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Seeding and Propagation/Questions Answered by Expert Mike Mascio
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Clivia seeds | 2/11/2012 |
| Q: I have recently moved into my old homestead house where i grew up and my mother had planted some ... A: Once the seed pod forms and swells, you can prune them from the plant. Store the pods in a paper bag ... | |
| Plant Lights | 1/5/2012 |
| Q: Is a plant light a grow light? I'm curious because I have got a plant light to help getting seeds ... A: Yes it is. The most common are fluorescent bulbs that emulate the sun's rays. Grow lights should be ... | |
| split-leaf philodendron dying | 12/13/2011 |
| Q: I don't know much about caring for plants, but I really like them, and I recently bought a ... A: The best thing you can do at this point is to leave the plant as is for a week and not water or ... | |
| Philodendron | 12/6/2011 |
| Q: This big leaf philodendron is 30 years old and has been in a large pot that sits on my driveway ... A: Yes you can, but I would not advise transplanting it until spring. The cold weather would cause ... | |
| Potatoes | 11/3/2011 |
| Q: Mike I need some help, for the last 2 years I grew kennebec potatoes.Both years the potatoes were ... A: Matt, based on your description, my guess would either be the soil composition or the harvesting ... | |
| Propagating flats 11 1/4" x 15" x 2 1/2" D | 10/29/2011 |
| Q: I've been propagating pachysandra. Do you know where I can purchase flats of the following size: ... A: Bonnie, there are seed starting supply companies on the net that sell various sized flats. I am ... | |
| Winterize branch cuttings while roots are still small | 10/4/2011 |
| Q: I am trying to grow another tree from my red .made a half way cut in the branch put a small piece of ... A: The secret is to always use a supple branch that is not woody. Always remove all the leaves except ... | |
| Winterize branch cuttings while roots are still small | 10/3/2011 |
| Q: I am trying to grow another tree from my red .made a half way cut in the branch put a small piece of ... A: Linda, the best way to overwinter them is to plant them in peat moss and store them in a very cool ... | |
| Potting Rose of Sharon | 9/27/2011 |
| Q: I live in Ontario Canada, I am moving in Dec and have dug up both my rose of sharons and placed them ... A: My advice is to pot the plants outdoors in a fertile potting soil immediately after removing the ... | |
| Sunflowers | 9/15/2011 |
| Q: I would like to collect seed to save and plant in the fall. My Sun flowers are still standing and ... A: The best way is to cut off the flower heads and store them in a paper bag, preferably in a cool ... | |
| Tulip tree | 7/24/2011 |
| Q: Ive had a tulip tree planted in my garden now for about12/13 years. It was about two foot tall ... A: The problem is definitely a nutrient imbalance in your soil. When annuals are not blooming, ... | |
| Starting trumpet vine seeds | 7/20/2011 |
| Q: Mike, Hello, I would like to know how to start trumpet vine seeds. I purchased these seeds from a ... A: Clint, I apologize for not answering the question in the way you expected. Please keep in mind that ... | |
| north fork pine seeds | 7/18/2011 |
| Q: lets try this again..lol how do I start new plants from the seed of the northfork pine,when do they ... A: It takes years before pine trees produce seed cones. My experience has always been that until the ... | |
| Giant philodendron | 7/12/2011 |
| Q: I have a giant philodendron that is about 2' tall that I would like to transplant to another part of ... A: Joe, you need to dig at least 1'-2' deep and the same diameter as the span of the lowest set of ... | |
| Bismark Palm Seeds | 7/1/2011 |
| Q: I have a Bismark Palm and it is producing a ton of seeds right now. When is the best time to cut ... A: Once the pod forms, remove it and place the entire pod into a brown paper bag to let the seeds ... | |
| Propagating creeping thyme from seeds | 6/12/2011 |
| Q: Good Morning! I've just started planting creeping thyme seeds in starter trays, and they're all ... A: You definitely want to separate them. Clumping them together will cause them to compete for water ... | |
| Unwanted tree growth | 6/5/2011 |
| Q: Mike, I'm not sure my question is in your category, but I don't know where to turn. I have a large ... A: Although you can use a weed killer (one labeled as safe for grass), I have found that by simply ... | |
| Planting trees Mediterrranean | 5/14/2011 |
| Q: I have been told that it is a waste of time to plant seeds in the Northern Mediterranean, but to ... A: When planting young trees, dig a hole slightly deeper than that height of the root ball. Fill the ... | |
| Magnolia Seedlings | 5/6/2011 |
| Q: How do you germinate Magnolia seedlings from a Magnolia pod? A: Once the seed pod swells, prune the pod from the plant. Place the pod in a brown paper bag for three ... | |
| Time to flowering! | 4/26/2011 |
| Q: I have several bulbs of Clivia miniata that a friend gave me, and since January I put them on a ... A: They normally take 4-5 months. I would expect you should see your first flowers sometime in mid-May. ... | |
| Willow Cuttings | 4/10/2011 |
| Q: I plan to cut willows along our stream, dip them in rooting medium (because it helps) and plant them ... A: As long as you retain the top set of leaves, it does not matter if the plant has budded. Although, ... | |
| staghorn ferns | 4/5/2011 |
| Q: what is the best way to propagate a staghorn fern?????? A: Staghorn ferns produce shoots, which are commonly referred to as "pups". Simply cut the shoots at ... | |
| bulbs | 2/8/2011 |
| Q: mike not quite seeds, but i have bulbs yet to plant for spring in this country, the east of england ... A: The bulbs will do just fine, but it is doubtful they will flower their first year. I have ... | |
| Spruce rooting | 1/14/2011 |
| Q: I read Tom's answer regarding the rooting of Spruce cuttings, but I have a different situation. My ... A: I'm afraid not. For a cutting to produce roots, the base must be green and supple. In this case, the ... | |
| Angel Trumpet tree | 12/28/2010 |
| Q: i was given 2 very large planted Angel Trumpet trees because the previous owners didn't have anymore ... A: You definitely want to prune off the discolored branches first. In regard to the rest of the plant, ... | |
| Angel Trumpet tree | 12/26/2010 |
| Q: i was given 2 very large planted Angel Trumpet trees because the previous owners didn't have anymore ... A: Angel Trumpet plants prefer full sun for best growth and heavy blooming. Although growing them next ... | |
| Propagating seeds from pods | 12/12/2010 |
| Q: Whenever I go to the Canary Islands I always seek out the shrub Caesalpinia Gilliesii. I have ... A: The key is to start the seeds indoors and care for them there until all danger of frost passes next ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle seedling | 11/18/2010 |
| Q: I planted crepe seeds from my tree last year and now again this year so far ive gotten 8 seedings ... A: Linda, most bugs on plants are microscopic and cannot be seen without magnification. If the ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle seedling | 11/17/2010 |
| Q: I planted crepe seeds from my tree last year and now again this year so far ive gotten 8 seedings ... A: It definitely sounds like inconsistent watering. Potted plants need to be watered very deeply, and ... | |
| Seeds from 2009 | 11/7/2010 |
| Q: I have some datura seeds from 2009,that I dried and put in small baggies ready to plant for 2010.due ... A: Ester, they should be just fine. With the exception of a select few vegetable seeds (corn, peppers, ... | |
| Stargazer lillies | 11/3/2010 |
| Q: I live in the Philippines and I bought 5 stargazer lilies, the care instructions that I pestered the ... A: Only annual bulbs, such as cannas, should be lifted, split, and stored in a cool location covered by ... | |
| Dodecatheon Seedlings | 10/26/2010 |
| Q: I successfully germinated a DODECATHEON mix (which includes D. meadia, meadia alba, amethystinum ... A: When roots are on the surface, it is usually an indication of shallow watering. That is why I always ... | |
| Propagation | 10/13/2010 |
| Q: My garden is in Gauteng, South Africa - high-veld climate (cold dry winters, warm summers with ... A: Rooting a cutting is by far the best method. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches ... | |
| Sheffeleria tree | 9/24/2010 |
| Q: I am wanting to take clippings from a sheffeleria tree and I don't know where to take the clippings ... A: Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Make sure the stem is not woody. Remove ... | |
| Seed Propagation of Stawberries | 9/18/2010 |
| Q: how and when should i extract seeds from the strawberry fruit and prepare them for planting A: You can extract them anytime after they ripen. Just be sure to let them dry out completely before ... | |
| Growing an aspen tree indoors? | 9/12/2010 |
| Q: I have this really great idea to pot some small aspen trees (purchased from Home Depot) and use them ... A: Unless your living room has windows surrounding the entire room and are completely open to light, ... | |
| Nectarine seeds | 9/10/2010 |
| Q: Nectarine seeds come in a shell, with the actual seed inside. do I wait for the shell to dry and ... A: You will need to stratify the seed shell after it is completely dry. In other words, nick it ... | |
| Solanum | 9/5/2010 |
| Q: Mike! I live in Epping, New Hampshire and have a real problem with groundhogs eating my plants. This ... A: Once the pods swell, it is time to cut the pod before it breaks open on its own. You should then ... | |
| Solanum | 9/3/2010 |
| Q: Mike! I live in Epping, New Hampshire and have a real problem with groundhogs eating my plants. This ... A: This is a hardy annual in cold climates and a semi-hardy perennial in warm climates, which means it ... | |
| Tree sprouts | 9/1/2010 |
| Q: My neighbor cut down two poplar trees just across our lot line. He says he may have the stumps ... A: Unless you kill off the stump, the sprouts will continue. There is a chemical product called Stump ... | |
| Propagating pachysandra and sarcraccoca | 8/29/2010 |
| Q: What is best time of year to propagate pachysandra (variegated) and sarcraccoca. Are moving to ... A: The best time for propagating outdoor plants is six weeks before the first expected frost. For many ... | |
| Peach seeds | 8/24/2010 |
| Q: We had bought organic peaches, dried the seeds out and would like to know what the next step would ... A: Before germination, any dry and warm location is ideal. Most seeds need temperatures between 70F and ... | |
| Peach seeds | 8/22/2010 |
| Q: We had bought organic peaches, dried the seeds out and would like to know what the next step would ... A: At his point in the year, I would recommend starting the seed(s) indoors and raising the seedling in ... | |
| Canna Lillies | 8/9/2010 |
| Q: What are the little bulb-looking things that appear after the canna lilly flower has died? Is that a ... A: Carole, you are correct. It is the seed pod that forms once the bloom has faded. If you plant these ... | |
| Grape Vine Propogation | 7/26/2010 |
| Q: I heard that you can wrap a section of an existing grapevine with a bag containing dirt and the vine ... A: Sorry about that. I misunderstood your original question. You are absolutely correct. The roots ... | |
| Damping Off | 7/24/2010 |
| Q: To prevent or lesson fungal development in an indoor seed bed I have been advised to use Captan as ... A: To prevent damping off of new seedlings, it is not necessary to use chemicals or other products, as ... | |
| Grape Vine Propogation | 7/23/2010 |
| Q: I heard that you can wrap a section of an existing grapevine with a bag containing dirt and the vine ... A: That is correct, but there are a few additional steps. Immediately after pruning a section of new ... | |
| sweet potato plant | 7/20/2010 |
| Q: After the plant has roots and leaves and it's time to put in soil, how much of the actual potoato ... A: The entire potato should be just below the surface. Otherwise, the exposed portion becomes green and ... | |
| baby crepe myrtle | 6/30/2010 |
| Q: I tryrd to grow some crepe myrtles from a tree i had and started last fall I had about 6 plants but ... A: The seedling should be at least 2 foot high before transplanting. Although fall is the best time, ... | |
| Acorns/Oak Trees Sprouting | 6/29/2010 |
| Q: I have two huge oak trees in my front yard. The squirrels have buried hundreds of acorns last fall. ... A: You can apply weed and feed, but an easier solution is to simply mow them a few times. They will pop ... | |
| Why my yucca plant does not have booms | 6/26/2010 |
| Q: I came to this site hoping to get info as to why my very tall over 4 feet yucca plant which has a ... A: There are close to 50 species of yucca plants. Some will bloom once per year, while others will only ... | |
| Rose of sharon | 6/16/2010 |
| Q: I was given 2 cuttings from a rose a sharon tree. I planted them and the were about 1 1/2' tall and ... A: There is a good chance they will recover as long as the stem looks healthy and the roots are strong. ... | |
| Japanese Maple leaves drying or not appearing at all | 6/4/2010 |
| Q: I bought a Bloodgood Japanese Maple tree from a local nursery in Dec. 09 and planted it in the ... A: It sounds like you did all of the right things. However, the symptoms you have described indicate ... | |
| propagation | 6/1/2010 |
| Q: Hey Mike...I have several different types of plants and flowers in my Mississippi yard...which of ... A: Any plant with stems and foliage can be propagated with cuttings. To ensure an exact duplicate of ... | |
| Propagating pachysandra | 5/13/2010 |
| Q: you mention a good potting mix. can you be more specific? peat/perlite good? sand/perlite? thank ... A: A fertile commercial mix is very good. Miracle-gro and several other reputable companies sell mixes ... | |
| Jasmine starts | 5/12/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know how to start new jasmine......I live in Mo. Thanks for your time. A: There are basically two ways to propagate a new plant; seeds or cuttings. Propagating from seed is ... | |
| Milkweed seed planting | 5/11/2010 |
| Q: How deep do I plant the seed or is this one to press in soil no covering? I have collected seed last ... A: Seeds harvested from your own plants should always be dried out for three days and then placed in a ... | |
| Mango seeds | 5/10/2010 |
| Q: i want to plant my mango seeds but i am not sur ehow please tell me i would appreciate it. thank ... A: Starting seeds is actually an easy process, but success only comes through many years of trial and ... | |
| Transplanting Avacado trees | 5/7/2010 |
| Q: I have about four or five avacado trees I need to transplant to another location. They are all about ... A: For a tree this size, you need to dig at least 2' deep and the same diameter as the span of the ... | |
| Rhubarb seeds | 5/2/2010 |
| Q: Can you take the seeds from the rhubarb seed pod and plant them? Are there any tips to follow? A: Seeds grown from your own plants will not necessarily inherit the same traits as the parent plant. ... | |
| Lilacs from Cuttings | 4/30/2010 |
| Q: my husband used tordon to kill trees continually coming up in my flower garden. he was told it would ... A: Unless your husband sprayed the product directly on the bush, it should be safe. In regard to ... | |
| Propagation a lilac tree | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: MY NAME IS TRACIE, I HAVE READ ON HOW TO DO THIS BUT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE DIRECTIONS, & IT IS ... A: Tracie, since pruning is a natural form of maintainance for all trees, you will not do damage if you ... | |
| Avocado propagation | 3/16/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if it is possible or recomended to make an avo cutting that is a new branch from the ... A: Absolutely. Cuttings are by far the easiest and most effective method to propagate a plant, ... | |
| Spider plant propagation | 2/27/2010 |
| Q: I snipped some "babies" off my spider plant and popped them into a bowl of water to root in a ... A: It sounds like they experienced transplant shock, which can be caused by water temperature or the ... | |
| Coral Tree Seed | 2/21/2010 |
| Q: What do you mean by "nick the seed". I put one seed in potting soil in my house and nothing for ... A: This process is called stratification. Stratification can be accomplished by lightly marring the ... | |
| Mystery maple seed propagation | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: I found a sprouted maple seed in my yard that spent the winter shielded from the the weather behind ... A: Carrie, my only concern would be if this is a hybrid maple tree. Most plants sold today are hybrids. ... | |
| Orange tree | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: .. Can you tell me if it is possible to grow a tree from the fruit off an existing tree,Or is it ... A: It is always best to propagate with cuttings. With most of today's plants being hybrids, it is ... | |
| Peppers from seed | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: Mike, I have been experimenting with seeds from Yellow and Orange Bell peppers. I simply removed ... A: Stan, there is less than a 20% chance that you will produce identical peppers to the ones from which ... | |
| Blueberry cuttings | 1/19/2010 |
| Q: can you take a cutting off ofa plant during the winter and clone it so it will have roots by spring? A: Unfortunately, the cutting must be taken from a growing, supple stem. Since plants go dormat in the ... | |
| Dead Schefflera Propagation | 1/17/2010 |
| Q: We have a 35 year-old 8-foot Schefflera here in Maine we call our "marriage plant" because we bought ... A: John, you definitely did the right thing by cutting it back to see if pruning would stimulate new ... | |
| Propagating giant philodendron | 1/12/2010 |
| Q: I Have a giant philodendron growing in my yard in Cocoa, FL. It is getting out of hand! And ... A: You definitely can prune the tree by up to 1/3 without shocking it, but you cannot propagate with a ... | |
| searching for a certain variety of tomato | 12/10/2009 |
| Q: My grandmother grew a tomato that she called "Porter Tomato". It is a small oval shaped tomato that ... A: Martha, you can order Porter tomato seeds through two online companies - Reimer Seed or TomatoFest. ... | |
| Eggplant | 11/25/2009 |
| Q: Background. I have several large eggplant plants. They were beaten-up by spider mites which resolved ... A: I would use a water-soluble fertilizer that has a 1-2-2 ratio, such as 10-20-20. You still need a ... | |
| eggplant | 11/23/2009 |
| Q: Background. I have several large eggplant plants. They were beaten-up by spider mites which resolved ... A: Fred, you are doing all of the right things. Excess nitrogen results in lush foliage but a smaller ... | |
| Grafting | 11/20/2009 |
| Q: I hope this is not out of your expertise. Do you know if grafting or crossing plants is ... A: Grafting is a method of propagation that joins two stems after splicing each individually and ... | |
| crepe myrtle seeds | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: I took some seed pods off of a crepe myrtle tree before they flowered out. I then put them in the ... A: When the pods begin to turn black, that is the sign that the seeds are now viable for planting. You ... | |
| crepe myrtle seeds | 10/29/2009 |
| Q: I took some seed pods off of a crepe myrtle tree before they flowered out. I then put them in the ... A: The pods should be dry and will break open simply by rubbing them lightly between the palms of both ... | |
| Propagation of orange tree | 10/19/2009 |
| Q: I have an orange tree in my house and want to know if I can cut the top off and root it in water. ... A: You must cut off a section that is supple; in other words, it is not woody and can be bent slightly ... | |
| Replanting a split leaf philodendren... | 10/17/2009 |
| Q: My split leaf is huge and lives in a pot in the SE corner or our sunroom and it loves it there. It ... A: I know this sounds severe, but you need to remove the plant from the pot, take the plant outdoors, ... | |
| Peach seeds | 9/24/2009 |
| Q: My seed also came from fresh fruit. I never had a dormant time. Can I still grow this,or is it to ... A: Joni, it is very rare for a seed to germinate without some period of dormancy. The dormant period ... | |
| split leaf philodendren transplanting | 9/23/2009 |
| Q: We have a huge split leaf philodendren in our southern sunroom that needs to be transplanted. There ... A: Tricia, the best time to divide perennials is in the early fall. That gives the plants sufficient ... | |
| Vinca minor seeds | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: Is it possible to harvest seeds from the annual vinca minor flowers, and if so, how do I do it? A: To harvest seed, you must let the spent flowers die off naturally and form a small seed pod. Once ... | |
| is it good time to do cuttings? | 9/9/2009 |
| Q: is it ok to start planting cuttings now or must wait till spring? and can i use willow springs to ... A: Cuttings can be taken at any time of the year. However, you should not transplant them outdoors ... | |
| Acacia Propagating | 9/8/2009 |
| Q: can i propagate acacias and poincianas by cuttings or should it be by seeds? and how? A: I would definitely suggest propagation with cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least ... | |
| pumpkins | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: Last year we threw out a pumkin in a garden area on the n,e. side of the house, Many small plants ... A: There definitely should be more than one. The problem is the female blossoms were not fully ... | |
| Wintering organic apple seedlings | 8/13/2009 |
| Q: My second grade class discovered sprouting seeds in our organic apples, so we planted them and 3 ... A: You can certainly overwinter the seedling in your basement. Leaving it in the dark for a few months ... | |
| Propagating catalpa cuttings | 8/10/2009 |
| Q: My neighbor and I have been trying to get our Catalpa shoots to root for quite some time and have ... A: Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip ... | |
| Non-blooming pear tree | 7/29/2009 |
| Q: Sir I have two pear trees of unknown variety.They have not bloomed for two years.This spring one ... A: Fruit trees must be pruned every fall to stimulate blossoms the next spring. I cut back my branches ... | |
| Dwarf orange tree | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: We live in Tucson, AZ and have a dwarf orange tree which has produced one orange in the past two ... A: Jan, it does sound like an experimental hybrid, where two different plants were grafted. That being ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle Propagation | 7/22/2009 |
| Q: Can (and how could I) propagate a crepe myrtle from "runners" that are coming up several feet away ... A: There are actually two methods from which you can choose. The first one is to root the runner right ... | |
| Propagation | 7/20/2009 |
| Q: I'm a novice at propagation so I wanted to ask you a few questions: 1)How can I propagate a hibiscus ... A: Propagation from cuttings is the same for all plants. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six ... | |
| Apple tree seedling | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: My 10 year old son bit into his apple and found that one of the seedlings had sprouted inside of the ... A: I would start it in a 10" pot using a fertile potting soil. Once the plant establishes a strong root ... | |
| Snow ball bush | 7/7/2009 |
| Q: We have just moved and there is a very large snow ball bush in our yard. It is just full of blooms ... A: Connie, if there are blooms, there is nothing wrong with the plant. It most likely is a nutrient ... | |
| Jasmine Propagation | 7/5/2009 |
| Q: is it ok if i can propagate jasmine without any root hormone? is honey advisable to use while ... A: Cuttings will root without a rooting compound. It's just that it helps expedite the rooting and ... | |
| White Nectarine and White Peach Pit's | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: My husband just saved and would like to plant the White Peach and White Nectarine Pit's but want's ... A: Carolyn, it's actually a very simple process. Pick out and cut a tender shoot that is at least six ... | |
| White Nectarine and White Peach Pit's | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: My husband just saved and would like to plant the White Peach and White Nectarine Pit's but want's ... A: You would have to let the pit completely dry out and them store it in a cool place for a few months ... | |
| Orange leaves on Princess Plants | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: All my princess plants are getting orange leaves this year. This is the first year this has ... A: Frank, this is usually an indication of a lack of iron in the soil. You can add an iron supplement ... | |
| Snow Ball Bush | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: My snowball is very healthy looking, but it didn't bloom this year. why? A: The primary reason a perennial will not bloom is damage done to the buds due to a late frost. The ... | |
| Removing a Tree | 5/30/2009 |
| Q: We have a tree right by our door that is around 14-16 feet high. I wish I could tell you what kind ... A: Mark, either way, the tree needs to be removed. The normal process is to cut it down at the base, ... | |
| Magnolia bush | 5/20/2009 |
| Q: I live in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. My neighbor gave me a cut branch of his magnolia bush that ... A: Monty, simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. ... | |
| Columbines | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: I have a few columbines that have been growing successfully for several years in the front yard. I ... A: It sounds like the plants are being infested by slugs. They start out by eating the foliage, and ... | |
| snowball bush | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: I have a snowball bush that the foliage is beautiful, but it makes no snowball. I have had the bush ... A: Kim, keep in mind that soil conditions are extremely important for flowering plants to bloom ... | |
| Apple seed | 4/25/2009 |
| Q: Needing some answers.... My child decided she wanted to see if we could get an apple seed to grow ... A: You will need to transplant the seedling into a pot with good fertile potting soil. I would start ... | |
| nectarine | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: i have a nectarine tree grown from seed 10 years ago but as yet no flowers and no fruit why A: Nicki, if it was grown from a seed taken from a hybrid plant, there is a high probability that it ... | |
| Avocado trees frozen | 4/20/2009 |
| Q: I have four trees, two Monroe and two Lula. They were selected for cold hardiness. They have been in ... A: Although certain varieties of avocados have been known to survive temperatures as low as 20F, most ... | |
| propagating blueberries in New Hampshire | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: Hey mike, I got 1200 blueberry bushes in new hampshire and this is the first year I'm going to ... A: Anthony, if propagating from cuttings, a heat pad is not necessary. Even with seeds, as long as the ... | |
| What time of year do you start growing an apple tree | 4/4/2009 |
| Q: My younger sister ate an apple a few days ago and she kept the seeds. She keeps asking to plant them ... A: Daniella, seeds should be sown in early spring. Now would be the prefect time for your apple seeds. ... | |
| Planting in Sphagnum Moss | 4/3/2009 |
| Q: I purchased 4 12inch sphagnum globes to plant and hang on my porch. . Will small begonias thrive in ... A: Janet, the plants will do just fine. Sphagnum moss is an organic medium which will provide nutrients ... | |
| Magnolia propagation | 4/2/2009 |
| Q: I need to know when and how to root cuttings from the Magnolia(Southern) A: Cuttings can be taken at any time of the year, as long as there is foliage on the plant. Simply cut ... | |
| Lychee seed | 4/1/2009 |
| Q: my mum has 2 lychee seeds in a pot on the window ledge (west facing), they are sprouting in very ... A: You will need to transplant each of them to 6" pots filled with potting soil. If you are growing ... | |
| Plants drying out | 3/29/2009 |
| Q: 1. I had lavender plant and thyme plant in pots. The leaves first dried out, turned dark brown. I ... A: Your problem was either related to improper watering or the plants contracted a disease. We all ... | |
| Growing catnip indoors | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: I plan on growing 3-5 catnip plants in my house in our sun room...I just can't find anything ... A: You definitely want to thin the plants to one per container. A 4" pot is fine until the plant ... | |
| Nectarine Seed | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: do I need to take the seed out off the shell? before planting?? joseph A: Soak the seed in the shell for six hours in tepid water. This will soften the shell and enable you ... | |
| Lychee Tree; Fertilizer | 2/20/2009 |
| Q: I am in central FLorida, My Lychee tree, which is planted in a very large pot, in a sunny location, ... A: Nina, once the tree buds, it is a good time to apply the first application of fertilizer. My advice ... | |
| Replanting english ivy | 2/16/2009 |
| Q: can I replant english ivy by just sticking pieces in the ground? its hard to find roots they are so ... A: Jay, by planting cuttings directly in the ground, the probability for their survival is very low. ... | |
| Propagating Texas Rose Pomegranate | 2/10/2009 |
| Q: Mike, I'm a student at a career development center learning various greenhouse operations and was ... A: Spencer, cuttings are without a doubt the easiest method to propagate an existing plant. Simply cut ... | |
| Pear Tree Cuttings | 1/29/2009 |
| Q: I have an old pear tree in the garden. We are now moving and I would like to grow a pear tree in ... A: Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid using cuttings that are woody; ... | |
| Sweet potatoes | 1/19/2009 |
| Q: I have nurtured a sweet potato so that it now has sprouts from one end. How do I change them into ... A: Edward, although you can plant sweet potatoes whole, I recommend cutting them into pieces (slips), ... | |
| Propagating a dogwood tree from cutting | 1/12/2009 |
| Q: I have a 15-20 year old dogwood tree that unfortunately has to be cut down to build an addition. We ... A: Kristy, you can only propagate from cuttings that are green and supple. Woody cuttings will not ... | |
| Propagating day lillies from seed. | 1/11/2009 |
| Q: I live in Perth Western Aust. and would like to know how to propagate day lillies from seeds and ... A: Propagating from seed is a relatively easy process. Once the flowers are spent, they will form seed ... | |
| Blueberry Propagation | 1/3/2009 |
| Q: I live just outside charlotte, nc. We have several blueberry bushes planted in a row. Some are ... A: Jean, you can definitely propagate blueberries by transplanting new shoots. Just be sure to pick the ... | |
| Transitioning Plants Outdoors | 1/2/2009 |
| Q: I intend to start my vegetable from scratch this year and I have a couple of questions about getting ... A: Corey, I always start my plants indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. This allows enough ... | |
| trees | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: Trees growing in Kansas receive a different amount of sunlight than trees in Mexico why? A: Aisha, there are many factors that determine the amount of sun required and received in different ... | |
| azaleas | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: it has been healthy and bloomed prolifically several times since then. About 2 months ago I noticed ... A: Sara, the easiest method would be to propagate with a cutting. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at ... | |
| Staghorn Ferns; Dividing | 11/28/2008 |
| Q: I have a large staghorn fern in my front yard I would like to split up into several smaller ones. ... A: Sam, the only way to split a plant is to divide the root ball. As with most perennials, you need to ... | |
| Persimmon Seeds | 11/25/2008 |
| Q: I read your instructions on planting persimmon seeds. I have collected and washed quite a few ... A: The seeds must dry completely. This usually takes 3-5 days. They also have to go through a dormant ... | |
| Yuka | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: I'be bought two yuka's - both for indoors. however the first one died very quickly and the second ... A: Yuka definitely prefer dry soil. My personal recommendation is to water deeply once every 21 days, ... | |
| Frost Protection | 11/13/2008 |
| Q: My seed pods are not ready to be pick. Got bad weather coming in. In cental Tx. How can I save these ... A: Dixie, the seed pods do need to fully mature before picking, otherwise they will not be viable. The ... | |
| Tomato Seeds | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: help,i need to turn or dry out the tomatoe to get the seed so i can start new plants next spring.my ... A: Mary, you need to remove the seeds from the tomatoes. Wash them in cool water and set them aside on ... | |
| Planting Avocoda Seed | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: I have an Haas avocado seed which has sprouted in water. How and when do I plant it in soil. Does ... A: Joan, you should wait until spring to plant the seedling outdoors, but given your location, you can ... | |
| Lime seeds | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: What is the best way to get Lime seeds to grow, I have tried several ways and failed. A: The key is simulating a dormancy period. I always allow my seeds to dry out completely before ... | |
| Nectarine Seed Growing | 10/4/2008 |
| Q: What is the true answer regarding growing nectarines from seed. I am new at the vegetable gardening ... A: They will survive, and if kept for properly, will grow into tree seedlings. One word of caution. ... | |
| Propagation; grapevines | 10/2/2008 |
| Q: Or is it just a better way. Will it work for grapevine cuttings as well. Thanks Bev Ferreira ... A: You can still successfully propagate a plant without rooting powder, However, this product ... | |
| Cuttings | 9/30/2008 |
| Q: I live in Wales in the UK. I have some very pretty Sutera trailing white plants which I would like ... A: Brenda, simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of ... | |
| Plants and Butterflies | 9/26/2008 |
| Q: I been growing two types of flowers and three types of fruit/veggies in my front yard strawberries, ... A: Michelle, a fake plant will not attract them. The best annuals for butterflies are wildflowers, ... | |
| Persimmon Trees; Small Fruit | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a lot of "wild" persimmon trees (Their fruit smells like the persimmons that I remember of ... A: Dee, the most effective way to encourage larger fruit is by thinning. Fruit trees expend all of ... | |
| Rubber Tree Plant | 9/16/2008 |
| Q: I have a rubber tree plant that was not doing so well. It had about 4 leaves on it but it was ... A: Karen, the best and easiest way to propagate this tree is with cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot ... | |
| Transplanting Mature Tree | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: We have a mature rowan tree in our garden in the Isle of Man, British Isles, which we would like to ... A: Brenda, it is extremely difficult to move a mature tree without either damaging it to a point that ... | |
| seed-saving & cross-pollination | 9/3/2008 |
| Q: I'm wanting to collect seeds from my garden. I want to know what plants cross-pollinate? I know we ... A: Erin, one word of caution when collecting seeds for propagation. The chance of duplicating them is ... | |
| Dry Seeds | 8/29/2008 |
| Q: I live in MO. My 6 yr old niece brought me some seeds and wanted me to see if I could grow them ... A: Kim, they may be too dry or too old. You did the right thing by placing them in a paper towel and ... | |
| Rose of sharon; Propagation | 8/21/2008 |
| Q: she put them in the freezer til i could get them, i recently just got them and planted them in a ... A: Holly, you are doing all the right things. As long as you keep the soil moist, they will eventually ... | |
| trimming a mimosa tree | 8/20/2008 |
| Q: I have a large mimosa tree (approx. 20'h x 20'w) that needs a serious pruning as it's size is ... A: The best time to prune trees is early fall, late winter, or early spring. As some gardeners like to ... | |
| apple propagation | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: I have a 30 year old apple tree that is about to fall. I would like to propagate it by seed and ... A: Richard, cuttings are by far your best option. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches ... | |
| Nectarine planting | 8/16/2008 |
| Q: I read the answer about how to grow from seed but I want to know if there is any special way to put ... A: Given your area of the country, you will have to grow the seedling indoors over the winter. You can ... | |
| Seed Companies | 8/15/2008 |
| Q: I want to start sowing landscaping plants(shrubs & flowers) in my nursery for my yard. Can you ... A: I purchase all of my seeds from the following sources: http://www.parkseed.com ... | |
| Datura & Brugsmania; not blooming | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: I have about 40 different types.They were about 9 inches tall when I planted them outside in new ... A: Janice, at this time a soil test is warranted. Even though you are applying a water-soluble ... | |
| Crape Mrytel | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: I live in Palm Beach county Florida. Our crape mrytal trees and bushes do great. My question is I ... A: Rannah, it's not only possible, it is very simple to do. To replicate the exact genetic traits of ... | |
| Propagating; Division | 7/28/2008 |
| Q: How can I separate a large Russian Sage plant? It is beautiful and I'd like to plant more of it ... A: Julie, the only way is to divide the root ball. As with most perennials, you need to take a spade ... | |
| nectarines | 7/23/2008 |
| Q: When the plant starts to grow, how tall will it get and can I keep it indoors for its life span. ... A: Nectarine trees can grow anywhere from 15 feet to 30 feet high, depending on the variety. They can ... | |
| Ageopodium (varigated Bishop's Weed) | 7/22/2008 |
| Q: I have a two year old bed of this ground cover that has 18" flower stalks. The white flowers are ... A: Yes. Allow the pods to turn brown and dry out. You then want to store the seeds by placing them in a ... | |
| Wisteria seed pods | 6/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a mature Wisteria vine (25 years old) that has dozens and dozens of seed pods hanging down ... A: On vines and flowering bushes, I leave the pods on. As you stated, it makes very little difference, ... | |
| Propagation - Crepe Myrtles | 6/29/2008 |
| Q: can you propagate the sucklings off of the bottom of the crape myrtle trees. We had someone cut one ... A: Karen, cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagating myrtle. Simply cut a tender ... | |
| Bird of paradise | 6/28/2008 |
| Q: i have got some bird of paradise seeds from spain. they are dried ones. i will soak them for 24 ... A: Yes it is. This process is called stratification. Stratification can be accomplished by nicking the ... | |
| Lilac Bushes | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: I live in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, a transplant from the state of Ohio. I have asked many people, ... A: Carol, lilac bushes will only grow in zones 3-7 in the United States. The lower number represents ... | |
| Lilacs; Propagation | 6/15/2008 |
| Q: HOW DO I PROPOGATE FROM THE BUSH ALREADY PLANTED IN GARDEN I HAVE TRIED SEVERAL DIFFIRENT WAYS WHAT ... A: Sheila, the easiest method is by using cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six ... | |
| Daylillies | 6/13/2008 |
| Q: after blooming the first time, my daylillies get seed pods on them instead of new flower buds. do I ... A: Peggy, you are correct. You need to cut off the seed pods before they fully develop. Leaving them on ... | |
| Germinating sealing wax palms | 6/1/2008 |
| Q: I am planning on growing red sealing wax palms[cyrtostachys renda]. Our Hawaiian climate is great ... A: Camille, there are several ways to speed germination of certain seeds. The most common is soaking ... | |
| Tomato Suckers | 5/31/2008 |
| Q: I have been told if I remove the suckers off of a tomato plant and stick it in a potting mix that it ... A: Tammy, this is true. Suckers are actually new plants that grow beneath the root nodule of the main ... | |
| Clivia seeds | 5/27/2008 |
| Q: How long should one leave the seeds from the clivia plant, on after the blooms fall off? A: Once the seed pod swells, prune the pod from the plant. Place the pod in a brown paper bag for three ... | |
| Propagating Bougainvilleas | 5/19/2008 |
| Q: I have several large ground-planted bougainvilleas and some in pots. I would like to start some ... A: Peggy, propagation by cuttings is the preferred choice. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at ... | |
| Beer (Not kidding!) | 5/6/2008 |
| Q: A friend told me to pour a warm can of beer into all recently transplanted plants. He said, it would ... A: Christopher, this practice was made popular by Jerry Baker. You may have seen his ads on PBS ... | |
| Corn | 5/4/2008 |
| Q: I have finished planting my garden and my question is, after planting corn, about how long does it ... A: Sammy, corn normally takes between 14 and 21 days to germinate. However, this can be affected by a ... | |
| Propagating QuanZen Cherry | 5/3/2008 |
| Q: I was successful starting roots on a branch of a very old quanzen Cherry by cutting the outer bark ... A: Richard, you can transplant the sapling approximately 8 weeks after you first propagated. A sure ... | |
| Wisteria | 4/19/2008 |
| Q: How do i get this plant to start in my yard? But I do not want it to take over. A: Based on the information you've provided, I'm not sure if you're asking how to start from seed or a ... | |
| Propagation of lilac tree | 4/17/2008 |
| Q: i want to clip a branch from my lilac tree and give to a friend. when should i do it and how do i ... A: Bob, you can keep in in water or pot it. Personally, I would pot the cutting and explain to your ... | |
| Starting a blueberry bush | 4/16/2008 |
| Q: can you start a blueberry bush from an established bush? If so how & when is the best way/time to do ... A: Jackie, the easiest method is with cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches ... | |
| Thinning tomato seedlings | 4/14/2008 |
| Q: I've grown a number of tomato seedlings using Jiffy-7 peat pellets, and now it is time to transplant ... A: Unfortunately you cannot grow both together. Tomatoes need to be planted 2 feet apart. Any closer, ... | |
| Norfolk Island Pine | 4/2/2008 |
| Q: I have just inherited a 6 foot Norfolk Pine with 3 trunks which are likely connected under the dirt. ... A: Dianne, propagation from cuttings only works with soft stems, not woody growth. Therefore, you ... | |
| Rooting quince | 4/1/2008 |
| Q: I want to know if you can root a piece of the quince bush, my neighbor has a peach colored one, and ... A: Shana, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent ... | |
| Snowball bush | 3/31/2008 |
| Q: I was given what they call a snowball bush? as a gift for the passing away of my father's father. I ... A: Snowball bushes need a loamy soil with good drainage and a neutral ph level of 7.0. They also need ... | |
| Bamboo..... | 3/28/2008 |
| Q: I've taken on the task of trying to grow bamboo. I have purchsed a few seeds and the instructions ... A: The only way to keep the soil at a consistent temperature is with heating mats. These mats are sized ... | |
| Oak trees | 3/21/2008 |
| Q: We collect and plant alot of acorns each year as a hobbie, im am just wondering if you could tell me ... A: They just need a cool dry location to stay viable. You can store them in straw in your basement or ... | |
| Maple seed propagation | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I have a maple tree that I have saved the seeds from - I do not know what type of maple it is ... A: Seeds need a simulated dormant period of at least 3 months. So depending on when you harvested the ... | |
| Propagating Yucca | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: I live in Sydney Australia and have a Yucca growing in a pot - it is growing extremely well in ... A: Sally, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent ... | |
| Planting Schedule | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: NC - and I am anxious to get my baby plants into the soil. Is it too early to start? I am planting ... A: Crystal, I am attaching two websites that will give you planting times for every vegetable and a ... | |
| Apricot seedlings | 3/6/2008 |
| Q: Mike! I live in Northern California and I grow few apricot seedlings. They are about 2 month old, ... A: Jess, when seedlings become spindly or the stems turn brown, it is either a sign of a fungus disease ... | |
| Growing Nectarines | 3/4/2008 |
| Q: i dont know alot about growing from seed, but i am keen to grow a necarine tree. can i grow it from ... A: Matt, there are several reasons why I would not recommend growing a nectarine tree from seed. First ... | |
| Rooting Nightblooming and Lakewood Jasmines | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: I have been working on my Moms yard for 4 years and am now working on ours. I cut some branches ... A: Lisa, unfortunately, it is too late. For some reason, the method you are using is very inconsistent. ... | |
| Propogation of Pine Tree | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I enjoy your site. It is very informative. I have a question. We cut our own Christmas tree this ... A: Irma, my suggestion would be to propagate with cuttings. Cut a tender shoot that is at least six ... | |
| Non Flowering Hibiscus | 2/6/2008 |
| Q: my Wife has a hibiscus that is about 15 - 20 years old. It's 4 ft. tall in a 12"x 12" round ... A: David, if the plant is getting sufficient sunlight, the most likely problems are excess water ... | |
| Plant lights | 12/26/2007 |
| Q: First off, can you use any lights as long as they are flourescent and at least 40+ watts? For ex: ... A: Dustin, seedlings need to be in simulated sunshine for at least 14 hours per day. They also need a ... | |
| Stratification | 12/24/2007 |
| Q: i have just been reading this: Jo, the harder the seed, the longer it takes to germinate. To ... A: As I mentioned in my original response, stratification is one of several processes used to hasten ... | |
| Rubbertree Propogation | 12/22/2007 |
| Q: How do you propagate a rubber tree? I have a big one and I would like to take starts from it and ... A: Debbie, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent ... | |
| Propagating honeysuckle | 12/17/2007 |
| Q: How can I propagate honeysuckle from existing honeysuckle? I want to start a wildlife hedge to ... A: Marcus, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent ... | |
| Propagating Hydrangeas | 11/17/2007 |
| Q: My question is about propogating hydrangeas. I live in western washington State and i really enjoy ... A: A tender shoot is a cutting with a stem that is still soft and not woody. Noches do not matter. A ... | |
| Wisteria Seed Progagation | 11/15/2007 |
| Q: I read and answer about wisteria propagation, but I am confused on one thing. Do I collect the ... A: Once the pods swell, it is time to cut the pod before it pops. You should then place the pods in a ... | |
| Philodendron Propagating | 11/14/2007 |
| Q: I have a philodendron selloum plant and want to know how to make more pklants from the cuttings,, or ... A: Janet, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent ... | |
| Propagating Hydrangeas | 11/12/2007 |
| Q: My question is about propogating hydrangeas. I live in western washington State and i really enjoy ... A: Lilly, you can propagate at any time. However, since you would be starting very early relative to ... | |
| Apple Seeds | 11/9/2007 |
| Q: how should i store me apple seeds? And how long can i keep them? A: Robin, seeds need a dormancy period of 3 to 6 months to germinate. They should be kept in a dry ... | |
| Leaf Miners on Columbine | 11/7/2007 |
| Q: I have columbine growing in the shade under a large flowering cherry and they do fairly well. This ... A: Chuck, leaf miners can be controlled by using either pyrethrum or rotenone. Both are organic ... | |
| Bougainvillias | 11/6/2007 |
| Q: I have a friend that has a couple of bougainvillias that she purchased at the beginning of this ... A: Keith, you can certainly propagate now. This will give the plants a head start when they are ... | |
| Honeysuckle | 11/5/2007 |
| Q: how do you transplant honeysuckle? it grows wild here and i would love to move some...thanks A: Cheryl, all you need do is to split the plant by dividing it with a spade. Try to maintain as much ... | |
| Propagating day lillies from seed | 11/3/2007 |
| Q: I have collected some day lily seeds and have had them in the refrigerator for 2 months. Is it too ... A: Mary, I would start them indoors and then transplant them in the spring. It is always risky sowing ... | |
| Propagating Lavender | 11/2/2007 |
| Q: Greetings Mike! I found your string on propagating lavender plants and the information was very ... A: You can propagate at any time. However, since you would be starting very early, you would need to ... | |
| Canna Lilies; Propagation | 10/16/2007 |
| Q: Can you take the seed from the dead flowers and plant them, or do they have to be grow from a bulb ? A: Canna can be propagated from seed, but it takes three years before they form a bulb large enough to ... | |
| Hybiscus Propogation | 10/13/2007 |
| Q: Aloha, Can hybiscus be propogated with your young cuttings dipped in rooting compound and planted ... A: Lynn, propagation by cuttings is the preferred choice. It guarantees that you will get the same ... | |
| cock's comb | 10/11/2007 |
| Q: I have seeds from a Cock's Comb or Celiosa?? plant, and someone told me to sow the seeds in the ... A: Sheila, celosia will reseed itself every fall by dropping seed. It then lies dormant over the winter ... | |
| Hummingbird Vine | 9/28/2007 |
| Q: On my Hummingbird Vine, on the runners I have noticed what looks like roots starting. If these are ... A: Many vining plants produce roots along the vines. These will root and produce new plants if placed ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle; Propagation | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: How does one propagate Crepe Myrtle from seeds? I live in central Texas. Thanks, Kirby A: Kirby, you would need to wait until the plant produces seed pods, cut the seed pods and place them ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle Seeds | 9/26/2007 |
| Q: central Florida; this is what i have done.waited for the crepe mettle seed pods to start to open and ... A: It all depends on the viability of the seed. I would plant several of the seeds to improve the odds. ... | |
| Mimosa Tree; Propagation | 9/7/2007 |
| Q: I live in northwest New Mexico. I have a mimosa tree in the yard in a very bad location, but it is ... A: Debra, I would not attempt to start another tree from seed. It is a very long process that includes ... | |
| Rose of Sharon; Not Blooming | 9/4/2007 |
| Q: Our rose of sharon has hundreds of buds with pink showing but do not open up to a flower. This is ... A: When bushes drop their buds prematurely or do not flower as abundantly as advertised, it is usually ... | |
| Propagating Crapes | 9/3/2007 |
| Q: do you water these seedlings during the first two weeks while covered with plastic or not other than ... A: Lisa, if the surface of the soil begins to look dry, or you notice that there is little or no ... | |
| Coastal Redwood Propagating | 8/28/2007 |
| Q: We did the cutting procedure exactly as you advised with the plastic covering, etc., but very ... A: The soil is most likely to wet. It should be damp to the touch, but not soaked. You can place a slit ... | |
| Japanese Oriental Peony Propagation | 8/16/2007 |
| Q: I have a large Japanese Peony which I would like to divide as it is getting too big for the area in ... A: Barbara, the best time to divide pernenials is in the early fall. That gives the plants sufficient ... | |
| Lavender Bush | 8/15/2007 |
| Q: I have a Lavender plant/bush that needed trimming back got to big. I would like to know if I should ... A: Mary, make sure it is planted in fertile soil comprised of organic materials such as peat moss, aged ... | |
| Rose of Sharon Buse | 8/13/2007 |
| Q: I have a rose of sharon bush that was just about dead. I put it in a vase of water with some plant ... A: Judy, I would first transplant it into a 12" container filled with a fertile potting mix. Allow it ... | |
| Coleus Seeds | 8/11/2007 |
| Q: I would like to collect seeds from a Coleus plant I have but don't know where to begin. Where are ... A: Dave, you must allow the coleus to flower and then form a small seed pod(s) after the flower is ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle; Propagation | 7/28/2007 |
| Q: how does one propagate crepe myrtle? A: Margie, cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagating myrtle. Simply cut a tender ... | |
| Avocado | 7/25/2007 |
| Q: My son wants to propogate an avocado pip. I know it should be 1/4 in a glass of water with ... A: Derek, the point should be up and the root down. It should be noted, however, that growing ... | |
| Rhubarb | 7/20/2007 |
| Q: when would i be able to transplant early rhubarb...... A: Rhubarb is one of only several vegetable plants that are considered to be perennials. In most areas ... | |
| Mums; Pruning | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: I have never trimmed my mums....this past year I moved them thinking they weren't getting enough ... A: Pam, pinching is just another term for pruning or deadheading. Pruning is cutting the plant back by ... | |
| Kitty Litter in Soil? | 7/18/2007 |
| Q: I think I gave myself Montezuma's Revenge & ended up in hospital with a swollen appendix that the ... A: Marie, I personally would not eat or cook with anything grown in that patch this year. To ensure ... | |
| Kitty Litter in Soil? | 7/17/2007 |
| Q: I think I gave myself Montezuma's Revenge & ended up in hospital with a swollen appendix that the ... A: Absolutley. Used kitty litter and feces contain parsites and bacteria that are very harmful to ... | |
| Celosia; Insects | 7/11/2007 |
| Q: I live in Dearborn, Michigan. My kimono celosia plants started out very brightly colored and ... A: Kimberly, the plants have definitely been infested with some type of insect. Without seeing the ... | |
| Bouganvilla; Propagation | 7/8/2007 |
| Q: How can I propagate a bougainvillea? My mother passed away and we are selling her home. I would like ... A: Kathy, propagation by cuttings is the preferred choice. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least ... | |
| Easter Lilies | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: After Easter each year I plant my easter lilies in my garden. When they come up again in following ... A: David, most lillies grown today are hybrids, the offspring of two completely different varieties ... | |
| Deadheading Princess Lilies | 6/16/2007 |
| Q: Should I be deadheading the spent blooms of my princess lilies, and how far back should I go on the ... A: Ken, deadheading is important because it causes the plant to force its energy to the roots and bulbs ... | |
| Lilac | 6/12/2007 |
| Q: Is it possible of a house lilac plant if so where do i get one, i don't have a garden outside to put ... A: Devin, unfortunately lilac flowers come from bushes. It would not be practical to grow these indoors ... | |
| Day Lillies; Deadheading | 6/11/2007 |
| Q: Googled my question and got your website. I have beautiful day lillies, but when the blooms start ... A: Rosie, day lillies only bloom once per year, as do many other perennials. They multiply every year, ... | |
| Tree propagation | 5/26/2007 |
| Q: Can I take a shoot cutting from a weeping red lace-leafed maple? My sister has a huge one that I ... A: Hedi, you sure can. Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid growth that has ... | |
| Propagating from Cuttings | 5/23/2007 |
| Q: I recently took a few cuttings of petunias a few weeks ago which have now rooted. In your experience ... A: Peter, since most seeds take between 12 and 21 days to germinate, there is no question that cuttings ... | |
| Azalea Propagation | 5/9/2007 |
| Q: I was taking a walk in the woods last week and noticed some wild azaleas. The area will be under ... A: Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid any growth that is woody. Remove the ... | |
| Propagation | 5/9/2007 |
| Q: How can I propagate Copper Canyon Daisy (tagettes Lemoni). A: Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid growth that has turned woody. Remove the ... | |
| Beech Trees | 5/6/2007 |
| Q: I live in Easton Pa. Can you tell me how to grow a Beech tree from seeds? I Have 5 seeds that I ... A: Jennifer, assuming the seed is viable, the process for growing plants from seed is fairly easy. If ... | |
| Pussy Willow Propagation | 5/2/2007 |
| Q: Mike, I have a pussy willow branch that I have been rooting since February. It has developed a nice ... A: Ann, I would transfer it to a 12" pot filled with organic soil. Allow the plant to mature through ... | |
| Cuttings | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: can a california pepper tree be grown from the cuttings/clipping? A: Yes it can. Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. ... | |
| Propagation; Snowball Bush | 4/22/2007 |
| Q: Can snowball bushes be grown from cuttings? A: Yes. Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the ... | |
| Tomato Seedlings | 4/22/2007 |
| Q: I have started 3 different tomato plant types from seeds in a 72 cell Burpee tray with the Burpee ... A: Bill, it sounds like you are doing the right things. However, the amount of water may be excessive. ... | |
| Propagation of Clematis Vines | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: I would like to know how to propagate Clematis, I have several growing on a trellis, and I'd like to ... A: Jettie, cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip ... | |
| Confederate Jasmine | 4/19/2007 |
| Q: How do I propagate Confederate Jasmine? In water or soil? How/Where do I cut (parts to ... A: Lorie, cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the ... | |
| Propagating Impatents | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: Two questions: 1.how do you propagate impatiens? and 2. can I plant cucumber seeds at the base of ... A: The best way to propagate impatients is with cuttings. Simply take a cutting from a young branch, ... | |
| Seedlings; Yellow Leaves | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: Mike, Before I ask my question I want to thank you for your time helping people that enjoy plants. ... A: Robert, it could be transplant shock. Rather than starting them in water, start the cuttings ... | |
| Seedlings; Yellow Leaves | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: Mike, Before I ask my question I want to thank you for your time helping people that enjoy plants. ... A: Robert, it sounds like the roots are saturated, which will eventually result in a condition called ... | |
| Soil Preparation | 3/28/2007 |
| Q: I am wanting to plant a snowball bush. Can you tell me how to prepare the soil. I am not finding ... A: Now is a great time to plant your bushes. Fertile soil is the secret to successful gardening. You ... | |
| seedlings leaves turning black | 3/24/2007 |
| Q: I am a beginner and I am starting some perennials from seed for the first time. The tips on the ... A: Julie, the condition your describing is black rot, also known as black spot. Black spot is a fungus ... | |
| Propagation; Coast Redwood | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: Hi - How can I propagate coast redwoods from cuttings? A: Jerry, cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the ... | |
| Apple Seedling | 3/16/2007 |
| Q: about 2 months ago my 6 year old decided he wanted to plant a seed from the apple he was eating and ... A: Penny, your best bet is to transplant the seedling into a pot that is at least six inches wide and ... | |
| Propagate Carnations | 3/4/2007 |
| Q: i have a white and pink carnation plant. Cd you pl tell how to propagate and look after the plant. ... A: Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the ... | |
| Propagating English Ivy | 1/31/2007 |
| Q: I'm doing a project for school with plant propagation. We needed to choose a plant, i chose ... A: Brynn, rather than placing the cuttings in water, I would use a good potting mix. Simply cut a ... | |
| Princess Lily | 1/16/2007 |
| Q: How do you propogate a Princess Lily from a growing plant? Are you able to do this from a cutting ... A: Jessica, I never recommend cutting a bulb except for ones that are comprised of cloves, such as ... | |
| seed collecting/harvesting | 1/14/2007 |
| Q: This question is a bit after the fact - but if you know the answer and I'm able to remember next ... A: Jana, the round green part of the stem is the pod which stores the seed. I always recommend cutting ... | |
| peach seeds | 1/10/2007 |
| Q: I live in Australia. About a month ago I found a peach pip that had opened, and the seed was inside, ... A: Barbara Ann, the germination time can vary from 21 days to two months. It is all dependant on the ... | |
| Growing Avocado | 12/20/2006 |
| Q: .. i am sending you this mail from Pakistan. i like this fruit very much and i brought the fresh ... A: Saeed, if propagating with pits, the point of the pit should be up and the root down. It should be ... | |
| blueberry propagation | 12/16/2006 |
| Q: I read your letter to gail and wanted to know if it would work this time of year? Also is there a ... A: Brian, this is not a good time of year for propagating with cuttings. It is always best to use a ... | |
| corn clover apples | 12/5/2006 |
| Q: Hello mike I'am new in growing Live in montana I tried clover yet want to grow something here ... A: Rick, the best advice I can give you is to start with good soil. Poor soil is almost always the ... | |
| Trumpet Plants | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: My wife and I planted a couple of trumpet plants in our garden in the backyard. Full sun (southern ... A: Paul, these are perennial plants that should survive in any climate south of zone 5. Texas ... | |
| magnolia seeds | 11/8/2006 |
| Q: How do I germinate magnolia seeds? I read in some sites that the red coat may have to be removed. ... A: Kenneth, they can be difficult to germinate due to the hardness of the outer shell on the seed. To ... | |
| climatis | 11/7/2006 |
| Q: Can i start climatis from the seed I got from the old blooms under a light this winter and what type ... A: Climatis can be started very easily from seed. However, I would purchase the seed from a reputable ... | |
| bare root day lillies | 11/6/2006 |
| Q: I recently bought some bare root day lillies. I have them in water right now until I get the flower ... A: Pat, day lillies are hardy and will survive transplanting in most climates throughout the U.S. This ... | |
| Rosebush propagating in Texas. | 11/4/2006 |
| Q: I've a general about how to propagate Rose's in texas. I have an antique rose bush that I would like ... A: James, you can propagate at any time. Since roses take 6 or more months to establish, you can raise ... | |
| cutting from a split leaf | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: We recently sold our house where we had nurtured a split leaf for 10 years. It is nearly 9' tall ... A: Shellie, you are better off waiting until spring when the plant produces new growth. Cuttings always ... | |
| English Ivy | 10/20/2006 |
| Q: I have some English Ivy in my front yard that is looking bad...as if it's dying back. We do have ... A: Harry, since English Ivy is rarely infested by insects, I would rule out a pest problem. The most ... | |
| follow up to bougainvillea propagation | 10/17/2006 |
| Q: Mike I thank you for your prompt response. I tried to send a follow up but I think I sent the ... A: Daniel, there are numerous products on the market today. Green Light makes a very good rooting ... | |
| propagating bougainvillea | 10/14/2006 |
| Q: Fort Laudrdale Florida. I want to root some Bougainvillia from existing trees/shrubs is this ... A: Daniel, propagation by cuttings is the preferred choice. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least ... | |
| avocado propagation | 10/14/2006 |
| Q: I live in Kwazulu Natal and wish to know if it is possible to propagate an avocado tree from ... A: Moyra, propagation by cuttings is the preferred choice. Propagating by harvested seed is never an ... | |
| How to Propagate Lavender | 10/8/2006 |
| Q: How can I take cuttings or layer from my lavender plants? A: Irene, cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid woody stems as they tend not to ... | |
| mums | 10/7/2006 |
| Q: I planted a mum in an 18" pot. If I mulch the top of it after I cut the mum back in late fall, will ... A: Melissa, it will all depend on the severity of the winter. Mums are hardy, and most will withstand ... | |
| begonia's | 10/7/2006 |
| Q: DUMFRIES.What is the best way to tuber begonia's A: If you're starting the tubers indoors, use sterilized pots that are approximately 3 inches deep with ... | |
| Planting apple seeds | 10/6/2006 |
| Q: my name is Jennifer Garcia and I live in Beeville, Texas. It is in southern Texas between San ... A: Jennifer, once the seed sprouts, you should immediately transplant it into a small pot containing a ... | |
| Jasmine cuttings | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: I'm wanting to start new jasmine plants from some good healthy branches. If it's possible could ... A: Ken, now is as good a time as any. cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagating ... | |
| Trumpet plants | 10/4/2006 |
| Q: My question is about Trumpet plants and how to store them. My husband has 4 large trumpet plants in ... A: Donna, you do not want to remove the plants from the pots if possible due to transplant shock. I ... | |
| Lilac bush/Hydrangea bush | 10/1/2006 |
| Q: Could you tell me how I would start a new bush at this time of year? I live in southwestern ... A: Mary Ellen, the primary reason for hydrangeas or any other flowering bush to not bloom is the soil. ... | |
| crepe myrtle propagation | 9/22/2006 |
| Q: I live in northern Va. and have a beautiful crepe myrtle growing in my yard. my question is can i ... A: Mark, cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagating myrtle. Simply cut a tender ... | |
| propagating English Ivy | 9/18/2006 |
| Q: Wytheville, VA My Ivy has grown up a tree. When it got about 15' tall it's leaf shape changed and it ... A: Ruby, you are correct that the plant will grow as a shrub if you propagate with cuttings. Cuttings ... | |
| Seed Starting | 9/17/2006 |
| Q: Hey Mike, Thanks for the tips on starting "day" lilies from seed. Was very helpful. I'd also like ... A: Mike, cannas and day lilies are propagated identically from seed. Actually, regardless of what plant ... | |
| taking roots from water to dirt | 9/15/2006 |
| Q: Monroe, Louisiana Hello! I trimmed back part of a Schefflera plant I have at my office at work. ... A: Dana, I would first plant it indoors in a pot containing a good potting soil to minimize transplant ... | |
| Avocado propagation | 9/15/2006 |
| Q: I have started an avocado plant from a pit. It is about 12 inches high. I read that I should have ... A: Lou Ann, you can still cut it back and plant it now. I prefer to plant in the spring, just after the ... | |
| Starting Canna Lillies From Seed | 9/14/2006 |
| Q: Hey Mike, I'd like to start some canna lillies from seed. What do I need to know? Thanks, Mike A: Mike, I answered this question the other day. Just in case you did not receive it, attached is a ... | |
| snowball bush | 9/14/2006 |
| Q: I live in southwestern Connecticut and have had a snowball bush for about 20 yrs. It is quite large ... A: Mary Ellen, I would definitely take a couple of cuttings. It is the fatest and easiest method of ... | |
| avacado seed | 9/13/2006 |
| Q: Can you please help me. I have an avacado that has sprout its root.How do i plant the seed? Do i ... A: The point should be up and the root down. It should be noted, however, that growing avocados from ... | |
| Starting Day Lillies from Seed | 9/11/2006 |
| Q: Hey Mike, I would like to start some day lillies from seed. Any tips on harvesting & planting ... A: Mike, propagation from seed is a relatively easy process. Be sure to wait until the pods have ... | |
| seed propagation of trumpet vine | 9/1/2006 |
| Q: Mike, I "googled" my subject and found lots of pros and cons about trumpet vine. I was given a ... A: Marilou, you can and should plant this vine in a pot. Some gardeners even dig a hole in the garden ... | |
| apple seeds | 8/29/2006 |
| Q: I was cutting open an apple for some kids and inside the seed to my surprise one of the seeds had ... A: Jenna, the seedling will eventually grow into a tree if cared for properly. But keep in mind that ... | |
| How to harvest Hydrangea seeds | 8/21/2006 |
| Q: I am new at this and I would like to find out how to locate and harvest the seeds from my Hydrangea ... A: Ginger, before attempting to harvest seed, make sure that you are growing open-pollinated varieties. ... | |
| Tree Propagation | 8/10/2006 |
| Q: Last year I planted a Purple Ash tree. This year it has grown 4 suckers from the base of the tree. ... A: Peter, suckers are great for propagation, as long as they are at a young stage. Make sure you only ... | |
| Crepe Myrtle seeds | 7/31/2006 |
| Q: How do you obtain Crepe Myrtle seeds, are they in the flower? Thank you, Lorraine A: Yes they are. To harvest the seed, you must allow the flower to spend completely without ... | |
| peach seeds | 7/29/2006 |
| Q: Summerdale, AL Hi Mike, I understand seed propagation from hybrid fruit won't result in a fruit ... A: If the seed is from an open-pollinated variety, the offspring should be a fruit-bearing tree. Since ... | |
| propagation from basal branch | 7/27/2006 |
| Q: I have a Shefflera that sprouted a side shoot near base of the plant and I took it off and I found ... A: Stephen, you need to retain moisture for the plant until the roots are fully established. To do ... | |
| seed death | 7/26/2006 |
| Q: ...does some part of the plant, or seed HAVE TO/BY NECESSITY die in order for the seed to grow into ... A: The answer is yes. When a plant goes to seed, it is completing its life cycle for that year. That is ... | |
| propagation of lupins and foxgloves | 7/6/2006 |
| Q: Can you tell me how to go about sowing seeds from my lupins and foxgloves in my garden, the flowers ... A: and thanks for your question. You should wait at least 3 months before sowing fresh seed. Once the ... | |
| propagating crepe myrtle cuttings | 7/5/2006 |
| Q: I live in Hawaii, on Oahu. I was given a few mature crepe myrtle branch cuttings, about a foot and ... A: Loretta, normally I advise placing the cutting in a good potting soil after dipping it in rootone, ... | |
| How to propogate a Brugsmania from mother plant? | 7/2/2006 |
| Q: I have a large Angel's Trumpet {Brugsmania}, and would like to make starts to give to friends. I ... A: Julie, cuttings are the best way to propagate this plant. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least ... | |
| Persimmon Trees | 5/9/2006 |
| Q: I live between Louisville and Lexington Kentucky. I have several wild persimmons, but not all of ... A: Sue, you are absolutely correct in your assessment. Persimmons need a pollinator, preferable ... | |
| Planting Flowers and fertilizer | 4/18/2006 |
| Q: I want to plant some flowers in my Mothers flower areas in her front yard. They are in front of the ... A: Roger, I personally do not use the tape strips, but from those I know who do, they do work. The ... | |
| Bamboo seed propagation | 3/28/2006 |
| Q: ! Good to know there are experts to ask questions of. I have planted several hundred Moso bamboo ... A: Ray, the reason the seelings are the reason the seedlings are dying shortly after germination is due ... | |
| mums | 3/26/2006 |
| Q: i planted mums last years i need to know what to do to get them to come back this year do i need to ... A: Danny, I always recommend pruning mums after the last flowers fade in the fall. I cut mine back to ... | |
| Propagating Gardenias | 3/21/2006 |
| Q: May gardenias be propagated using cuttings from a parent plant? If so, how? I live in Lee County in ... A: Yes, gardenias can be propagated using cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six ... | |
| Lawn | 3/21/2006 |
| Q: My yard is mostly weeds or weedy type grass. It's not a very large yard, but I'm not very young ... A: Dottie, Roundup would be the fastest process. After the lawn dies off in a few days, I would wait ... | |
| seed starting | 3/12/2006 |
| Q: my question is about planting 4-0 clock seeds,i heard its a good idea to soak seeds in water ... A: Will, there are seeds that require soaking for 24 hours to improve germination. These are seeds ... | |
| rosemary and "lucky bamboo" | 2/24/2006 |
| Q: I hope you don't mind if I combine two easy questions into one e-mail. What is the best medium for ... A: Baihu, the best medium for starting seeds is a soiless mix comprised of perlite, vermiculite, and ... | |
| Watering seedlings | 2/22/2006 |
| Q: I have seedlings growing in Jiffy-Mix and 3" peat pots under 40W GE Chroma 50 (sunshine rated) ... A: Michael, using a spray bottle is fine for misting, which of course keeps the humidity level high for ... | |
| apple trees from seeds | 2/22/2006 |
| Q: Even though it is not the best way to get apple trees, I have been using seeds from apples I buy at ... A: Harry, the reason the seedlings are falling over and dying shortly after germination is due to a ... | |
| Seeding and Propagation | 1/21/2006 |
| Q: I have a tangerine seed that I would like to bring to propagation in San Jose, CA. The seed has just ... A: Glenn, it is possible to grow a tree from a seed, but be advised that growing a tree from seed is a ... | |
| lychee seeds | 1/18/2006 |
| Q: I have noticed that a number of people have asked questions about propogating avocado seeds and I ... A: Jo, the harder the seed, the longer it takes to germinate. To expedite the process, you need to ... | |
| Princess trees | 1/16/2006 |
| Q: I am interested in growing princess trees- I currently have this particular tree growing wild on our ... A: Shana, the percentage of germination will decrease once seeds are exposed to inclimate conditions. ... | |
| Ornamental grass propagation | 10/31/2005 |
| Q: Mike, Good day...we just purchased a home and one of the first plantings we made were ornamental ... A: Kevin, since most ornamental grasses are hybrids, they will not produce true to the parent plant. ... | |
| Seed Pods | 10/28/2005 |
| Q: I have some "Hot Lip" seed Pods from a plant I have in my garden. I don't know the proper name for ... A: You sure can. Just allow the pods to dry for at least 3 days indoors on a paper towel. The ... | |
| Collected Seed Pods | 10/5/2005 |
| Q: I have collected some seed pods from some Rose of Sharon, Wisteria, and Perennial Hibiscus. Should ... A: I always prefer to save the seed since I normally till the area and mulch over it in the spring. ... | |
| Seeds packaged for 2005 | 9/25/2005 |
| Q: I would like to know if seeds packaged for 2005 can still be used. Should I just plant them now in ... A: Jeanne, most seeds will stay viable for 3-5 years if kept dry and at temperatures between 35F and ... | |
| alpines in greenhouse | 9/20/2005 |
| Q: Mike, is it possible to grow alpine plants alongside tomatoes and cucumbers in the greenhouse? I ... A: Most alpines definitely prefer light shade, but they still need some sun. My only concern would be ... | |
| Propagating Bougainvillea | 8/27/2005 |
| Q: I live in New York State and I am not sure which exact zone that is. I would like to know how to ... A: Jan, simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. ... | |
| bouganvilla | 7/26/2005 |
| Q: I would like to know how to plant cuttings of both bouganvilla and geraniums. I live in los angeles, ... A: Ida, simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. ... | |
| Propagating Pachysandra | 7/25/2005 |
| Q: I have an old bed of pachysandra which has produced one variegated plant. I've seen other ... A: Kathy, the best method to propagate pachysandra is with cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is ... | |
| Hydrangea propagation | 6/14/2005 |
| Q: A friend moved across town and left an established hydrangea plant at the former home. She'd like ... A: Esther, the best way to propagate this plant is with cuttings. Prune a 4" cutting from a branch ... | |
| Annual Vinca | 4/25/2005 |
| Q: I start a lots of annual seed every year and have great luck with most. But growing annual Vinca is ... A: JoAnn, vinca is a sensitive plant to start from seed. However, it can be grown successfully if a ... | |
| Schefflera Cuttings | 3/29/2005 |
| Q: -About how long are the roots in 2 weeks? What does the plastic do?I have trouble getting roots to ... A: Chris, the roots are long enough when they take a firm hold with the soil. Many gardeners give the ... | |
| Schefflera Cuttings | 3/29/2005 |
| Q: I have trouble getting roots to grow from these cuttings. I put them in water for well over a month ... A: Chris, some plants are susceptible to root rot. The cuttings probably began developing roots but ... | |
| First garden | 1/22/2005 |
| Q: I am going to be starting my first vegetable garden this year and I need help on how to prepare my ... A: Joshua, my first recommendation would be to not start too big on your first garden. Gardening ... | |
| English ivy | 12/31/2004 |
| Q: I have too much English ivy in one part of my yard and not enough in another. Would it be possible ... A: Jo, cuttings would be your best option. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. ... | |
| tomato plant | 12/17/2004 |
| Q: I bought a tomato from the grocery store and wanted to plant the seeds out of it. Will the tomato ... A: The answer to your question depends on the variety of the tomato you purchased. If the tomato is a ... | |
| propagating presimmon seeds | 10/6/2004 |
| Q: My question is simply this, is there any certain direction that the seed should be planted so that ... A: It makes absolutely no difference. Mother nature has a way (with the help of gravity) to ensure ... | |
| Moving a split-leaf philodendron | 10/3/2004 |
| Q: Mike, I live on Galveston Island, TX. My wife planted a split-leaf philodendron under our deck and ... A: James, anytime you move a plant, there are risks that the plant will be damaged to some extent. ... | |
| using seeds direct from fruit/veggie... | 9/15/2004 |
| Q: and thanks for your time in advance. i would like to use seeds direct from green/red bell peppers ... A: Mike, propagation from seed is a relatively easy process. The key is to keep them dry and cool. ... | |
| pepper seeds | 8/6/2004 |
| Q: could yoy please help me..I was told if I save the seeds from my Melrose peppers especialy the big ... A: George, propagation from seed is a relatively easy process. Harvest the seeds and place them in a ... | |
| propagation of ancient apple trees | 7/25/2004 |
| Q: We have an apple orchard with trees at least 90 years old that was a part of my great-grandfathers ... A: Mike, cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagation besides harvesting seed. ... | |
| Munchner Bier Radish | 6/11/2004 |
| Q: A friend of mine just brought back Muncher Bier Radish seeds for me. The instructions are in ... A: Karen, you need to plant them 1/4 inch deep and 3" apart. I always recommend raised beds for root ... | |
| Blueberry Bush | 6/10/2004 |
| Q: Mike: My neighbor has blueberry bushes that produce lots of tasty fruit each June. He encourages me ... A: Gail, cuttings are without question the easiest method of propagation besides harvesting seed. ... | |
| pruning & propagation | 6/5/2004 |
| Q: we just purchased an older home (40 yrs) with huge flowering bushes - 20' high average...i need to ... A: Marian, the two books I use as for reference are Rodales Encyclopedia of Gardening and Burpee's ... | |
| impatiens(bizzy lizzy) | 5/2/2004 |
| Q: could you please give me advise on growing my own bizzy lizzy from seed, i seem to be able to grow ... A: Dave, impatiens should be started in a light, soiless mix. I use a mixture containing perlite, ... | |
| Caring for seedlings | 4/30/2004 |
| Q: This is the 1st year I started vegetables from seed. I started some 4th of July tomatoes and they ... A: Christopher, the reason your seedlings are dying shortly after germination is due to a disease ... | |
| SWEET PEAS | 3/20/2004 |
| Q: I've got 5 different types of sweet peas that say there hardy anuals. What exactly does this mean? ... A: Mikki, sweet peas have the same growth habit as violas and pansies. They love the cool weather, but ... | |
| Apple trees from seed | 6/26/2003 |
| Q: I live in Maine and I would like to have some apple trees on the lawn I have. In order to get these ... A: Dennis, I would not recommend growing an apple tree from seed. My reasoning is that most apple ... | |
| growing creeping thyme from seeds | 4/10/2003 |
| Q: I am a novice gardener, so I apologize in advance for my many silly questions. I have a little over ... A: Lisa, I would not put down landscape fabric. I have found weeds and grass actually break right ... | |
| Yellowing bottom leaves on seed pelargoniums | 3/25/2003 |
| Q: We have started pelargoniums from seed. They have grown fantasticly and we have fertilized with a ... A: Kenneth, when fertilization is not the issue, the primary cause of seedlings turning yellow is a ... | |
| Pinching out | 2/26/2003 |
| Q: I have read that by pinching out you get a better plant ( annuals/half hardy annuals ) but I have ... A: John, pinching is simply pruning the new top growth which promotes bushier, fuller plants with side ... | |
| Propergation | 2/16/2003 |
| Q: I have started propergation of chillies from seeds. (Taken from green chillies themselves) The ... A: Debbie, leggy plants are the result of one of three problems. Either the plants are not getting the ... | |
| which seeds would you pick | 2/1/2003 |
| Q: sorry I called you Tom in the last Q. Out of my 17 species I'm gona start which would you put in the ... A: I would put them all in peat pots if you have enough available. As I indicated in the last ... | |
| sunflowers | 1/15/2003 |
| Q: mike, for your informed answer to my earlier question. i intend to plant a fairly neat row of ... A: If sowing by hand, you should plant the seed 1/2 inch below the soil level. Sow one week following ... | |
| rose propogation | 10/20/2002 |
| Q: I have a rose bush that once grew in my father's garden and I am interested in finding out more ... A: Sarah, the easiest method for propagating roses is with cuttings. You need to take a cutting from ... | |
| Bulbs vs. seeds | 9/25/2002 |
| Q: Question from 3rd grade science book... If a plant grows from a bulb, does it still have seeds? ... A: Pat, bulbs do produce flowers that will produce seed if not deadheaded immediately after fading. ... | |
| Delphinium | 9/14/2002 |
| Q: I have been collecting Delphinium seeds from my plants. I am storing them in a paper envelope as of ... A: Kristine, propagation from seed is a relatively easy process. Place the seeds in a ziplock bag and ... | |
| Japanese Maple trees | 9/11/2002 |
| Q: I have collected some seeds from an Acer tree growing in an ornamental garden in the UK. I also have ... A: Dave, propagation from seed is a relatively easy process. Place the seeds in a ziplock bag and ... | |
| Eggplant not fruiting | 8/31/2002 |
| Q: My eggplant is about 2.5 months old. It was purchase at the local garden shop and after just 4 week ... A: Rebecca, when blossoms or young fruit shrivel and fall off prematurely, it is usually an indication ... | |
| starting from seeds | 7/27/2002 |
| Q: I just bid on several auctions for seeds. If I win, I will have 1,000's. I started some seeds this ... A: Cheryl, starting seeds is actually an easy process, but success only comes through many years of ... | |
Mike Mascio
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I have been an avid gardener since 1985 and an AllExpert volunteer since 1998. I specialize in soil preparation, seed starting and plant propagation, flowers, vegetables, and general landscaping. I am a strong advocate of the square foot method of gardening and the use of organic controls for pests and diseases.
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