AboutKathy Expertise I am able to answer exterior layout and design questions. I have a special talent for creating landscapes for children as well as entertaining. Going beyond the usual landscape design I can also suggest furniture and decor (lit candles, hanging pottery, etc) that will compliment any exterior design.
Color themes, geographical themes (japanese, tuscany, etc) and seasonal designs are also within my realm of expertise. A horticulturalist I am not, but, I can answer just about any question that might require a particular type of plant and whether it will work for you.
Experience Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. During that time I worked for 2 separate landscaping businesses - not design, but, maintaining plant materials. I have nearly 10 years of design and graphic layout in the web design field. I worked for a corporate web design/services company. I am currently a consultant for residential landscape design here in Virginia Beach.
Organizations Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. Secondary education teacher certification. I taught high school earth science for 6 years.
Past/Present Clients All of my clients are local and residential.
Question What time of year can we prune acuba. Ours are growing long stalks We live in S/W NC. Thanks
Answer I'm not a horticulturalist, but, I think I may be able to help you with this question.
Most evergreens can tolerate severe pruning at whatever time of year. However, the best time is late winter to early spring (for moderate to heavy pruning). The least favorable time for Aucuba is June and July. The stalks can be cut back well into the canopy. Or, for general pruning shorten the plant by cutting back to a pair of buds or just above a leaf joint.
Rule of thumb: Prune after the landscape feature of your plant has passed. Not sure if you have a berry producing aucuba. If you do, then a good time to prune is right after the berries have passed (most likely in November).
