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
Question: I have noticed that many white pines in my neighborhood are turning brown. They are not near traffic (so not salt) and are very old white pines. What may be causing this? They are turning completely brown, not just dropping seasonal needles. Answer: Viña Lindley, Food Systems & Home Horticulture Professional Thank you for […]
Read more
Question: We have been having a problem with snails for a few years now. In the garden, they are pretty much on everything and in the lawn as well. We also have slugs too. We are looking for a way to get rid of them. Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Slugs […]
Read more
Question: My Arborvitae has some brown branches on one side. What can I do to stop the spread and bring it back to health? It was transplanted last August and wrapped in burlap over the winter. Answer: Liz Stanley, Horticulture Community Education Assistant It looks like an environmental problem rather than a pest or disease […]
Read more
Question: I have a small fringe tree that I may have planted in too small of a hole. I think it has hit marine clay and may be root bound. I am interested in digging it up, perhaps clipping it back, and replacing it in a much bigger hole. Is it too late in the […]
Read more
Question: My 4-inch green bean seedling leaves are being eaten. The leaves look like lace! I can’t find the culprit but the crop is being destroyed. Any ideas what this could be? Answer: Lynne M. Holland, Horticulture and Social Media Professional Without a photo it is really just a guess. You have to know what […]
Read more