Commonly asked tree and shrub questions

This article will help answer some of the most common tree and shrub questions that many people asked daily.

Commonly asked tree and shrub questions 

Question 1: What is an “evergreen”?

Answer:  An evergreen is any tree or shrub that keeps its leaves or needles all year round which provide color and contrast in the land scape. Evergreen is the opposite to a deciduous tree or shrub which loses its leaves every fall and produces new leaves each spring.

Question 2: Which trees and shrubs are good for container gardening?

Answer: When considering using trees and shrubs in in container gardening you will want to choose the ones that grow slowly. Evergreens are a great choice because the don not shed. Alberta spruce, Emerald Green Arborvitaes, Mugo Pine, Bird’s Nest Spruce, Boxwood and topiaries are great selections.  Japanese maples even though they are not evergreen but an excellent container garden choice because they have compacted roots that allow them to thrive in containers.

Question 3: When do I cut back my ornamental grass?

Answer: Ornamental grasses can be cut back two times per year. Grasses can be cut back to 4 to 6 inches above the ground in the fall and when they start to go dormant. Or if you want to enjoy the plumes as winter you can cut your grass back to 4 to 6 inches in early spring before it starts to grow.

Question 4: How do I get my fruit tree to bear fruit?

Answer: Most fruit trees require cross pollination to bear fruit .For example you will need two different types of apple trees to bear fruit such as red delicious and gala.  Fruit develops on three year or older branches. Keep this in mind while pruning to not remove the branches that will bear fruit.

Question 5: When do I prune my flowering trees and shrubs?

Answer: As a rule of thumb you want to prune all of your flowering trees and shrubs immediately after they are done flowering. This ensures you do not remove next season’s flower buds.

Question 6: Which is the best tree or shrub for my location or where I live?

Answer:  When choosing a tree or shrub for a new spot you will need to do a little research first. Take note of th amount of sunlight the area gets, how much moisture the soil holds and how large the plant gets. Each tree and shrub has different light and water requirements along with different mature heights.  Proper placement leads to greater success.

Question 7: How do I plant my tree or shrub?

Answer: To plant any tree or shrub you first should dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root system. For container plants loosen the roots so plants can establish themselves. For balled and bur-lapped plants remove any wire basket and twine along with any burlap from the top of the root ball. Next place the plant in the hole and make sure the top of the root ball is even with or slightly above the ground level.  Back fill with soil and any amendments needed. Compress the soil around the root ball.  Water the new planting and repeat as necessary. Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch to hold in soil moisture and control weeds.

Other questions about gardening and plant care can be asked in the comments section below and I will respond to them promptly.