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 34 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
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Question I have a tree in a large wooden potting container, approx 2ft in diameter, & it's leaves are starting to turn brown because when I water it the water just runs right thru. Can I replace the top half of the soil with new soil & cure this problem? It is too large to take completely out. Also is there a way I can recondition this soil & use it in my flower beds once I take it out.
Thanks,
Debbi
Answer Hi Debbie, Roots are at the soil surface for a reason. They need air. If you cover these you plant may die. The soil that needs to be removed is at the bottom of the plant.
If you can't get someone to help you properly repot it, get the longest screwdriver you can find. Push it down through the soil and open up a couple of dozen holes. Fill these with a potting soil that has a water holding polymer added to it or you can buy the polymer from your local garden center and add a very, very tiny amount in the holes and cover with fresh potting soil. The polymer looks like sand but swells when water is added and will help your plant keep from drying so quickly.
If you can repot it, throw away the old soil, don't reuse it. Jim
