Q I’ve a big assortment of bonsai timber that every one require a point of winterization: Evergreen conifers and cold-hardy deciduous broadleaf timber (oaks, maples, hackberry) get mulched-in outdoor in a plant mattress close to a picket fence. Different much less cold-hardy, broad-leaf timber like crape myrtles will come into an unheated storage that by no means actually will get beneath 50 or 55 levels, however not till after going absolutely dormant first outdoor. Lastly, my tropicals go to a climate-controlled greenhouse the place they proceed on right into a type of diminished “rising season.” One tree, nevertheless, at all times has me questioning which choice is greatest — (1 or 2)? That tree is a large-leaf azalea pictured right here mulched-in outdoor now [the reader sent a photo]. Hold it outdoor or storage it? Your skilled opinion — noting that my necessities would favor a much less battle-scarred tree come spring, however not on the expense of optimum well being and longevity.
A If we had a crystal ball and will assure the climate, it will make my reply simpler. I feel to be on the secure facet, the storage choice is the most effective. Even established azaleas can undergo winter harm in a very chilly winter. Bonsai crops have a extra restricted root system, which implies much less hardiness. You probably have the choice (and endurance) to depart it outdoors, and transfer it in solely in dire circumstances that will work as properly.
Q I just lately noticed your column that talked about the gorgeous autumn colours this 12 months on Japanese maples. This one right here was particularly attention-grabbing in that it combines the outer leaves silvered from a dry frost adopted by a rush of understory leaves blushed up after soaking a number of weeks later [the reader sent a photo]. It made for an enchanting and completely different fall coloration scheme on the tree that I hadn’t seen earlier than.
A That’s gorgeous. Thanks for sharing. What an attention-grabbing 12 months for fall coloration.
Q Assist me! I’ve a sick palm. I simply now was in a position to get it in my storage, so did I kill it? Please assist me to put it aside.
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A It seems like Yucca gigantea to me, not a palm. This yucca isn’t the identical species because the one we will maintain outdoors in our gardens, and this one isn’t winter hardy in Arkansas. It did take a success from the chilly, however I’d be shocked if it was killed. Hold it within the storage for the winter and do some trimming on the broken foliage within the spring once you transfer it again outdoors. Yuccas are fairly powerful crops. It could take a bit to regain its peak efficiency, however it ought to come again.
Q I do know you could have informed us a thousand occasions easy methods to look after a poinsettias, however I would not have a inexperienced thumb. The one I bought on the first of the month nonetheless has crimson flowers, however it’s shedding leaves. What can I do?
A Be sure to aren’t overwatering — or underwatering. Overwatering is certainly extra widespread, however each faults could cause leaves to shed. The crimson “flowers” are literally modified leaves referred to as bracts. They will maintain that crimson coloration for months, supplied they get even moisture and ample daylight. If the crops are in a foil wrap, when watering, take away the wrap and let the water move by means of to the sink, then put it again within the wrap or place it on a tray. Let it get just a little dry in between waterings. Shiny daylight or synthetic mild through the day can also be essential. Good luck!
Q I’ve that white mould on two crape myrtle timber. Is it too late to use dormant oil?
A The white “mould” is definitely the crape myrtle bark scale. The bugs are often coupled with black sooty mould, which varieties on the sticky excrement the bugs give off. It’s not too late to make use of a dormant oil. Decide a day when the temperatures are above freezing, and totally saturate the tree. Extra mature crape myrtles typically have peeling or scaly bark, so it’s often not possible to get complete protection with the oil, however it does assist.
Retired after 38 years with the College of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Janet Carson ranks amongst Arkansas’ greatest recognized horticulture specialists. Her weblog is at arkansasonline.com/planitjanet. Write to her at P.O. Field 2221, Little Rock, AR 72203 or electronic mail
jcarson@arkansasonline.com
