satisfied and just want to add a few small
things? Those small changes can make a world of difference!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden
Resolution #4: Raise Your Gardening to a New Level<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Perhaps a bad
back precludes your stooping over with a magnifying glass to appreciate the
details of plants on the ground, consider growing your plants in raised beds,
which effectively bring the plants up to your level. Of course, it's also
easier to maintain plants in
raised beds. Raised beds also tend to have much better drainage for your plants
as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden
Resolution #5: Keep a Garden Journal<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But don’t stop
there! At the next level of commitment, the plant appreciator keeps a garden
journal. Keeping a garden journal will allow you to record the changes in your
plants, as they progress through the seasons — and from year to year, if you
have the discipline to stick with it that long! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And if you’re
even a bit more committed to "making a connection" with your plants
and thereby appreciating them to the fullest, snap photos of them at different
junctures along the way. A close-up lens comes in handy for this but isn’t
absolutely necessary. The photos can be incorporated in your garden journal. I
find the easiest way to keep such a journal can be on your computer. For instance,
to chart the progress of Magnolia tree, create a “Magnolia Tree” folder. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden Resolution
#6 -- Turn Plants Into Vacation Memories<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here's another
great way to make a connection with a particular plant: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Going on
vacation? When making a trip by car, take note (pictures can be even better if
possible) of any plant that really catches your eye, as you observe what the locals
are growing in their landscapes. Then try to find a nursery in that same area,
where you can make inquiries concerning the availability and growing
requirements of that plant. Of course (depending on where you're vacationing),
you may quickly find out that it won't grow in your own planting zone. But
assuming the plant in question is growable back home, consider buying it, as a
souvenir of your trip. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are, to
be sure, drawbacks in buying plants on vacation. For example: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You have
to care for them (get them out of a hot car and into your hotel room as
quickly as possible, and water them) <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">They take
up room in a car that is probably already crammed full with luggage and
impatient children! <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But on the plus
side, thereafter you'll always associate the plant with the vacation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garden Resolution #7 -- Don't Be a Garden Snob<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Many of us
"serious" gardeners could profit from lightening up considerably in
our approach to landscaping. Just because plant are "dirt common,"
such as the popular<b> </b>annual<b> </b>flowers, that doesn't necessarily mean
o</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.almanac.com/sites/new.almanac.com/files/pansies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.almanac.com/sites/new.almanac.com/files/pansies.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ur high and mighty gardens are too good to be "soiled" by such
riffraff. Looked at objectively, annuals can be viewed as a reservoir of color
that you can "dip into" as filler during periods when your perennials
have run into a "blooming drought." And always remember what one
person doesn't really care for the next person would drive across the country
to get one! Until next time... Happy Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-67561132151850266362013-12-20T11:24:00.002-08:002013-12-20T11:24:54.137-08:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt;">Time to take a
look back !!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By the time many of you
are reading this you may of just unwrapped a nice surprise from Santa! Or
perhaps finishing up that Holiday meal or enjoying your favorite football team
on TV. Ah yes, the holidays have finally arrived ! Even though we tend to get
into a "take a break" mode it can be a really good time to look back
at the past year evaluate what we did well and things perhaps we would like to
tweak a bit and do a better job or improve upon. It's a good time of evaluation
and planning for the upcoming year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.rialnodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/home-landscape-design-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="ab1" border="0" height="240" src="http://www.rialnodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/home-landscape-design-12.jpg" title="ab1" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This can also be a
great time of year to give the same type of evaluation to your landscaping.
What worked out well? What didn't? </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Keep
in mind that reviewing this year's gardening triumphs and defeats is the best
guarantee of success when designing next year's garden. Garden design requires
a knowledge of plants and you've got a whole garden full to learn from. Don't
let that experience go to waste, just because the season is winding down.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What
went right?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">What always brought a smile to your face? There's usually at least one
section of your garden that works really well. That should be a key to telling
you what your style of gardening is, as well as what truly grows well in your
conditions. Was it the blue iris that bloomed with the bright yellow daylilies?
The hummingbirds flying to your Butterfly Bush? The way your Chinese Fringe
Flower made all the other plants pop? Viewing your garden in small sections
makes it easy to set up season long eye candy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.custom1contracting.com/images/mylandscaping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ab2" border="0" height="240" src="http://www.custom1contracting.com/images/mylandscaping.jpg" title="ab2" width="320" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">What went wrong? </span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Did the year seem like the endless year of problems?
Always out there keeping things cut back? Some weird bugs showed up on your
favorite plants and started eating on them and you were not sure what to do
exactly? Everything seemed dying for a drink of water but your water
restrictions or lack of your own time kept denying their thirst and they seemed
to stay alive but not thrive? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Did you find yourself telling guests, “I wish you'd been here last week,
when [fill in the blank] was in bloom?” You need to play with the sequence of
bloom in your gardens. Strive for having a different section at peak at
different times, rather than trying to have the whole garden in flower all
season. And give more focus to colorful and unusual foliage that's stunning all
season.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Have enthusiastic growers crowded out other plants? If you're wondering how
your lilies turned into a jungle, it's time to think about doing some thinning
and dividing. If you don't have the time for it now, at least mark the plants
this fall or winter, so you won't be tempted to let them be in the spring. New
gardeners like instant plants. As your garden matures, you need to be more
selective about what gets space in it. If you're pulling your hair out about
too many plants having the run of your garden, consider putting in larger
plants and more specimen shrubs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Perhaps your garden was beautiful but you just don't seem to be enjoying it
the way you used to. What about those pesky Weeds!! Did the weeds get away from
you? Make a note to mulch earlier next year. Sometimes we get caught up in
planting or waiting to see what has self-seeded. Before you know it, it’s July
and every weed seed that landed in your borders has now firmly taken hold.
Mulching isn’t fun, but it can free up so much time you would otherwise spend
weeding and watering. If you really hate to mulch, get more plants. Exposed
soil is an open invitation to weeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Did you take the actual time to smell your own Roses?? Did you spend any time
sitting and enjoying your garden or better still, entertaining in your garden.
It’s a joy to work in a garden, but you need to take time to appreciate what
you’ve created. If you don’t have a seating area (or 2 or 3) in your garden,
design one this winter. Whether it’s a small table and chairs, a couple of functional
chairs or a stone patio with a fire pit, if you build it, they will come.
Nothing pulls guests into the garden faster than a chair with a view!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">These are just a very few ideas that
pop into my head when I begin to evaluate my or a clients landscaping perhaps
it will help you do the same!! Now back to those presents and I think I am
getting hungry again...Until next time...Happy Gardening and Happy Holidays to
all of you!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Jimmie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-18442918818954637372013-12-06T06:27:00.001-08:002013-12-06T06:27:21.570-08:00<h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Plan Those Plants Before You Plant!</h2>
<h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">(You
will be glad you did)<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here's a useful tip you should remember when you next plant
trees, shrubs or any other type of plant. It's something that professional
landscapers always do, but the rest of you might overlook. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />You've unloaded all the plants you've just bought from the
Lawn and Garden store and fetched the shovel from the garage. Before you dig
into that first clod of soil (and hopefully you have prepared it to plant by
this time), do what the pros do. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://cdn1.pahlsmarket.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/trees-and-shrubs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://cdn1.pahlsmarket.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/trees-and-shrubs.jpg" width="320" /></a>Place each plant – still in its container – approximately in
position. Lay all of them out, then stand back and take a minute or two to look
over your layout. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are they too close together? Too far apart? Should this one
swap places with that one? Use the power of your mind's eye to "see"
what the mature plants </div>
will look like. Think of how the colors and textures
will look in relation to each other, and consider the relative height and cover
of each plant. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Height can be particularly important and is easy to overlook
because some plants might look quite small in relation to others right now, but
in a few years they could dominate and overpower their smaller neighbors. This
can change the entire look of your landscaping from your original concept. The
easiest way to avoid this is to be aware of the mature dimensions of each tree
and shrub you intend to plant, so be sure you have this information either from
your supplier or from a quick search on the Internet or at your local library. Bad
when the pizza guy can't find your house because that cute little shrub you
planted 5 years ago is now covering up the address! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Armed with this information and the amazing power of your
own imagination, try moving one or more plants and take another look. Keep
doing this until you're satisfied with the way they look. Believe me, it's a
lot easier to do this before you plant them, rather than after! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If your plans are a little more complex than just a few
shrubs here and there, take another tip from those professional landscape designers.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.sustland.umn.edu/design/images/lineforms9.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.sustland.umn.edu/design/images/lineforms9.gif" width="320" /></a>Get a pencil and a sheet of paper and sketch out a plan of
your land. I find grid paper with quarter-inch squares is the easiest to use.
Try "borrowing" a sheet from your kid's backpack. Or as a last
resort, buy a cheap pad from an office supply store. Draw a rough layout
showing the position of your house and/or any other outbuildings such as a
garage, a barn or that compound with your sixteen Rottweilers. Then start
placing your new trees and shrubs on your plan. You don't need to be particularly
creative; a dot for a tree trunk surrounded by a rough circle indicating the
circumference of the mature spread is fine. Not happy? Just erase it and move
it over. Simple. If your creative juices are drying up, your library will have
a number of books to get the ideas flowing! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b> Jimmie,
Some young trees on my land is exposed to sustained strong winds. Should I put
up a fence on the windward side of them? Thanks for your advice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tina L. in Prosper</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:</b> Hi Tina,
Yes... but maybe not the kind of fence you're thinking of! Firstly, wind can
cause a rapid loss of water vapor on the windward side of a tree through a
process known as transpiration. Trees sometimes appear to be turning away from
the wind as they grow. In reality, the buds on the side of the tree facing the
wind have dehydrated and died, creating a lopsided effect. But the shelter you
need to build should be an open fence or a hedge which will defray the wind
speed. A solid fence should be avoided as it can increase air turbulence and end
up making matters worse. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Question:</b> Jimmie,
I have several Oakleaf Hydrangeas and I
would like to grow a few more. Can they be divided? Started from cuttings? Any
hints you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Bonnie C. in Prosper <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Answer:</b> Hi
Bonnie, Oakleaf Hydrangeas are robust shrubs with large deciduous leaves. They
are far too stemmy to consider dividing, plus they really don’t multiply by
producing additional side plants anyway. They are grown from cuttings, but you
really need to have greenhouse type conditions, heating cables, and a misting
system to really be successful at it or have reliable results. Your probably
better off just buying a couple more verses the all the intense troubles of
trying to acclimate cuttings. Until next time…<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Gardening.</div>
<o:p></o:p>chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-56857501869988584062013-11-22T11:15:00.000-08:002013-11-22T11:15:12.234-08:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Let's
talk about when to plant that tree of yours!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One of the most asked
questions I get wherever I am running around town is "Jimmie, when is the
best time to plant a tree?" Depending on how I running on time that day I
can give the short answer or the long answer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">In general, the best time for planting trees is mid fall to early winter or
early spring. If that doesn't fit your schedule, then aim for autumn. Summer's
a bad choice, because the weather's too hot and the actively growing plants too
susceptible to damage. Weather also restricts your options in the late winter
because the cold causes the ground to freeze. If you've had the foresight to do
all your digging ahead of time (before the ground freezes), it's not impossible
to plant trees in winter. But unless you can water them sufficiently late
winter is not the best planting time, either.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Trees in a Dormant phase:</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/187/477809355_809c742210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="1" border="0" height="240" src="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/187/477809355_809c742210.jpg" title="1" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When the temperatures
from the hot summer subside and the cooler days and nights of fall set in, most
trees begin to enter a "Dormant" phase where the sap starts falling
down from the canopy and slowly works its way into the main trunk and
eventually into the root system. This is when on a deciduous tree the leaves
start turning all the pretty colors of fall and a few weeks later a big wind
will come through and blow them into your yard! "Note to self- teach the
kids how to rake leaves!!" <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When to Plant Trees That Are Deciduous<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In a way, the
best time to install deciduous types is more obvious. The dropping of their
leaves in autumn signals that they are entering dormancy. The unfurling of buds
in spring signals that they are leaving dormancy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/uploadedImages/Websites/Famous_Trees_of_Texas/Trees/Old%20Evergreen%20Tree(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2" border="0" height="240" src="http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/uploadedImages/Websites/Famous_Trees_of_Texas/Trees/Old%20Evergreen%20Tree(1).jpg" title="2" width="320" /></a><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When to Plant Trees That Are Evergreen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You have more
leeway in the matter of when to plant trees that are evergreen. You can
undertake the operation earlier in the fall and later in the spring than their
deciduous counterparts. However, you'll still want to avoid planting them when
it's hot. If it's still hot in late September, hold off till later in the fall.
Likewise, it gets pretty hot here by June so plant those evergreens earlier in
the spring! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When to Plant Trees: A Follow-Up Consideration<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Intense heat is
a major enemy to newly planted saplings. But lack of water for their root
systems is another. And although you may not think of winter as a dr<b>y</b> time due to cooler
temperatures most of our trees will still require about an inch of water per
week year round! That's why watering trees properly in fall is important --
regardless of whether you've opted for planting in autumn or in late winter /
early spring. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Question: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jimmie, thanks for your wonderful
columns! I so enjoy reading them and really learn allot from your years of
wisdom. I am thinking of buying a new tree for my backyard and I spoke with a
tree farm on the phone and the first question they asked me was I okay with a
B&B tree?? I immediately thought, "what the heck is that?" So I
figured I better ask you before I went any further! Thank you again for your
time and help! Minnie C. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Answer:</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Hi Minnie, thanks for the kind words! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Balled and burlapped plants are transplants shipped to
the consumer after having been planted, dug up and wrapped. "Balled"
refers to the root ball which has been dug up, while "burlapped"
refers to the wrapping material traditionally used for transporting tree and
shrub deliveries. The burlap is secured with string, wire or twine. When
purchasing balled-and-burlapped plants, ask if the burlap has been treated to
be rot-resistant. Anything not biodegradable needs to be removed when planting
(e.g., wire and rot-resistant burlap).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">These can also be known as (B&B, Balled in Burlap or
Ball and Burlap)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Your best (but more expensive) trees purchased from a
grower would be "Container Grown". Those would have all the roots the
tree has had its entire life and has the best chance at surviving in its new
home (your backyard)!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Question: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Jimmie, I had a young man stop
by my house the other day and advised me to do some tree work out front to my
trees and claimed he was a arborist. I figured if anyone would know how to check
this man out it would be you. Is there somewhere you know about to follow up on
this guy to make sure he is legit? Thank you so much for your time! Jennifer H.
in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b><span lang="EN">Answer: </span></b><span lang="EN">Hi Jennifer, Arborists
are professionals who practice arboriculture. They are knowledgeable about how
trees grow and how to take care of tree problems that homeowners may
experience. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN">Before hiring arborists, check to
ensure that they are certified. While this will not guarantee the desired
outcome, at least you are starting the project with someone "a cut
above" the sort of jack-of-all trades who may offer to do the work for
less money -- but who may only exacerbate the problem. Certified arborists are
accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture. Until next time...Happy
Gardening!!<o:p></o:p></span>chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-62498059002790138532013-11-08T13:36:00.001-08:002013-11-18T09:25:03.251-08:00How Safe is Your Backyard?<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>1. Dangerous Grill
Placement</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
A charcoal grill
next to combustibles (say, a wooden deck rail or low-hanging tree branches) is
a leading cause of BBQ fires, according to the National Fire Protection
Association.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Always make sure to leave a 10-foot
clearing between your grill and deck rails, the side of the house, and
overhanging plants, says David Markenson, MD, chairman of the American Red
Cross Advisory Council on First Aid and Safety.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<strong>2. Toxic Plants</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
More than 68,000 people
a year are poisoned by plants, reports the American Association of Poison
Control Centers. Most end up with nothing worse than an upset stomach or an
itchy skin rash. However, some plants can be fatal, especially to pets and
small children.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Do your homework before choosi</div>
ng
backyard vegetation, says Amy Stewart, author of Flower Confidential: The Good,
the Bad, and the Beautiful in the Business of Flowers. A few common plants
require caution: Oleander, datura (also called jimson weed), and castor bean
are all dangerous if swallowed. For a complete list of toxic plants, check out
prevention.com/links.<br />
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/moslifecycle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="ab1" border="0" src="http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/moslifecycle.jpg" title="ab1" /></a><br />
<strong>3. Tiny Pools of Water</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
Even the smallest
amount of standing water can give mosquitoes a hospitable place to multiply,
which raises your risk of bites — and infections such as West Nile virus.
"I've seen mosquitoes breeding in a soda bottle cap," says Joseph
Conlon, technical advisor for the American Mosquito Control Association.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Do a weekly check of buckets and
plastic covers and dump any water to keep pests away. Also change the water in
birdbaths and fountains.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<strong>4. Not-Quite-Extinguished Charcoal</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
Charcoal may feel
cool to the touch, but if you throw away coals while the insides are hot, you
risk starting a fire.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> When you've finished grilling dinner,
soak coals with cold water and then place them in a noncombustible metal can
for safe disposal. Keep the can on a nonflammable surface, such as the driveway
or a cement patio.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<strong>5. An Unfenced Pool</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
According to the
Home Safety Council, nearly a quarter of all drownings in the United States
happen near home. Even if your kids are older, consider this: Easy access to
your pool may lure neighborhood children or pets into the water when you're not
around.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Whether your pool is built in or
above ground, install a four-sided fence that is at least 5 feet high, with a
self-latching gate. Don't use the house as one side of the fence, because an
open door provides an easy entry, and never place patio furniture close enough
to the fence that it could be used to scale the barrier.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>6.
Pesticide Residue</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
Homeowners often
use too many pesticides — conventional or natural — or apply them incorrectly,
says Jennifer Sass, PhD, a senior scientist with the Natural Resources Defense
Council. This not only wastes money but, in extreme cases, allows chemical
levels to get high enough to cause flu like symptoms, she adds.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Cut down on pests naturally by
attracting birds and insects that eat the bugs that are attacking your prized
roses. Install a birdhouse designed for bluebirds, which feed on insects ($23;
backyardbird.com). Or grow plants — such as those in the parsley and sunflower
families — that attract predatory insects such as assassin bugs and parasitic
wasps. Despite their ominous-sounding names, these critters do your garden
good; predatory insects don't hurt plants or people but destroy the bugs that
do. Growing plants native to your region, which are less susceptible to
infestation, can help, too, advises Kimberly Rider, author of The Healthy Home
Workbook.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<strong>7. A Weather-Worn Deck</strong></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
If you don't
waterproof your deck every 2 to 3 years, moisture can seep in and warp the
wood, upping your risk of falls.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZVSRKKJRi-easvrsqUIUVmm_tTK3LkibN5vPkURyAUBQ31WxUp_xTEKTfuRiIR09IqZ9nC5iqDeCyhJttBHuHoIrkSCOG3xZpHDLewL3ec5QuN4wYCYvwP6LI677DII9xhD7p1wQJc4s/s1600/half_clean_deck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ab2" border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZVSRKKJRi-easvrsqUIUVmm_tTK3LkibN5vPkURyAUBQ31WxUp_xTEKTfuRiIR09IqZ9nC5iqDeCyhJttBHuHoIrkSCOG3xZpHDLewL3ec5QuN4wYCYvwP6LI677DII9xhD7p1wQJc4s/s320/half_clean_deck.jpg" title="ab2" width="320" /></a><strong>EASY <st1:stockticker w:st="on">FIX</st1:stockticker>:</strong> Inspect your deck every spring,
paying extra attention to the ledger board, the place where the deck attaches
to the house — it's the most vulnerable to water damage. Keep your eyes peeled
for splits and cracks — signs that moisture has gotten in. If you can easily
penetrate ¼ to ½ inch of the wood with a screwdriver or ice pick, the wood
should be replaced.</div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 14.4pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
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<b>Question: </b>Jimmie, could you address the best process for bringing
houseplants from the patio back into the house before the cold weather sets
in? we moved to Prosper end of May, some pothos plants (and couple of
others) were put outside until finding the right place for them, but they were
doing so well (and still undecided about where to put them), they are still out
there. But...I'm afraid bringing them in they will also be harboring
many of the creatures we've seen in our yard/patio...grasshoppers, spiders,
ants.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Do I take them out of the pot,
remove the dirt and repot with fresh dirt after rinsing the leaves/stems off
with water, do I apply a product...? Enjoy your column and look forward to
hearing from you. Rebecca T. in Prosper</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Answer: </b>Hi Rebecca, welcome to Prosper! I see you and your plants
are still acclimating. </div>
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Your best and easiest solution for
your concerns are to simply spray "Neem Oil" or an "Insecticidal
soap" on your plants before bring them in for the winter. Most of these
type of products also offer a Organic alternative but those usually require
more treatments before bringing plants inside where as the Neem Oil is one shot
and your done.</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
Before placing plants in a more
permanent location (perhaps in the spring) that would be the correct time to
remove and replace soil into larger container for future root growth etc..
Until next time...Happy Gardening!! Visit our new website at <a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-12518097216191246432013-10-25T12:05:00.003-07:002013-11-18T09:25:22.135-08:00Some Thoughts to Make Gardening Easier<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Some Thoughts to Make Gardening Easier<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Making gardening easier doesn't mean there won't always be something to do
in the garden. Although most gardeners enjoy the time they spend working in
their gardens, there comes a point when garden tasks can get ahead of you,
making you can feel like you've bitten off more than you can chew. The
following gardening and garden planning tips can put you a little ahead of the
game. <br />
Some of these tips are common sense and some may seem like more work in the
short term, but they all really will make gardening easier for you. And that
way you'll have time to create even more gardens! <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Feedthe Soil</a></b> You've heard it a thousand times, but do you do it? Start with
great soil and you'll wind up with great plants. Healthy plants get fewer
diseases, attract less insect pests and require less water. Plus you won't have
to remember to fertilizer every other week. </div>
<a href="http://home.gci.net/~goodgame/images/low.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://home.gci.net/~goodgame/images/low.jpg" width="320" /></a>Start with a good analysis of your existing soil. You can have all the
essential nutrients tested or just the <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">pH</span>.
Many nurseries provide this service as well as your local <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Cooperative
Extension Service</span>. If your soil is deficient in any minerals
or nutrients, <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">amend the soil</span>
according to recommendations. Then keep adding organic matter, like <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">compost</span>,
regularly. <br />
Slow release, organic fertilizers can help
supplement deficient nutrients. But feeding plants with synthetic fertilizers
can actually destroy the beneficial organisms and organic matter within soil
and only provide a short fix. It's like turning your garden into a drug addict.
It will need regular doses of fertilizer and more and more to get the same
effect. <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">GroupPlants by Their Needs</a></b> I'm sure you've heard the saying "Right plant
for the right spot." That's the beginning of the equation. Of course
you're going to want to put sun lovers in the sun and ground covers where they
can roam. But consider how efficient it would be if you put all your water hogs
together so you could just turn on the sprinklers or drag the hose to one area
and be done. The same goes for plants that require a lot of <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">deadheading</span>
or vegetables that need to be harvested daily or hourly, like zucchini. You can
still mix in different bloom times and variations in color, form and texture.
It's just the heavy maintenance chores that should be consolidated. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Choose Lower Maintenance Perennials</a></b>
There will always be prim Dona plants you have to have (although probably less
and less of them as you get older), but make the backbone of your garden
perennial flowers that can take care of themselves. Plants like <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Astilbes</span>
and Sedums that look good all season and don't need deadheading, pinching or
staking. Here are even more <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">low maintenance
perennials</span>. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Raised Beds and Containers</a></b> It's much easier to control your garden if it has
definite boundaries. <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Containers</span>
provide the ultimate in control. You control the soil, water, exposure and even
limit the growth of the plants in the container. Raised beds separate the
garden beds from their surroundings. Ideally, lift the beds up by 6 inches or
more. You'll have the benefits of controlling your borders and you'll be saving
your back from some bending. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Install Drip Irrigation</a></b> This is one of those suggestions that sound like it's going
to cost a fortune and require a professional to install - and it can. But it
doesn't have to. They've reduced drip irrigation to a tinker toy level. Believe
me, if I can grasp it, so can you. There is an initial cost, although no where
near what you might fear, and you will need to do some measuring. But unless
you rely solely on rain to water your gardens, you will actually save money in
the long run. Drip irrigation is far more efficient than any other type of
watering. Plus it puts all the water right where your plants need it. Add an
inexpensive timer and think of all the time you've saved yourself. </div>
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<b>Mulch</b> Again, this is common sense and something
you've been told a thousand times. Yet many gardeners only view mulch as
decoration. Mulch does make a garden look more attractive, but it also keeps
the soil and plant roots cool, retains moisture so you can water less often,
prevents weed seeds from seeing the light of day and sprouting and feeds the
soil. Right there you've cut down on watering, weeding and fertilizing time. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Time Released
Fertilizer and Water Polymers</b> Container gardens are the exception to the
Feed the Soil rule above. It's not practical to use compost or garden soil in
containers and so some supplemental feeding is necessary to keep the plants
going. Containers also dry out more quickly than garden bed soil, especially if
the bed is mulched. So start your container gardening season by adding some
slow release fertilizer pellets and some polymer crystals that grab hold and
slowly release water to the plant roots. Add both at planting time. Both
products are widely available at garden centers. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.picgifs.com/clip-art/activities/gardening/clip-art-gardening-188910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.picgifs.com/clip-art/activities/gardening/clip-art-gardening-188910.jpg" width="268" /></a> <b>Ergonomic Tools</b>
A lot of gardening is repetitive motion and can be very stressful on the
joints, especially the wrists and back. Thankfully garden tool companies have
been coming out with more and better tools that work with the body, taking some
of the bending and squeezing out of garden work. Look around for ratchet
pruners, bent rakes, cushioned handles and trowels that don't require you to
bend your wrist. </div>
<b>Wheels</b> Watch a child with a new wagon. They can't find enough things
to put in it or enough places to go. Now think about how long you've put off
moving that cement bird bath or how many plants are still sitting in pots on
your driveway because you didn't want to make one more trip. This is why man
invented the wheel. Get yourself at least one good <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">garden cart or
wheelbarrow</span> and don't go out into the garden without it. You
can tote your tools, move plants, harvest, toss weeds right into it and glide
down to the compost heap. No matter how small your plot is, you'll get more
done with wheels. If you have a very large plot, consider wheels with a motor. <br />
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<b>Child
Labor</b> Show your children and grandkids early in life how much fun and how
exciting gardening is. They may never enjoy deadheading the petunias, I know I
don't, but planting, harvesting, learning what's a weed, collecting insects -
these are all <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">activities that
will get them out into the garden</span>. All right, maybe it won't
lessen the work load, but good companionship can make it seem so.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sorry,
didn’t have time to get to all your questions this column. Been busy getting
clients on track for fall needs!! Until next time…Happy Gardening!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jimmie<br />
Visit our new website at <a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a></div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4808140025399995835.post-14890994933295891822013-10-11T14:16:00.000-07:002013-11-18T09:25:51.835-08:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Tree
care tips for this fall<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The gardening
season isn't over once fall arrives, especially when it comes to your trees.
Fall is an excellent time for planting most trees. It's also important to do
your fall tree care now to prepare them for winter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Planting<o:p></o:p></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.wahoociviccenter.com/images_c/Tree%20Planting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.wahoociviccenter.com/images_c/Tree%20Planting.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Most trees can
be planted in fall. The temperatures are cooler, stressing the trees less and
allowing them a better chance to get their roots established. It also helps
that by this time in the growing season, some places discount their plant
stock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Special Care for Young Trees<o:p></o:p></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Young trees are
especially susceptible to the temperature changes that come with winter in cold
climates. They are usually not developed enough to withstand the constant freezing
and thawing that may occur throughout the upcoming winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One way to help
combat this is with a thick (3-6")mulch layer. Do not put it right up
against the trunk - this can cause moisture buildup that attracts fungus. Better to build up a circular berm around the
outside canopy at the base of the tree. Shredded cedar would be best to use.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Watering<o:p></o:p></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There's a chill
creeping into the air. The leaves are changing colors. Winter is just around
the corner. Now is the time to think about properly watering your trees in
autumn to help ensure against damage in the winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the middle
of winter, the ground is frozen. Trees are not able to access water, so it is
important that you are watering your trees in autumn as necessary. Watering
your trees in early autumn is different than late autumn, so water accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Early Autumn<o:p></o:p></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In early
autumn, you should stop watering your deciduous and evergreen trees. Do not
worry about watering until the leaves have fallen from the deciduous trees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The trees are
still growing in early autumn and watering will encourage new growth. If a
frost comes when there is new growth on the tree, it will be damaged.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Late Autumn<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Once the
deciduous trees have lost their leaves in late autumn, it is time to start
watering again. Evergreen trees will definitely need to be watered before
winter - since they never lose their foliage and go into full dormancy, they
will constantly be losing water throughout the winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By late autumn,
the tops of the trees have gone dormant, so they will not produce new growth.
The tree is busy moving nutrients around in preparation for dormancy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Water deeply
(at least 1-2 feet deep at a time) until the ground is frozen. Deep watering
encourages proper root growth so that the trees will be able to access water
farther down in the soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Young trees, especially, need lots of water to establish
roots in preparation for winter. Newly planted trees should be watered at the
base, while more mature trees should be watered at the drip line. T</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">he drip line is the area directly located under the outer
circumference of the tree branches. This is where the tiny rootlets are located
that take up water for the tree. Trees should be watered here, not by the base
of the trunk, or the tree may develop root rot.</span><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Fertilizing<o:p></o:p></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Watch for signs
that your trees need fertilization. Some signs that may indicate a nutrient
problem are:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Reduced growth
in branches and leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://lisadline.com/landscapes-trees/fall-tree-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ab2" border="0" height="320" src="http://lisadline.com/landscapes-trees/fall-tree-2.jpg" title="ab1" width="232" /></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Yellow or pale
green leaves (in those trees that do not turn yellow in fall).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Leaves changing
colors and falling earlier than usual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wilting<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fertilizing in
fall can cause rapid new growth, which could be damaged in winter. Consider
fertilizing in spring if possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pruning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make sure to remove the 3 D's - dead,
diseased or damaged.</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> They all serve as points where diseases or pests could
enter. Removing them will also make the tree look better. You can also prune
branches that aren't growing the way you would like.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do thin rather
than shear on flowering trees - prune lightly because next year's flower buds
have already been formed, and heavy pruning would affect the next spring's flower
production.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/" target="_blank">Dormant Spray</a> -<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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A dormant spray may be a good idea for deciduous trees, ornamentals, fruit
trees and shrubs. But remember not to spray until after you prune. Obviously,
you will lose much of your effort and expense if you cut off treated limbs.<br />
Choice of chemicals is important. Dormant sprays include lime, copper and
sulfur combinations to kill overwintering microorganisms. Dormant oil controls
insects and their eggs. You just may need several types of sprays and oils to
be effective. <br />
Avoid spraying any of this material in the hot sun as it can damage dormant
buds. Get specific chemical recommendations from you local county extension
agent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Question:</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"> Jimmie, How long into the fall season should I continue
to mow the lawn? Thanks for your time, I always enjoy learning from your
articles!! Richard P. in Prosper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Answer: </span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Hi Richard, thanks for the kind words. Those of us who
despise mowing can't wait to retire the mower for another year. But don't be
too hasty. Nor should you think that, just because you stopped mowing last year
on such-and-such a date, the same end-date will be valid this year. This
question's a lot easier to answer than you might imagine. Simply continue to
mow the lawn until the grass stops growing! </span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Weather will determine this, not
some artificial deadline. Until next time...Happy Gardening!!</span><br />
Visit our new website at <a href="http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com/">www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com</a><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06300360603173167014noreply@blogger.com0