Ask The Expert
Our knowledgeable staff here at Garden-Ville are available to answer many of the questions you might have about gardens, landscaping, and trees. Many problems with plants, however, cannot be responsibly diagnosed other than in person. We're located in central Texas and may not be familiar with the details of gardening in very different climate or soil zones. One of the guiding principles of organic growing is adapting methods to the particularites of local soil and climate. With that in mind we'll do our best to answer your question, but if we can't we'll be happy to help you find the appropriate resources or professionals in your area.
Feel free to browse the topics below to see if we've already answered a question similar to yours. If you can't find the information you need, the question submission form is located at the bottom of the page.
I planted a live oak about 2 years ago that was about 7 feet tall. I have left the lower four branches (about 4 feet from the ground) and all are growing in an upward position. The tree is doing very well in that it is now about 18 feet tall and the main trunk has increased in size. When, and should I cut the bottom branches off? Its natural growth at the top is excellent. I am concerned if I cut the bottom branches off that it will disturb the fast growth and natural lines of the branches at the top..Thank you for your help.
1/27/200912:38:56 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You can remove 1/10th of the foliage in a given growing season without any harm to the tree. Branches 4' from the ground would typically be removed sooner or later, although there's no imperative to do so. You can remove them once removal wouldn't involve a major loss of canopy. Taking off the bottom branches will tend to increase growth at the top of the tree rather than restricting it.One consideration is the diameter off the branch being removed relative to the trunk or branch it attaches to. You shouldn't remove branches that are more than 50% the diameter of the parent branch or trunk. Doing so produces wounds that the tree has difficulty callusing over. As an example of this, if the trunk is 6" thick at the point of removal the branch being removed should be no more than 3". If the branch to be removed is more than 50% you should instead prune the end of the branch, removing more than half of its foliage. This will stunt the growth of the branch in subsequent seasons relative to the trunk. Eventually it will meet the necessary ratio for removal.Cuts should be made at an angle away from the trunk, taking care not to damage any of the trunk tissue that overlaps at the base of the branch.If you live in an area where oak wilt is a threat you should immediately paint any cuts (black spray paint is fine) to prevent infestation by the beetles that spread the disease.I have a neighbor who urinates on a Live Oak tree in the backyard on a regular basis ( atleast twice a day ). Does this harm the health of the tree in any way ? If so, what is the effect ?
1/12/200910:31:37 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Urinating on the tree is not going to have any negative consequences for the tree. It actually adds nitrogen to the soil, which is one of the most important plant nutrients. Undiluted urine can burn grass, however, so if your neighbor is going in the same place you may notice dead grass around the spot. Also, if your neighbor is actually going on the trunk the benefits are going to be reduced. Most of the feeder roots are out further away, towards the dripline.
We have a huge native pecan tree in our backyard in Austin, Texas that shades the entire year. It is about 75 feet tall. We are currently in a drought and we do not water regularly around the tree nor do we fertilize regularly. There does not seem to be a visual bad effects from this neglect but should we start caring for the tree more actively? They produce nuts every other year and are small but tasty.
1/5/20099:51:59 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Most of the time people are prone to overwatering rather than underwatering. However, in the current drought it might not be a bad idea to water very occasionally to make sure the tree survives, especially if it is an old and valuable tree. Water deeply (slow drip applied over a number of hours) at or near the dripline of the tree. Most of the feeder roots are located out away from the trunk. Do this no more than once a month.Mulching around the tree to a depth of 3"-4" is the single best thing you can do to promote tree health. This will moderate soil temperatures, help prevent soil compaction, and help greatly with water retention. Mulch should not come into contact with the trunk. Mulch as far out as you are willing to go--as far as the dripline is best.A regular fertilization program is helpful to maximize productivity on any fruit or nut tree. A helpful article is located at http://www.dirtdoctor.com/view_question.php?id=1957.I set out a grafted pecan tree a few years back as a pollinator for older trees. A wind storm broke the crown out above the graft. I now have about 4 large shoots above the graft with one being larger than the others. The height is about 8 feet. Is the tree ruined? Should I leave it as is? Should I prune all but the largest one?
12/22/20089:20:20 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
You can do whichever you prefer, although I would probably recommend leaving all the shoots in place. I'm not sure if the total height of the tree is 8' or if that's where the break occurred and the sprouts are coming from. If you want the tree's canopy to begin there then you should leave it as is. If you want a higher canopy you should prune to the single shoot. Bear in mind that shoots of this kind are often more weakly attached than a typical branch, so if you grow one of these shoots into a single trunk it may be more prone to failure in the future. Also, the tree will probably look more normal if its allowed to develop its canopy from this place rather than off a single shoot that will result in a offset trunk. I would also recommend putting down some of our Sick Tree Treatment, which is a blend of biosolid compost, lava sand, and greensand. It helps damaged and stressed trees to recover. You can buy it at any of our stores or order it from our website.
I have planted two weeping cedar atlas in NC possibly two years ago. They were doing fine until I noticed that the needles from one had all fallen off. I examined the base and saw a deep wound at the base just above the soil with a lot of sap coming out. Today I found a similar wound on the other, same results. What is causing it and what can I do?
12/22/20089:07:32 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You'll want to have a certified arborist out to inspect the trees to be certain, but my initial guess would be some kind of root rot. Root problems typically manifest with leaf drop and die back from the tips of branches, and bleeding cankers on the lower parts of the trunk can be caused by phythophthera (one kind of root disease). Root rot is caused by poor drainage and water logged soils, possibly as a result of overwatering. Both of these symptoms can have other causes, however, so I recommend having a qualified professional look at the trees. You can find an arborist at www.isa-arbor.com.
I have 2 Italian Cypress that do not have green on one side of the tree. What can I do to nursse it back to health?
12/15/200811:27:29 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Without more information its hard to say exactly what is wrong with these trees. Italian cypress are susceptible to a variety of problems. Make sure you aren't overwatering. Italian cypress are a Mediterranean species, which need good drainage and a chance to dry out between waterings. Also check for environmental factors that might be causing death on one side of the tree only. Spider mites are a common problem on these trees. Vigorously shake some of the brown branches above a sheet of white paper. If you see tiny little specks--smaller than a pinhead--moving around on the sheet you have mites. Regardless of the problem we recommend our Sick Tree Treatment for stressed trees. It's a mix of Greensand, lava sand, and composted biosolids that improves the soil and provides the micronutrients that the tree needs to improve its health.
We planted six Texas Mountain Laural bushes in our yard 5-years ago and they are not much larger than when we planted them. We were told not to fertilize them but only water. What can we use to encourage them to grow?
12/11/20089:07:48 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Texas Mountain Laurel are a slow growing species. They're also very drought tolerant and require well drained soils, so be careful that you aren't overwatering. Too much water can stunt or kill them. There's no harm in applying an organic fertilizer such as our 6-2-2 Soil Food. Incorporating compost into the soil around the plant can also help encourage growth.
I have a plum tree that I planted several monts ago (San Antonio). It appears that it is dying, The leaves are falling off, after turning brown. I am watering every five to seven days. There are several other fruit trees that seem to be doing fine. Any thoughts?
11/28/20089:42:02 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Sounds to me like its just going dormant for the winter. Nothing to worry about. Be careful not to overwater. If you have some concerns about the tree you can put down some of our Sick Tree Treatment. It's got lots of minerals and micronutrients that boost the tree's natural defenses against disease and insect attack.I live in Central Texas and our back-yard has many oak trees. I have mulched the entire area once a year, but wondering if it is becoming too thick for trees. Can I rake some layers of mulch away, and spread it on my lawn (then run a lawnmower over it)?
11/23/200811:42:15 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Lawn Questions, Living Mulch, mulch, Tree Questions
It depends on what you're using to mulch the area and how much you add each year. Optimal mulch depth is 3-4". More than that is only called for to protect trees in extremely high traffic areas (construction sites, for example). If you're using a long lasting mulch such as hardwood you may not need to add it every year, or only add an inch or so. There's be natural compaction, some erosion (depending on the site), and gradual decay of old mulch into the soil. I would recommend using our Living Mulch for annual applications. This is a 50/50 mix of compost and shredded hardwood. The advantage of this product is that the compost will feed the trees, whereas a straight hardwood mulch is nearly all carbon and doesn't provide much in the way of nourishment to the soil.If you have been using a wood mulch I wouldn't recommend applying it to the lawn as you described. The reason is that there is so little nitrogen in the wood itself that it will actually pull nitrogen out of the soil as it decays, which can be detrimental to the lawn. Compost is a much better option for lawn top dressing--our Alamo Gro is great for this, and this is the right time of year to make the application.I have some hardwoods in my yard in west central Ga. I have noticed in the last two months that a lot of branches the size of my little finger & smaller are falling off. It appears they are being eaten in a pattern that looks like a copper tubing cutter has been used to cut them off. What kind of varment do I have & how do i get rid of it??
11/10/20083:56:41 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
I hesitate making the diagnosis without being actually seeing the damage, but it sounds to me like you've got a problem with twig girdlers. The good news is that they're not a terribly serious pest in terms of overall tree health. The bad news is that there's not a whole lot you can do about currently active beetles. Gather up all the fallen twigs and burn them--the beetles lay their eggs in the fallen side of the twig or branch there. The other thing you can do is over the winter to fertilize your trees with a low nitrogen, high micronutrient fertilizer. This will help the trees bolster their natural defense mechanisms.
I have some hardwoods in my yard in west central Ga. I have noticed in the last two months that a lot of branches the size of my little finger & smaller are falling off. It appears they are being eaten in a pattern that looks like a copper tubing cutter has been used to cut them off. What kind of varment do I have & how do i get rid of it??
11/10/20083:56:31 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
I hesitate making the diagnosis without being actually seeing the damage, but it sounds to me like you've got a problem with twig girdlers. The good news is that they're not a terribly serious pest in terms of overall tree health. The bad news is that there's not a whole lot you can do about currently active beetles. Gather up all the fallen twigs and burn them--the beetles lay their eggs in the fallen side of the twig or branch there. The other thing you can do is over the winter to fertilize your trees with a low nitrogen, high micronutrient fertilizer. This will help the trees bolster their natural defense mechanisms.
Two years ago I bought a home with 2 pecan trees in the back yard. Both years the trees have produced a lot of pecans but they are all rotten . What is wrong and what can I do. I believe the trees are about 12 years old. Thanks
10/25/20084:10:57 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
This is a pretty common problem for pecans. I expect the problem is nutrient deficiencies. If you want reliable nut production I'd recommend following an organic fertilization program. The following program is from Texas Organic Vegetable Gardening by Howard Garrett and Malcolm Beck.
In early February, 20 pounds any standard organic fertilizer per 1000 square feet. Lava sand at 80 pounds per square feet. Sugar at 2-5 pounds per square feet.
In early June, 20 pounds organic fertilizer per 1000 square feet. Greensand at 80 pounds per 1000.
In early September, 20 pounds organic fert per 1000. Sul-Po-Mag at 20 pounds per 1000.
Try this for a year and see what results you get.I live in New Orleans and am a gardener at a public school. We planted about a dozen citrus trees in April and they look terrible. The limbs are drooping over and the leaves are curled. They were planted straight into pumped river sand which most likely has something to do with why they look so bad. The river sand holds water unlike regular sand. Do you have any suggestions as to how we can save our citrus? Could we transplant? They are between 2 and 4 years old. Thank you!
10/25/200811:58:22 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
It sounds like the river sand could be the problem. How often have you been watering them, and how long does the soil stay wet after you do? If the soil is the issue I'd recommend transplanting as your best bet for saving them. You can do some things to prolong the life of a tree in extremely poor soil conditions, but it's still going to die prematurely. Since they're still young transplanting has a good chance of success. Transplant into an area with a lighter, better draining soil. Also check the depth at which they are/will be planted. The soil should be at the level of the top of the root flare. This is important for all trees, but especially for citrus, which are usually grafted. Citrus can also do well in large pots--lots of people here in central Texas keep citrus in 30-40 gallon pots so they can drag them inside before it freezes. Depending on the condition of the soil there at the school that may be an option to look at.
I live in the Atlanta, GA suburbs, and I have a yellow poplar in my front yard that has been dropping brown leaves all summer long. I have seen other yellow poplars in the neighborhood that have much fuller canopies and have just started to turn yellow. Mine is all yellow and brown and the leaves on the branches are scarce. I have noticed some of the leaves on the tree have small holes in them also. I want to save the tree, it is fully grown and has the potential to be beautiful. What should I do?
10/22/20085:40:12 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
For any definitive diagnosis I would definitely recommend having a professional out to look at the tree. If you go to http://www.isa-arbor.com/ you can find an ISA Certified Arborist in your area. It sounds to me like you may have some kind of fungal disease causing premature leaf death and drop. Trees are more vulnerable to disease and insect attach if they are unhealthy. Prematurely yellow leaves may indicate a nitrogen deficiency. You also might check your watering regimen. Too much water or poor drainage can cause root disease which can manifest as a nitrogen deficiency. We sell a product called Sick Tree Treatment. It comes in 40 pound bags, each of which treats 1000 square feet. You'll want to treat the entire area under the dripline of the tree (the edge of the canopy). You can order it through our website. We also recommend mulching around the base of the tree. Going as far as the dripline is best, but at least 4-6' to a depth of at least 3" is highly recommended.
I live in the Atlanta, GA suburbs, and I have a yellow poplar in my front yard that has been dropping brown leaves all summer long. I have seen other yellow poplars in the neighborhood that have much fuller canopies and have just started to turn yellow. Mine is all yellow and brown and the leaves on the branches are scarce. I have noticed some of the leaves on the tree have small holes in them also. I want to save the tree, it is fully grown and has the potential to be beautiful. What should I do?
10/22/20083:31:07 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
For any definitive diagnosis I would definitely recommend having a professional out to look at the tree. If you go to http://www.isa-arbor.com/ you can find an ISA Certified Arborist in your area. It sounds to me like you may have some kind of fungal disease causing premature leaf death and drop. Trees are more vulnerable to disease and insect attach if they are unhealthy. Prematurely yellow leaves may indicate a nitrogen deficiency. You also might check your watering regimen. Too much water or poor drainage can cause root disease which can manifest as a nitrogen deficiency. We sell a product called Sick Tree Treatment. It comes in 40 pound bags, each of which treats 1000 square feet. You'll want to treat the entire area under the dripline of the tree (the edge of the canopy). You can order it through our website. We also recommend mulching around the base of the tree. Going as far as the dripline is best, but at least 4-6' to a depth of at least 3" is highly recommended.
I have bare spots throughout my yards. No matter what I do I cannot seem to get any type grass to grow and if I do it quickly dies out. I have a LOT of oak trees. Also my flowers and scrubs will not grow. They don't die but they just sit there not growing or blooming. What can I do to get grass to grow and azelas plants?
10/22/20081:01:27 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Lawn Questions, Plant Questions, Tree Questions
It's hard to diagnose without seeing the property, but with that many oak trees you may have issues with shade. Most turf grasses require full or near full sun to thrive. The heavy shade under oaks is too much for most grass. Soil conditions, such as thin soil or poor drainage, can also affect the ability of grass to survive. These could also be affecting your shrubs and flowers. Always check the sun and water requirements whenever you buy a plant. Inappropriate conditions will keep it from thriving. Azaleas can tolerate some shade, but require acidic soil. Test the ph of your soil. If its too alkaline you can lower it by adding sulphur. Also talk to people at a nursery that stocks locally adapted plants. They'll be able to steer you towards plants that are shade tolerant and appropriate for your location.
I live in the North Texas area and have a blooming crabapple tree in my front yard. It has done fairly well in the last couple of years. I have noticed mushrooms growing on it and spots on the trunk. They are not white but are a lighter color than the bark. Do you think I have a problem?
10/14/200810:17:23 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Anytime you have mushrooms growing on a tree it indicates a serious problem. Mushrooms are the fruiting body of fungi. The main part of the fungus is the mycelium, which is growing inside the wood. Different fungi have different specific effects on a tree, but many of them can seriously weaken or kill a tree. The mushroom is just the exterior sign.Fungi usually attack weak or stressed trees. I would recommend having a certified arborist out to inspect the tree and make treatment recommendations. An application of compost covered by mulch around the base of the tree to a diamater of at least 6' or the dripline (whichever is less) can be very helpful to a tree. We also sell a product called Sick Tree Treatment that is available for order from our website or at many of retailers who carry our products. They may also be able to order it for you. However, avoid any nitrogen fertilizers for the time being, as this can stimulate growth and inhibit the tree's defensive reaction. Make sure the tree is getting sufficient water but be very careful not to overwater. If you are experiencing average rainfall supplemental water shouldn't be necessary. In any event don't water more than once a week, deeply. Many fungal diseases thrive in overly wet conditions.I HAVE A PINE TREE THAT I WAS TOLD HAS BLIGHT, HOW CAN, OR WHAT CAN I DO TO SAVE THE TREE. I APPEARS TO BE BURNING, NEEDLES ARE TURNING TAN COLOR, I KNOW WHEN THEY TAN THE NEEDLES ARE DONE, CAN IS SAVE THE GOOD ONES?
10/3/20082:54:26 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
It's hard to give a specific diagnosis of the problem without being able to examine it in person and knowing the age and species of the tree. There are numerous kinds of blight. In general we recommend applying our Sick Tree Treatment around the tree at a rate of 10 pounds per 1000 square feet and mulching to a depth of 3-4" around the tree to the dripline. These are both very effective ways to bolster the tree's natural disease resistance. For more specific treatment options your best bet is to contact an ISA certified arborist to examine the tree and make recommendations. You can go to http://www.isa-arbor.com/ to find an arborist in your area.I HAVE A PINE TREE THAT I WAS TOLD HAS BLIGHT, HOW CAN, OR WHAT CAN I DO TO SAVE THE TREE. I APPEARS TO BE BURNING, NEEDLES ARE TURNING TAN COLOR, I KNOW WHEN THEY TAN THE NEEDLES ARE DONE, CAN IS SAVE THE GOOD ONES?
10/3/20082:54:11 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
It's hard to give a specific diagnosis of the problem without being able to examine it in person and knowing the age and species of the tree. There are numerous kinds of blight. In general we recommend applying our Sick Tree Treatment around the tree at a rate of 10 pounds per 1000 square feet and mulching to a depth of 3-4" around the tree to the dripline. These are both very effective ways to bolster the tree's natural disease resistance. For more specific treatment options your best bet is to contact an ISA certified arborist to examine the tree and make recommendations. You can go to http://www.isa-arbor.com/ to find an arborist in your area.I'm on an acre, which gets irrigation every two weeks, I have (12) 60 ft Eldarica Pines, I've noticed the pines needles are weak, you pull and they just come right off, when before you had to tug to come off, the tips are brown, and the limbs are starting to droop over when they should be straight out. Maybe too much water. This year I also notice the grass was not very lush and alot of dry spots, but I thought we had more weeds this year. Help, I love my trees. I'm really concerned.
10/3/200812:39:55 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
I hate to say it, but in Texas the typical life span of an Eldarica Pine is 15-20 years. If you want to try and extend their lifespan by a couple of years you could try mulching around the trunk and spreading our Sick Tree Treatment, but at best you're going to keep them alive for another couple of years, and I wouldn't recommend this course of action. Any plant, whether a tree or tomato, has a natural life span, and trying to keep it going beyond that becomes increasingly futile. What I would do is go ahead and plant replacement trees. The Eldaricas will likely be dead by next year, but its possible they might have another year or two in them, and planting replacements now means you won't be without trees in that area. Hope this helps, and I'm sorry about your trees. Let us know if we can offer any further advice.
I have a large cedar tree in my front yard. about 1/3 of the branches are turning brown. What can you suggest?
10/3/200811:17:47 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
In general for trees that are showing signs of poor health we recommend mulching around the tree to a depth of 3"-4" at least 6' out from the tree, preferably as far as the dripline. We sell a product called Sick Tree Treatment that is extremely helpful to trees in stress or decline. You can spread this around the tree to a few feet beyond the dripline.As far as the specific condition affecting your tree, it's hard to diagnose without more information. How are the dead branches distributed in the tree? Is it the tips of all the branches, or a few major branches in one area of the tree? If you send us some pictures, both some closeups of the affected foliage and some wide shots of the whole tree crown we might be able to identify the problem.I mistakenly put "broad leaf" weed killer on my double weeping cherry and red dwarf peach trees. They both lost their leaves and since the peach is sprouting new leaves. The cherry is not, and most of the branches are dead. I have been watering and fertilizing reguraly. Should I cut it back for winter?
9/29/20083:54:31 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
It's ok to prune back any of the dead branches, but I wouldn't take off any of the live growth, as the tree is already suffering from a lack of photosynthesis. Mulching around the base of the tree always helps. I would go 4-5 feet to a depth of 3-4 inches. This will reduce competition from grass and weeds, as well as helping to retain moisture. We have a product called Sick Tree Treatment that's a mix of Volcanite, mature compost and greensand that you can apply around the tree to help it recover.
I know that Red Maple trees are poisoness to horses. I am wanting to plant an Autumn Purple Ash tree in my pasture. Are all red leafed trees poisonous? Specificaly is the Purple Ash poisonous to horses?
9/24/200810:21:19 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Toxicity in trees isn't related to leaf color. It's controlled by a variety of factors, and not all animals respond to toxicity in the same way. I don't know specifically about the Purple Ash, although I've seen horses browse on our Texas Ash trees with no ill effect. You might check with a local arborist for more information.
I know that Red Maple trees are poisoness to horses. I am wanting to plant an Autumn Purple Ash tree in my pasture. Are all red leafed trees poisonous? Specificaly is the Purple Ash poisonous to horses?
9/24/200810:11:36 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Toxicity in trees isn't related to leaf color. It's controlled by a variety of factors, and not all animals respond to toxicity in the same way. I don't know specifically about the Purple Ash, although I've seen horses browse on our Texas Ash trees with no ill effect. You might check with a local arborist for more information.
I have a maple tree in my yard that for the first time in 25 years has started weeping a brown sticky substabce (not maple syrup) all over my deck and yard. It appears to be coming from the upper branches and is making a mess of everything. Need help as I have asticky mess to clean up everyday that is making its way into my house on all who enters shoes. I don't understand why all of sudden this is happening and is there a remedy for it? Thanks you.
9/23/200812:14:59 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Insect Control, Tree Questions
Without being able to directly examine the tree, my guess is that you've had a borer infestation. The borers have probably left the tree, which is producing sap in response to the injury. The sap problem should go away in a few weeks. Borer infestations usually indicate an unhealthy tree, as healthy trees are able to repel them on their own. Long term control of borers is best accomplished by promoting tree health. A good layer of mulch (3"-4") under the tree is the single best thing you can do for tree health. Ample water is important, although its equally important not to overwater, as that can promote fungal problems in the roots which can seriously compromise the health of the tree. If you apply fertilizer make sure to apply a low or no nitrogen organic variety with lots of micronutrients. If the problem persists I would contact a local certified arborist, as they'll be able to better identify exactly what the problem is.
I have big black ants on the tree, inside the tree, I think it is a pecan tree..not sure. But what is the best way to get rid of the ants and will it kill the tree.
7/22/20083:33:26 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Garden-Ville Organic Insecticide, Neem Oil, Tree Questions
Spray an organic insecticide like Garden-Ville's Organic Insecticide or NEEM oil on the tree where the ants are at and coming from. The mixture rate of Organic Insecticide is 6-12 ounces per gallon of water, be sure to spray the entire tree to kill off the ants.
I have a problem with my fruit trees and I really need your help! It started a couple of years ago. After the pedal drop, I noticed that the tips of the branches were dying back, turning brown. The branch near the tip would turn black and if left unchecked, would progress down the tree. I began to cut off the sick portion and it would slow down the progression, but would not go away. This year it has seemed to spread to all my fruit trees and has gotten worse. I have lost one pear tree because of it. I am having to cut more tips and a portion of branches off than ever before. I have been using A Complete Fruit Tree Spray by Binide, but it does not seem to help. Please give me some guidance for I fear I may loose all my fruit trees! Thanks! Roger
7/22/20083:26:31 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Sounds like a fungal disease, you can either spread corn meal and Sick Tree Treatment around the root zone of the trees or try another organic fungal treatment like GP's Garlic Fungicide. If it is a soil borne fungus there is really nothing you can do. After the trees die off you can remove the contaminated soil and bring in fresh soil. You might want to have an arborist come out and look at the trees.
I planted a new Sand Cherry tree for my wife a few days before mothers day 2008, And now the leaves are folding up,Is this mean that the tree is sick? we have had alot of rain. I don't know that much about new trees! Can you help me please
6/3/20084:52:02 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
It sounds to me that the soil might not be draining well enough for the tree, the sandcherry requires a well drained soil and full sun to survive. If you have a heavy clay soil you might want to dig the tree up and amend the soil around it with a sand and compost mixture to break the soil up.Dear Amy: I live in Bastrop - have 4 Chinese Pistacios, ~ about 15 years old. Lichen or moss problem in all 4, but seems to be affecting health of only 2/4, at least presently. The two trees in northwest lawn are spectacular, 2 on Southwest lawn have had chronic problems that weakened them, including construction compaction of soil. After deep aeration/sick tree food couple times in last six years they improved but never cought up to the beauty of the other 2 on NW lawn. Increasing so over last several years the two SW trees have large burden of some type of compact lichen or moss all over the branches - not ball moss, this is light green ochre flecks and lacy/fern like. Is there a treatment I can do myself, or do you know of an arborist that will come to Bastrop? Lezlee Coghlan lezleecog@aol.com; 512-237-9321
5/12/200812:25:19 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Potassium Bicarbonate, Tree Questions
The moss on the trees are normal, they will not hurt the trees, if you would like to get rid of the moss you can spray it with Potassium Bicarbonate at a rate of 2 tablespoons per gallon of water. As for the lack of growth with your tree in the south west corner, the stress put on the tree due to soil compaction was your biggest set back on growth and will continue to show signs. Keep fertilizing and applying compost on the soil around the tree to keep it loose, it may catch up and it may not.
I have a willow tree that was planted to deep and mulched to high. As a result about 12" of the base has lost it's bark completly. The tree is blooming and it's only 2years old. The question is if it gets diseased should I remove the tree now or will it survive if I paint the tree white where it's missing bark . Also where it's a willow and their known to constantly loose limbs to high winds is this another reason to remove it now before it gets to big.Finally,is there something else I can use to bring back the bark or prevent disease.
5/12/200812:14:30 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Tree Questions, Tree Trunk Goop
Remove the mulch away from the tree exposing the bare soil. Water the tree slowly to allow moisture to reach the root system and fertilize with root stimulator. If the tree show signs of stress we have a product called Tree Trunk Goop that you can mix with water and make a paste to spread on the bare parts of the trunk. Removing the tree will be a chore since it is 2 years old and the roots have already spread out pretty far.
I am interested in planting some plum trees in the Austin area. Could you make recommendations based on the habitat and tastiness of the fruit ? Thanks for your time, Carrie
5/12/200812:12:21 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Carrie,You can either plant the Methley or Santa Rosa. Both have sweet fruits and will grow well in the Austin area. When planting in the ground don't forget a good root stimulator like Rocket Fuel to help prevent transplant shock. Also the tree will generally produce fruit within 3-5 years.Three 40' pine trees have lost all needles and bark. Threre is a white powdery substance at the bottom of trunk. Please advise?
5/12/200812:11:50 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sounds like root rot Heterobasidion annosum, I would suggest having an arborist come out and look at the trees to see what they have to say. Fungicides may work but that will depend on the severity of the case.
we have 2 twenty foot peach trees. every year the squirreles and worms eat all of the fruit. What can we do? p.s. they also eat our figs! thankyou ralph
4/8/200810:15:47 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Insect Control, Tree Questions
Ralph,To rid your trees of the worms you can use our Organic Insecticide mixed with water or you can use BT worm killer. Spray the trees thoroughly to prevent the worms. For the squirrels, getting a dog might keep them out of the yard, or Squirrel-X has a product called Get Away that is a mixture of mustard and chile powder that you can spray the trees with. Just be sure and wear a mask and eye protection when applying.Can you force a fruit tree to bloom a second time after the initial bloom does not set? The trees appear healthy and green growth abundant. The plum and nectarine trees bloomed heavily but did not set.
4/8/200810:09:54 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Stephen,You can stress a tree by reducing the amount of water it receives. It does not always work though.I have a ranch in northwest Navarro County. I have several big Post Oaks. On one I recently noticed that the trunk had a piece of bark that looked like it had been striped down. Now it appears that the bark on the entire trunk of the tree has separated from the tree. From searching on the web, I found information on the TFS web site that point to hypoxylon canker . At the moment the only symptom is the bark separating from the tree. If it is hypoxylon canker, would it be better to go ahead and cut the tree down now? It is not in an area where it would fall and damage anything. I really hate to loose this tree, it is beautiful and old. Thanks
2/26/200811:50:14 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Sharon,If you want to save the tree you can have an arborist come out and give you a diagnosis on what is wrong with the tree and ways to remedy the problem, if the tree is salvageable the best remedy is to improve the health of the tree and since the fungal problem is within the tree you can apply our Sick Tree Treatment, horticultural corn meal, and our Soil Food Select 6-2-2 around the drip line of the tree and water them in. But I would recommend having someone come out and take a look at the tree first.I live close to corpus christi,Texas. I had driven south down to the valley and bought some potted citrus trees all about three to four foot tall. They were limes ,lemons and oranges, I put them in back of my truck uncovered and drove back home (3 hour drive) when I got home I off loaded and the next day just about all the leaves have fallen off. I'm sure they were stressed out from the wind hitting them constanly. A few of the trees look like they are dead, the branches have turned brown and have no leaves at all. but the rootstock is still green, is there anything I can do to bring my trees back to life ??
1/16/200810:32:00 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Daniel,When transporting trees you should always lay them down and cover the whole tree with a tarp to keep them from becoming "wind beaten". As for your trees, they are probably just really stressed out. To see if they are still alive you can take a knife and scratch the trunk, if it is green under the bark of the tree then they are salvageable. When you plant them in the ground make sure that you mix compost with the soil you dig out of the hole to ensure a nutrient rich environment for the tree to start growing in. You might also want to put some of our Rocket Fuel on the root ball of each tree to help prevent even more shock to the tree. Water the trees with a liquid fertilizer like our Sea Tea or Medina Hasta Gro 6-12-6 to help the roots along.I have several wateroak trees in my front yard that to me are expressing some type of fungus. The leaves are turning brown in approx. 10 to 30 percent of the tree, which appears to be dead. The limbs are still alive. I bought off the self fungus liquids and sprayed as directed. The still appear to be sick looking. Can you recommend any product that I can try? The Trees are from 5 to 11 years old and 15 to 20 ft. tall. Approx. 8 watertrees total. Thank you, Don Summers
12/19/20079:40:26 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Potassium Bicarbonate, Tree Questions
Don,From what you have described it sounds like you may have oak wilt, http://plantpathology.tamu.edu/Texlab/oakwilt.html this website from Texas A&M University has photos and a short questionnaire that will help determine if you have oak wilt or not. If you do have oak wilt you will need to treat the root system with a systemic fungicide. Two common organic fungicides are horticultural corn meal and potassium bicarbonate, which can be mixed with water and sprayed around the trees. The website link also has an address where you can send off samples of the tree to see if the fungus is in the tree.I planted a small loblolly pine about 30 feet from a large water oak. It is just a few feet outside the drip line of the oak. I staked it with a broom handle, which kept it straight for about a year. We had a very wet year last year and it shot up way above the broom handle. But now it is severly bent away from the oak tree. How can I get it to straighten up and stay straight? Once it grows up through the oak branches, it will get lots of sunshine.
10/25/20071:21:16 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
It is bending that way because it is trying to find the best source of sunlight which it can not get through the branches of the tree. I would recommend you move the loblolly to a different location or the bending is going to become more severe as time goes by.
We have roots from a previously removed pear tree that keep coming back up into the lawn. How can we get rid of them once and for all? It seems that trying to dig up the roots is just not working.
10/9/200710:49:07 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You can try boric acid, but be careful it is powerful stuff.
I have two live oak trees, one in my front yard the other in my back yard. The one in the front is green and beautiful. The tree in my back yard looks like it died - all of the leaves turned brown. When my lawn care service came to inspect the tree (after I asked them to remove it) showed me that the tree is sprouting new green leaves. What is going on with my tree? We had a rainy summer and it gets direct sunlight. Brenda; San Antonio
10/9/200710:39:35 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Soil Questions, Tree Questions
Sounds like you may have soil problems, from what you have described I imagine it is a fungal problem. Try our Sick Tree Treatment and mix it with horticultural corn meal then spread the mixture over the root zone of the tree (basically as far as the branches go out) and water it in. If you do not see any results within a couple of weeks I would recommend you take a sample of the soil from around the tree and send it off for analysis. You could have a deficiency in some area that is causing the tree so much stress. Below is the link to Texas Plant and Soil lab, they are located in Edinburgh and are very good. Let me know how it goes.My neighbor has a Lacebark Elm. While it is a lovely tree it drops the fruit pods in late Sept. She has thousands of tiny trees which sprout in her lawn keeping her grass from thriving. Is there any pre-emergent that can be applied to the lawn to prevent this from happening??
10/9/200710:36:50 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You can try corn gluten meal at a rate of 20# per 1000sq ft, it is available at any Garden-Ville location.
We have a young live oak tree, probably 5 years old. It has bagworms all over it. In June we sprayed a chemical on it. Now, we are finding little round balls all over the leaves. what can we do?
10/9/200710:36:02 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The balls that you are seeing are galls which are caused by tiny, wasp like insects and despite their undesirable appearance, they don't kill or even maim trees. Next time you have a worm infestation try using BT worm killer from Green Light.
I have a purple plum tree that is about 10 years old. This year it dropped most of its leaves. They dried up on the tree than fell. I called the talk radio show on Sat. here in Houston, and they said to add Mycorrhizal Fungi. I have a bottle of it but it says to plant with the bulb of a tree. Since mine is planted already, how do I apply the Fungi material? Will it help bring my tree back. So far, some of the leaves have grown back but the tree looks very bare. It also looks as tho there a buds but nothing has grown out of those buds. Could it have been because of all the rain we have had here in Tx this summer? I would very much like to hear from you. Thank you, Mary McCoy The Woodlands, Tx.
8/21/200710:06:10 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You can "disturb" the soil around the tree and spread and water in the mycorrhizal fungi. The granules will make their way down to the root system of the tree and help to strengthen it. If you think you might have a fungal problem, I would spread and water in horticultural ground cornmeal around the dripline of the tree. If you do not see any results in a couple of weeks, then you can try the mycorrhizal fungi. Since your tree is already ten years old and you did not mention how or if you fertilize it, it sounds as if you may just need to help the roots intake more nutrients by using the microrrhizal fungi. Chemical fertilizers can destroy the beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. And, even if you aren't using chemical fertilizers, you can certainly get contamination from other lawns in your area during excessive rainfalls.
I have 2 large crepe myrtle trees that once were the talk of my neighborhood. For the last several years thay have bloomed very little. The new leaf growth looks good and then turns brown on the edges. I live in San Angelo Texas where we have a fair amount of salt in our water. I have observed other crepe myrtles in my community that look wonderful. Any suggestions?
8/21/20079:56:40 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
There can be several factors that can affect the blooms of your crape myrtles. Has the plant's exposure to the sun been hindered in any way and do you fertilize on a regular basis? You could be lacking important nutrients or you could have a fungus in your soil. Check out our link to testing your soil on "Think Organic" on our website and consider taking a sample of your soil to your local extension office. You can also try using Garden-Ville's Sea Tea 2-3-2 which is a liquid fertilizer blend for flowering plants. Please keep us informed of your progress in resolving this situation.
I have been told that we have a post oak (approx. 45' tall) that has hypoxylon canker is there anything I can do to save this tree or do I need to remove it to keep it from spreading to my other post oaks. Thanks.
7/23/200711:01:45 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Please consult with a local arborist to confirm the likelihood of infestation to other trees. They may already be infected depending on proximity and type. Spores which are produced can be discharged to surrounding trees so it would be important to try to control this problem as soon as possible. As we understand it, this fungus is inside the tree and fungicides cannot control this infection. Please be sure to keep all of your trees from stress or injury to prevent this and other types of disease.
We live in San Antonio and have a fair amount of sucker growth on our live oak trees. Is sucker growth a sign of trouble for our trees? Thanks in advance for your guidance!
7/3/20074:18:06 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Greg,
When you say sucker growth do you mean ball moss? If so you can mix our Potassium Bicarbonate at a rate of 2 tablespoons per gallon of water and spray the moss with high pressure to knock them off. The ball moss is not a sign of trouble for your trees, the moss is a plant that retains moisture and nutrients from the air and not the trees they are attached to.
can vinegar kill pine trees?
6/5/20072:59:01 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The vinegar should not kill the pine trees since they have a woody bark outside. Just about the only way it would kill the tree is if the ground was saturated with the vinegar and the tree took it through the roots.
HI, I HAVE A CREPE MYRTLE TREE THAT IS ABOUT 10 FT TALL AND IS BEAUTIFUL BUT IT IS GETTING TOO LARGE FOR AS CLOSE AS IT IS TO OUR HOUSE AND PECAN TREE. IS IT OK TO TOP OFF THE TREE SO IT DOESN'T GET ANY TALLER? IF SO, HOW MUCH COULD I CUT OFF THE TOP WITHOUT HARMING THE TREE? I THOUGHT ABOUT DIGGING IT UP AND MOVING IT BUT IT WOULD BE QUITE A JOB AND I'M AFRAID OF DAMAGING THE ROOTS. IF I CAN TOP OFF THE CREPE MYRTLE, IS IT OK TO CONTINUE TOPPING IT TO KEEP IT FROM GETTING ANY TALLER? MY HUSBAND WANTS TO CUT IT DOWN AND I WANT TO SAVE IT IF AT ALL POSSIBLE. THANK YOU!
6/5/20072:54:52 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
It is recommended to prune crepe myrtles in the early spring (around March) so that the summer flowers can bloom. If you are going to top off the tree I would not get too drastic with the amount removed. Prune it a little more each year until you find a size you like and keep it the same size.
I recently purchased a home and the front yard is more dirt than grass. I've decided to re-sod the entire yard but want to put down a fertilizer/soil prior to re-sodding. We have a huge tree in the front yard that appears no grass grew around it but I've trimmed it back some and would prefer to have grass all around vs doing a flowerbed . I'm thinking since the roots to the tree were protruding and not enough soil was on the ground for the grass to grow, this is the reason it did not grow. Any auggestions? What kind of soil to put down and whether I should sod the entire yard or do something else around the tree? Your advise is greatly appreciated. I am a single mom so no manly direction here and need some guidance. Thanks. Rose
6/5/20072:54:03 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The grass generally will not grow around a tree due to lack of light, trimming the tree will help with that situation. Leave the roots of the tree exposed, if you cover them up it could cause the tree to develop diseases since the tree expels oxygen from the exposed roots. For a soil around the rest of the area I would use a good soil, compost, and sand mixture. Spread about a 2-3" layer of the soil and either broad cast seed and fertilizer mixed or lay sod squares. If you decide to lay sod you will need to rent a roller to flatten the sod so the roots will be able to take hold. You can plant grass around the base of the tree just make sure you do not cover the exposed roots, St. Augustine is a good shade tolerant grass that will do ok. After the sod is laid and flattened you can go over it with a good organic fertilizer like Garden-Ville's Premium Soil Food 7-2-2 to give the grass an extra boost of energy. You should fertilize and spread compost twice a year (spring and fall) and make sure that the yard is watered regularly (once a week for about 15-20 minutes) so the summer heat does not dry out and kill the grass.
Is it safe for an oak tree to plant a flower bed around the base of it? The roots of my oak trees extend about 4-5 feet from the base of the tree....this is the part of the roots that I can see. I've always heard you can smother a tree by covering the roots.
5/14/200711:26:37 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
No I would not recommend you cover the exposed roots of the tree, when you cover the roots up it makes the tree more susceptible to diseases like root rot. If you must put something around the base of the tree I would recommend you visit your local nursery and pick out a shade tolerant ground cover that you can plant at the level the soil is now.
Our Asian pear trees seem to have a problem. The stems on the fruit are turning black and then it extends onto the fruit itself. We are looking for an organic treatment.
5/8/200712:28:09 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions
Sounds like you may have fire blight or some other type of fungus. Try spreading horticultural corn meal along with our sick tree treatment around the drip line of the tree and water it in. You also might want to take a sample of what is going on to your local nursery and see what they say.
can a barrier be placed away from the trunk of the tree to build a planter made of stone to create a raised garden bed around the tree ...we are trying not to suffocate the roots...having a type of canal so that the tree can breathe and not develop root rot..we understand that it's not healty to have dirt or mulch right up against the trunk, but using some type of retaining wall before the actual garden wall is created...the concept would be like a ring around the trunk that would keep dirt away from the trunk and the dirt enclosed inside the stone planter
5/3/20073:32:55 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
It is really not recommended to make a planter around a tree, studies have shown that the covering of the roots in any way can cause the roots and the tree to develop diseases and die. It is recommended that ground cover be planted at the surface level of the existing soil. If you really want to have a garden at the base of the tree you might want to consider pots or some other type of planter that does not cover the roots in any way.
Can you please give me information for a safe organic spray to use on my apple tree for codling moths? I understand there is a new product out for this which can be used either folier or systemic. It is called Azitrol Oil. But I am beside myself. Last year I put out jugs of vinegar/sweetener/water to lure them, and many did drown in the season. But in the end, my apples still had as much codling moth damage. Thanks very much!
5/3/20073:29:20 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Garden-Ville Organic Insecticide, Tree Questions
You can use the Garden-Ville Organic Insecticide mixed with water to spray the trees to kill off the moths, mix at a rate of 6.5 ounces of Organic Insecticide per 10 gallons of water and spray the trees. You can purchase the Organic Insecticide in 3 pound bottles on our website or if you are in the Austin/San Antonio area you can pick them up at any Garden-Ville for about $23.00 per bottle.
I have a mountain ash that developed a fungus last summer. I sprayed the fungus with isopropal alcohol and that seemed to keep it in check. The tree had very few buds last year and didn't fair well over the summer. It has almost no buds this year except in a few areas. Can I save this tree as it provides shade to our front south facing window?
5/3/20073:23:52 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Potassium Bicarbonate, Tree Questions
Garden-Ville has a product called Potassium Bicarbonate that will kill off the fungus in a couple of applications and will not harm the tree. In addition to the Potassium Bicarbonate you might also want to spread horticultural corn meal around the base of the tree and water it in, the corn meal and the potassium bicarbonate should take care of any fungal problems you have. After the fungus is gone spread compost around the drip line of the tree to build up the health of the tree and make it less susceptible to other diseases. Garden-Ville has a product called Sick Tree Treatment that is great for helping diseased trees along and is available in 40# bags. All products mentioned above are available at any Garden-Ville location or on our website.
Hi, I planted three tress around Easter and one the leaves have fallen off and the other the leaves look yellow. Is this because of two much rain or because I did not plant them correctly? They were Oak and China Berry andl small enough that the bamboo stick was still attached. Thanks, Brian.
5/3/20073:22:01 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Since you have planted the trees how many times have you fertilized? Also, after planting did you add a ring of mulch around the tree? If so is the mulch touching the bark of the tree? If you have not fertilized since planting the tree I would suggest feeding the tree with a good organic fertilizer like Garden-Ville’s Premium Lawn Fertilizer 7-2-2 and follow up with and application of an iron source like Garden-Ville’s Greensand. The rain might have leached out the nutrients in the soil and since trees require the most fertilizer and care when they are starting out that could be the reason for what you are seeing.
As I would like to grow more Angel Trumpet trees in my garden, is there any way that I can regenerate new Angel Trumpet trees form smaller ones growing at the base of my existing mature trees?
4/9/200712:18:35 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The process you are talking about is rooting cuttings, I have pasted a link to a website that will give you a step by step description of the cutting process. If you have any other questions please let me know.we have three large and very beautiful ornamental pear trees. However as it gets hotter as summer approaches they develop fire blight. It happens every year. Is there any thing we can do now to stop this? Thank you for your help.
4/3/20072:51:20 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Martha,Garden-Ville has a product called Sick Tree Treatment which is a mixture of compost, lava sand, and greensand. Trim back the dead leaves and leave the green ones behind, then spread a layer of horticultural corn meal around the drip line of the trees and then spread a layer of the Sick Tree Treatment on top of the corn meal and water it in. The fire blight is a fungus that affects many roses and trees alike, the corn meal along with the Sick Tree Treatment will help to fight the fungus in the ground around the trees. You can pick up both products at any Garden-Ville location. If you have any other questions please let me know.Can Mexican Fan Palms be cut back? Will they re-grow?
4/2/20073:02:25 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Landscape Questions, Plant Questions, Tree Questions
The crown can be trimmed back, but I have heard that if it is not necessary to trim the plant to leave it alone. The dead leaves of the plant contain nutrients that the plant absorbs until depleted then drops the leaves. If you were to trim back the plant it has been said to picture the crown of the plant as the face of a clock and only trim to 3 and 9. You might want to have a certified arborist come out and give you tips on what to do about your particular tree.
Can you give me an idea about trimming/pruning an oak tree. It has been in the ground for three years. I asked Bob Webster about it and after I hung up I remember him saying something about the limbs coming off the trunk would start at about 6 feet. I have limbs the size of quarters and half dollars starting at three feet off the ground. There are a bunch of limbs the size of fingers that go straight up like the trunk. The tree is about 12-13 foot tall and the trunk is about 11 inches in circumference
4/2/20073:01:03 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Frank,Basically what Bob was saying is that he recommends that you start your limbs around 6’. If the limbs on your tree are lower then they would need to be pruned off. Basically a tree will grow to however you want it to look. All you need to do is clean up the tree’s appearance, trim up the lower branches and just make it look how you would want it to look.We are buying a house in west Ft. Worth near Azle and would like to plant an evergreen privacy screen between our neighbors on either side. We would like something that does not have to be maintained but natual and about 6 to 8 feet tall. any suggestions. thanks . R. Reid
3/14/20075:09:09 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Your local growers will be able to recommend something for the area. Everything that I have looked at grows to a height of about 15’ tall unless maintained properly.
I have a four foot wide flower bed that is bordered on one side by my house and on the other side by my front sidewalk. I would like to plant two Italian Cypress trees in this bed to flank my front window. How much room does the rootball of this plant need to prevent damage to the structure and to the sidewalk? Thanks for your help!
3/6/20075:15:30 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
I would not recommend you plant the tree in such a small area. The tree can grow to 6' wide when mature and a good rule of thumb is that the roots will be as wide or wider than the width of the tree. If you would like to have the cypress tree I would recommend that you plant them in pots so you can step them up as the tree grows.
The Texas Forrestry Service has a web page that allows users to select their county, and then go on to specify other parameters if desired such as tree size, color, etc. If you enter Comal County, a list of trees comes up that are apparently recommended for Comal County. The listings include American Elm and Lacebark Elm. I know that Dutch Elm Disease has been hard on American Elms, but the statement is that the disease has not spread to South Texas. When I called several large nursuries, I was told that the only elm worth planting in this area are Cedar Elms. What do you thiink? Are either of these trees suitable for Comal County?
2/27/20075:49:10 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The Texas Forestry Service is through
I have 2 mature pecan trees in my back yard. In the 6 years I've lived here, they have never produced a good pecan. We get lots of blooms and nuts, but when I crack them open, the nut is all black and shriveled. Is this a disease or a pest problem? What can I do about it? Thanks, Jenn
2/27/20073:01:48 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
You might want to try and fertilizer with a high middle number, that is your phosphorus. Also, keep your trees on a regular watering schedule and add some compost around the drip zone of the tree to condition the soil around the root zone. If that does not work you may want to take a sample of the soil around the trees and send it off for analysis.
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