Pruning is an essential part of tree maintenance. It helps keep trees healthy and aesthetically pleasing by removing dead, damaged, and diseased branches. But does pruning also reduce root growth? The answer is not so straightforward. How Trees Grow To understand how pruning affects roots, it helps to first understand how trees grow. Trees grow … Read more
As a strawberry grower, you’ve likely noticed those bright white flowers blooming on your plants in spring. But should you leave them be or cut them off? There’s good reason behind removing some or all of the blossoms. Let’s take a closer look at why cutting flowers boosts fruit production. Why Cut Off Flowers? It … Read more
The Meyer lemon is a popular citrus tree for home gardens due to its compact size, productivity, and sweeter, less acidic fruit compared to other lemons. However, Meyer lemons are only hardy down to around 25°F (-4°C), so they can be damaged or killed by frigid winter temperatures in some regions. If you want to … Read more
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are a popular fall flower known for their showy blooms in vibrant colors. However, their blossoms don’t last forever. You may eventually notice your potted mums wilting, drooping or turning brown. Don’t give up on them yet! With some attentive care, you can often revive dying mums and restore their … Read more
Scotch broom is a hardy shrub that produces bright, golden yellow flowers in spring. However, without proper pruning, scotch broom can become leggy and unkempt. Learning how to correctly prune this plant will keep it looking tidy and promote vigorous growth. When to Prune Scotch Broom The best time to prune scotch broom is right … Read more
Determining the ideal vegetative stage duration for cannabis grown in 5 gallon pots requires balancing multiple factors. By considering the genetics, space constraints, training techniques and your desired yield, you can maximize the vegetative period to achieve beautifully developed plants ready for flowering. How Plant Size Affects Flowering Potential In general, allowing a longer vegetative … Read more
Trimming and pruning fruit trees in winter is an essential task for any backyard orchardist. While summer pruning focuses on controlling growth and improving fruit quality, the goals of winter pruning are more structural – controlling tree height, removing diseased wood, and improving air circulation and light penetration in the canopy. Proper winter pruning sets … Read more
Butterfly bushes (Buddleia) produce striking, cone-shaped flower spikes that attract fluttering pollinators. As flowers fade, the choice arises – should you deadhead spent blooms or leave them be? There are good reasons for both approaches. Read on to learn the pros and cons of deadheading butterfly bushes to make the best choice for your garden. … Read more
The desert rose plant (Adenium obesum) is a popular houseplant beloved for its colorful flowers and swollen caudiciform trunk. However, these plants sometimes develop issues with yellowing leaves that drop off. If your desert rose has leaves turning yellow, don’t despair. With a few adjustments to its care, you can get your plant thriving again. … Read more
Tuberous begonias are stunning plants that produce abundant flowers in shades of white, pink, red, yellow, and orange. They grace summertime gardens and containers with their showy blossoms and attractive foliage. With proper care, many tuberous begonia varieties can be kept alive through winter and rebloom for years to come. Here is a step-by-step guide … Read more