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About 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.

You are here: Experts > Homework Help > Trees > Seeding and Propagation

Questions Answered By Expert Mike Mascio
In Category Seeding and Propagation

Subject	Date Asked

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 ...

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