AboutJames L. Crowder Expertise I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants
Experience I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations Garden Writers Association
Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair
Publications Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials 37 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Question Hello James,
I live in the Piney Woods of Southeast Texas and I am trying to grow red tips. However, the leaves turn a rust color and fall off. The local nursery has quit sekking them due to rust. Is there an herbicide I can use to save my red tips. They surround my vegetable garden acting as a fence.Thank You, RJ
Answer Hi RJ, Your nursery is wise. They're in the rose family and get a nasty leaf spot disease. They are a very high maintenance plant. You'll have to spray them every two weeks during the growing season. I'd use propiconazole. It's an excellent systemic fungicide. They'll stay clean if you stay on the spray program. Jim
