Q. How can I get a successful start of Coulteri Romneyii. I have a healthy 5’ plant, but each root that has been dug up and potted dies. Thanks for your guidance, Linda Finkas – Lakewood, WA A. The Tree or Matilija Poppy (Romneyii coulteri) is a shrubby perennial that has white petals with yellow…
Month: March 2006
Declining Rhododendron
Q. I have a rhododendron. Dark green upon planting. Western exposure. Leaves and new growth turn pale green and droop. Tries to set buds and flower but buds do not mature and flowers are extremely small and die back quickly upon opening. Paul Faro – San Leandro CA A. Sounds to me like you have…
Sapsucker Hole Patterns
Q. My flowering cherry tree has small 1/4″ holes around the trunk spaced about 1″ apart. Have never seen a woodpecker. Any ideas? Tip Thibodaux – Spanaway, WA A. About 2 months ago I answered a question about sapsuckers. This sounds like the same thing. Damage by boring insects is usually not equally spaced around…
Pee Gee Hydrangea and Pussy Willows
Q. I have an 8′ tall Pee Gee in a pot; would it be happier in the ground? How and when to prune? Fertilize? My Black Pussy Willow bush has some catkins; how do I get these to be more plentiful next year? Thanks, Beverley Long – Lakewood, WA A. All anthropomorphizing aside it depends…