Many trees planted each year by well-meaning homeowners and community workers will never flourish because they are hopelessly unsuited for the conditions in which they are placed. Before rushing in to plant just any available trees, do enough … [Read more...]
From the Help Desk – DEFOLIATED JAPANESE BARBERRY BUSHES
ISSUE: Client has barberry shrubs with webbing and defoliation, with bushes looking terrible. DIAGNOSIS / RECOMMENDATION The problem is the barberry webworm (Omphalocera dentosa). Defoliated branches and webs can be cut out and … [Read more...]
Viburnum–A Shrub for Many Settings
Viburnums are evergreen or deciduous, depending on the species and the location. Most prefer sun, but some do well in partial shade. Their hardiness is well suited to the cold winters of USDA hardiness zone 7. They are adaptable to a range of soil … [Read more...]
Lilacs: Identify and Manage Problems
Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is a woody shrub grown for its extremely fragrant flowers in mid to late spring, depending on the location. Read more: … [Read more...]
From the Help Desk – Isn’t That Just Plum-Dandy!
QUESTION The client called about a 6-yr old plum tree that had fruit for 3 years but not for last 2 even though it bloomed well. DIAGNOSIS / RECOMMENDATION The problem was identified as a lack of a pollinator variety. Japanese plums … [Read more...]
From the Help Desk
Oh, the Gall of it All QUESTION The client submitted a photo of a strange growth on his oak tree and asked to know what it is and if he should do something about it. DIAGNOSIS / RECOMMENDATION It was identified as the wool sower gall, … [Read more...]
Solving the bagworm problem without chemicals
Sooner or later, most landscapes have to deal with a bagworm problem. Sometimes the hungry pests only threaten one or two trees in a landscape. But they can really ruin the party when it comes to the classic, evergreen privacy buffer. Continued: … [Read more...]
Assessing and Dealing with Snowstorm Damage on Trees
Though snowfall can transform our landscape in ways beautiful and wondrous, heavy snowfall can also cause astounding harm. Trees and shrubs broken under the weight of snow and ice need to have damaged wood carefully removed. CONTINUE … [Read more...]
Uses for Christmas Trees in the Garden
If your family enjoyed a live Christmas tree this year, and haven’t disposed of it yet, then put it too good use. Who said procrastination was always a bad thing? This year, it’s being environmentally efficient. Repurpose, reuse and recycle. Read … [Read more...]
Christmas Tree Farms!
Cut your own Christmas Tree in Virginia! Maps, directions, locations and more for Christmas tree farms around Bedford County, VA! Pining for the perfect tree? Find one that's right for your home at a Bedford County, VA area Christmas tree … [Read more...]