Commonly Asked Questions
Has your neighbor or friend given you some horticultural advice only to realize it was the wrong approach? It happens all the time in the greens industry. So why believe what we say. It is all up to you who you listen to and the decisions you make, so compare ideas, and trust a similar opinion.
How do I water my newly installed plants?
With a soaker hose. Wrapping this black porous hose around each plant will allow the water to slowly penetrate the ground without run-off. Water 12 hours in the evening for the first 2 weeks. Taper off to twice a week after that during the hot evenings.
How do I water my newly seeded lawn?
Seed needs constant moisture for a high percentage of seed to germinate. Water lightly as much as possible until all the seed has germinated. Some varieties germinate faster than others. After germination taper off to deeper watering twice a week.
How do I water my mature lawn?
Deep water penetration is the most important. Water from mid-June to Mid-September three times a week. Water should penetrate down 4-6" into the ground. (Approximately 4 hours of watering)
Why do my trees and shrubs fail to flower?
(a) The plant has been placed in too shady of a location
(b) Excessive competition from adjacent shrub or tree roots
(c) Your plant is planted too deep.
(d) You pruned away your flower buds
(e) Some plants do not flower until they reach a certain age.
(f) Excessive winter temperatures
(g) Soil is deficient is some nutrient. Root pruning may be the answer
Is topping an accepted form of pruning?
Topping is an accepted form of pruning. Fact: Pollarding, topping of trees, or vista pruning will ruin the natural form of a tree and should be avoided. Watersprout growth will emerge the next season from the top cuts resulting in an unsightly tree and will have to be pruned again and again, year after year. Pick the correct tree for the space considering a small or medium height tree. If you must vista prune consider pruning before it is overgrown for the space.
How much mulch should I spread on my planting beds?
Excessive mulch above the root collar or root flare can cause girdling or strangling roots and promote a shallow root system. Don't mulch too close to the trunk and add a "refreshing" layer each season for moisture retention and to reduce soil compaction.
Does filling cavities benefit your tree?
Cavity filling with cement will actually damage the tree further. Compartmentalization is a natural defense in trees by which they wall off decay in the wood.
Does spray painting or brushing roofing cement on new cuts benefit healing?
Painting holds moisture in, accelerating decay. Using roofing cement or tar will inhibit the healing or wound wood process. Leave the wound open and let the tree cover over the wound naturally. Trace the bark around a broken branch to hasten the healing process.
Should I prune my tree or shrub roots?
Root pruning in certain instances can be beneficial to a plant stimulating flowering and growth. All plants are different and should be treated differently. Any damaged roots due to construction should be clean cut before backfilling.
When should I prune?
Pruning can be performed any time of year. Although there are certain times of the year certain trees should be avoided, you still can prune.
Is landscaping time sensitive?
Timing is very important. Every landscape is different, and plant needs change from day to day. Consistent monitoring of weather, property use, watering, fertilization, disease and insect control are examples of time-sensitive tree care operations.
Can I nail or screw into my tree?
Nails and screws in a tree will cause death and decay of wood around the obstruction. The hole created will never heal, it will just get covered over as the tree grows. Avoiding even small injuries to your tree will dramatically prolong its life. If you must cable go all the way through and bolt to the other side.
Can I drive under my tree?
Soil compaction is a slow tree damage process. In compacted soil, pore space has been reduced, and roots do not get enough oxygen. The tree will slowly decline and die with few or no other signs of the cause. Avoid soil compaction by aerating, mulching, and avoiding any other soil disruptions.
