Question: We have both common and swamp milkweed in the backyard. This year we have noticed ants and aphids in the plants. We understand about their symbiotic relationship but wondered if they would damage the plant or the monarch caterpillars. If so, what is the best way to get ride of them? Answer: Pamela Hargest, […]
Read more
Question: I’m looking to put in a small hedge in along my property line. The site receives part-sun, and is on the dryer side. It’s a relatively narrow area, so I don’t want anything really large or fast growing. Do you have any suggestions for native plants for this spot? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture […]
Read more
Question: I purchase a house and the previous owner had planted 17 apple trees. They are producing apples and I had some questions to ask. 1. Is it okay for me to eat these apples? 2. I am planning on making pesticide by mixing baking soda, vegetable oil, dish soap and water to spray the […]
Read more
Question: We have a Red Japanese maple tree that looks to be showing signs of disease. The bark is peeling and cracking and the crotch of the tree appears to have some rot. The leaves are not as full this year. There is no outward sign of insects that we can see. Last year, there […]
Read more
Question: I planted a butterfly magnolia tree a couple years ago. Last year it had one flower at the beginning of the season. This year it doesn’t have anything and I noticed it has three splits in its trunk. I put fertilizer around it this year but just a day ago. It seems nothing grows […]
Read more
Question: I’m growing grapes in what I believe is leaded soil. I haven’t yet tested, but nearby soil is leaded. I’m aware that the fruits are safe to eat if they are kept free of dirt, but I’m wondering if the leaves are safe to eat as well. Answer: Viña Lindley, Food Systems & Home […]
Read more
Question: I’m interested to know about an infestation on our cherry trees. There are colonies of small insects living under the tree leaves which are curling in on themselves. These spots are of interest to ants for some reason. Is this a concern or a normal relationship between the tree, the little black insects and […]
Read more
Question: I’m looking for guidance on space management. We have a threadleaf falsecypress, planted in 2017, which is now 7-8′ tall and 6-7′ wide. It’s crowding two tom thumb cotoneasters, three false indigos and a viburnum that were all planted at the same time. Can the falsecypress be pruned? If so, how best is that […]
Read more
Question: Is black mulch toxic to plants? I believe that several plants in my flower garden have been stunted or killed by the black mulch that was placed around them. If the mulch can be ruled out as the cause, I will investigate other possibilities. Is the dye toxic? Answer: Liz Stanley, Horticulture Community Education […]
Read more
Question: I would like to know what native grasses do well in a sunny exposure. I would like to use them as a border and would like a variety that is rather big. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional What great question since most of our landscapes are made […]
Read more