Prune affected leaves: Remove any affected leaves, stems, or flowers from the plant, and dispose of them in the trash. This can help prevent the spread of disease.
Water properly: Make sure your rose plant is receiving adequate water, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal diseases. Water the plant at the base to avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can promote the growth of fungal spores.
Fertilize: Fertilize your rose plant with a balanced fertilizer to provide it with the necessary nutrients to help it recover.
Apply fungicides: If the brown spots are caused by fungal diseases, you may need to apply a fungicide to help control the problem. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Apply insecticides: If the brown spots are caused by pests, such as spider mites or thrips, you may need to apply an appropriate insecticide to control the problem.
Improve environmental conditions: Ensure your rose plant is located in a suitable environment with adequate protection and water. Avoid placing the plant in areas that are too hot, dry, or windy, as this can stress the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.
Keep in mind that prevention is the best strategy for avoiding brown spots on rose leaves. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease or pests, and take action immediately to control any problems. Additionally, planting disease-resistant rose varieties can help reduce the likelihood of brown spots and other diseases.
]]>Test your soil's pH level: You can purchase a soil test kit from a garden center or nursery, or you can send a soil sample to a laboratory for testing. Endless Summer hydrangeas require a soil pH between 5.2 and 5.5 for blue flowers.
Lower the soil pH: If your soil is too alkaline (pH above 5.5), you can lower the pH by adding aluminum sulfate to the soil. Follow the instructions on the package for the appropriate amount to add based on the size of your hydrangea and the current pH level of your soil. This will make the soil more acidic, which will encourage the hydrangea to produce blue flowers.
Monitor the soil pH: Check the pH level of your soil regularly to make sure it stays within the optimal range for blue flowers. You can add additional aluminum sulfate as needed to maintain the proper pH.
Be patient: It may take several months to see the effects of the soil pH change on your hydrangeas. The flowers may start to turn blue in the second year after the soil has been amended.
Note that it's important to be cautious when adding any chemicals to your soil, and it's always a good idea to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Additionally, some Endless Summer hydrangeas may not turn blue even with a lower soil pH due to their genetics, so the results of this method may vary.
]]>Physical removal: During the early stages of an infestation, handpicking the caterpillars and destroying the egg masses can be effective. Wear gloves and pick off the caterpillars one by one and drop them in a bucket of soapy water. Scrape off and destroy the egg masses as well.
Bt application: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a natural bacteria that is toxic to gypsy moth caterpillars. It is available in various formulations such as liquid sprays, dusts, and granules. Bt should be applied in the early stages of the caterpillar's life cycle to be most effective.
Insecticides: Chemical insecticides can be effective against gypsy moths, but they should only be used as a last resort. If you choose to use insecticides, read and follow the label instructions carefully and use protective clothing to avoid exposure.
Tree banding: Wrapping a sticky band around the trunk of the tree can trap gypsy moth caterpillars as they climb up the tree. The band should be placed at least 5 feet above the ground and checked regularly to remove trapped caterpillars.
Natural predators: Encourage natural predators of gypsy moths, such as birds, bats, and parasitic wasps, to help control their population.
Tree health management: Keeping trees healthy and well-maintained can help them resist and recover from gypsy moth damage. Fertilizing, watering, and pruning can improve tree health.
It's important to note that gypsy moth control can be a long-term process, and it may require a combination of different methods to be effective. Consult with a pest management professional or your local extension office for specific recommendations for your area.
]]>Here are some general guidelines for watering outdoor plants:
Check the soil moisture: Check the moisture level of the soil regularly by inserting your finger into the soil. If the top inch of the soil feels dry, it's time to water the plants.
Water deeply: Water the plants deeply, so that the water reaches the roots. This will help the roots grow deeper and make the plants more resilient to drought.
Water in the morning or evening: Water your outdoor plants in the early morning or late evening when the sun is not too hot. This will prevent the water from evaporating quickly, and the plants will have enough time to absorb the water before the heat of the day.
Adjust watering based on weather conditions: During hot and dry weather, outdoor plants may need more frequent watering, while during cooler and wetter conditions, they may need less frequent watering.
Avoid overwatering: Overwatering can be harmful to the plants and can lead to root rot, which can damage or kill the plant. Make sure the water penetrates the soil deeply, but doesn't create puddles or standing water.
Remember that different plants have different watering requirements, so it's best to research the specific needs of the plants in your garden to ensure they receive the appropriate amount of water.
]]>Here are some general guidelines for soil types for different types of plants:
Vegetable gardens: Vegetables generally prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that is high in organic matter. A mix of garden soil and compost can work well for vegetable gardens.
Flower gardens: Most flowering plants prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. A good mix of topsoil, compost, and peat moss can provide a good growing environment for most flowering plants.
Houseplants: Houseplants often require a potting mix that is lighter and more porous than garden soil, as it needs to provide good drainage and aeration. A good potting mix can be made by combining peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.
Trees and shrubs: Trees and shrubs require well-draining soil that is high in nutrients, with a pH level that is suitable for the specific species. A mix of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand can provide a good growing environment for trees and shrubs.
It's always a good idea to research the specific soil requirements for the plants you want to grow, to ensure that you are providing the best growing environment for them.
]]>Prune in late winter or early spring: The best time to prune shrub roses is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This will allow you to see the overall shape of the plant and make necessary cuts.
Remove dead or diseased wood: Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood using clean, sharp pruning shears. This will help prevent the spread of disease and promote healthy growth.
Remove any crossing branches: Look for branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as these can create wounds that can lead to disease. Remove one of the branches to prevent further damage.
Shape the plant: Next, shape the plant by selectively removing some of the branches. Look for branches that are growing in the wrong direction or are overcrowding the center of the plant. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the branch back to a healthy outward-facing bud. This will help promote new growth and a more open, airy structure.
Prune for size: If your shrub rose is getting too large, you can prune it back to a more manageable size. Cut back the branches by about one-third, making the cuts just above an outward-facing bud. This will help promote new growth and maintain the overall shape of the plant.
Deadhead spent blooms: Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent blooms to encourage new blooms to form. Cut the stem just above the first five-leaflet leaf.
Maintain a consistent pruning routine: Pruning shrub roses regularly will help promote healthy growth and abundant blooming. Aim to prune your shrub roses once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain their size and shape.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a healthy, beautiful shrub rose plant.
]]>Pruning hydrangeas can help promote healthier growth, encourage blooming, and maintain a desirable size and shape. The method for pruning hydrangeas may vary depending on the species and the desired outcome, but here are some general guidelines:
Bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla): These hydrangeas bloom on old wood, which means the flower buds form on last year's growth. They should be pruned immediately after blooming or in early summer before the new buds develop.
Panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata): These hydrangeas bloom on new wood, which means they produce new growth and flower buds each year. They can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens): These hydrangeas also bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring.
Remove dead or damaged wood: Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. This will help promote healthier growth and prevent the spread of disease.
Remove old wood (for bigleaf hydrangeas): If you have a bigleaf hydrangea, remove any old wood that did not produce new growth or flowers during the previous year. This will help encourage new growth and improve blooming.
Remove one-third of the oldest stems (for panicle hydrangeas): For panicle hydrangeas, remove one-third of the oldest stems each year to promote new growth and maintain a healthy size.
Cut back to a healthy bud: When pruning, make the cut just above a healthy bud. This will help promote new growth and prevent the stem from becoming too long.
Remove any weak or spindly growth: Remove any weak or spindly growth to promote a more compact and vigorous plant.
Avoid over-pruning: It's important to avoid over-pruning hydrangeas, as this can reduce blooming and weaken the plant. Only remove what is necessary to maintain the desired size and shape.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a healthy, beautiful hydrangea plant.
When selecting a tree for a small yard, it's important to consider the tree's size at maturity, growth rate, and the specific growing conditions of your yard. Be sure to choose a tree that is well-suited to your particular site and that will thrive in your climate.
]]>Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) can be a beautiful and ornamental addition to any garden or landscape. Here are some tips on how to maintain Japanese maples:
Soil and Watering: Japanese maples prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They do not tolerate standing water, so make sure the soil is well-drained. Watering should be consistent and thorough, especially during dry periods. Be sure not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
Sunlight: Japanese maples prefer partial shade, especially during the hot summer months. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch and damage to the tree.
Fertilization: Japanese maples do not require a lot of fertilizer. You can use a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and another application in the fall.
Pruning: Prune Japanese maples in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. It's important to maintain the tree's natural shape while pruning.
Winter Protection: In Toronto, it is important to protect Japanese maples during the winter months. Mulch around the base of the tree to help insulate the roots, and wrap the tree in burlap to protect it from harsh winter winds.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Japanese maple thrives.
The best time to plant a tree is when it is dormant (not growing). This typically means spring or fall. Trees, can, however, be planted during the growing season as well but they may require some extra attention to ensure their watering needs are met. In any case, it is important to plant the tree as quickly as possible after purchasing it. If you are not able to plant the tree immediately, take care to keep it hydrated in a cool, shady place. To reduce the shock of transplanting, we advise planting in the morning if possible.
Online Order: songsco.com
Email:info@songsco.com
Tel: 647-812-1188
Address: 16110 Woodbine Ave., Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A 2W3, Canada
Everyone knows the basic stuff:
But did you know that trees increase property value and reduce the use of energy in our homes? Not only do they make our homes more desirable on the real-estate market, strategically placed trees play a significant role in lowering our energy bills throughout the year. By placing trees in locations that provide shade in the summer and protection from wind in the winter, we are getting instant savings in both heating and air conditioning costs. Planting a tree is like putting money in the bank!
Fighting climate change, reducing energy bills, and providing for wildlife are just a few aspects of just how beneficial trees are. Trees also have an astonishing ability to absorb and retain water, making them a significant part of storm water management. Surface roots quickly absorb water as it seeps into the ground and tap roots use up some of the groundwater, allowing the soil to absorb more and this, in turn helps prevent drainage system overflows.
If that’s not already enough, let’s talk about trees and human health for a minute. Trees make people happier, healthier and more productive. Every tree that we plant helps clean the air, reducing smog and air pollution. We know that air pollution has a direct negative impact on human health and has been linked to many health concerns such as diabetes, cancer, respiratory illnesses and heart disease. Planted trees also increase urban greenspace which as we know, has been shown to reduce our stress levels, a much needed benefit in today’s society. Studies show that looking at trees and green plants slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormone and calms the central nervous system! Patients who can look at trees from their hospital rooms even recover faster and require less medication.
We can think of a wide array of other benefits of trees, such as reducing noise pollution, preventing soil erosion, providing employment in the forestry field, encouraging outdoor activity and providing food. Strategically planted trees around the home contribute to the environment and help improve the life quality in your community so it is fair, in our opinion, to say that trees are life!
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Email:info@songsco.com
Tel: 647-812-1188
Address: 16110 Woodbine Ave., Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A 2W3, Canada
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When to mulch?
Apply Mulch when the soil surface is dry. During wet periods, mulching may encourage fungal disease.
How much mulch should apply?
A 3" to 4’’ thick and 3 ft diameter mulched ring is needed for at least two years for trees installed in lawn areas. 1 cubic yard bag of mulch will cover 100 square feet at 3" inches
Can the mulch touch the trunk of trees?
Mulch should never pile up against the trunk, otherwise, it will hold moisture there and may lead to rot. Mulch should not be placed within 10cm of the base of the trunk of trees, and 5cm for shrubs.
Check out the varieties and prices of mulch here: https://songsco.com/collections/mulch
Posted on August 23,2020
Online Order: songsco.com
Email:info@songsco.com
Tel: 647-812-1188
Address: 16110 Woodbine Ave.,Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A 2W3, Canada
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