Frequently Asked Questions
Harvest salsify in mid- to late November as cool fall temperatures enhance the oyster-like flavor of the roots. After harvest, trim off the foliage 1 inch above the roots and store the salsify at a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit and a...
While most trees and shrubs bloom in spring or summer, witch hazels are a notable exception. Common witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) blooms from mid-October to early December. Vernal witch hazel (Hamamelis vernalis) and...
Many species of trees are available as cut Christmas trees in both local tree farms and commercial lots. The species you select will depend on attributes like color, shape, needle retention, aroma, and branch stiffness (to hold up heavy ornaments...
Harvest parsnips in mid- to late November as cool fall temperatures convert starch to sugar and give parsnips their distinctive flavor. After harvest, trim the foliage back to within 1 inch of the roots. Store parsnips at a...
The storage life of onions is largely determined by the variety (cultivar), harvesting and drying procedures, and storage conditions.
When selecting onions, choose varieties that store well, such as ‘Copra’, ‘Stuttgarter’, and ‘Sweet...
If given good care in the home, poinsettias should remain attractive for 2 to 3 months. Toss the poinsettia when you grow tired of it or it becomes unattractive.
Tips to have the poinsettia bloom again:
March to Late...
Spring and summer and the best times to fertilize houseplants. Fertilizers are available in liquid, crystalline, granular, spike, and tablet forms. Utilize fertilizers specifically formulated for houseplants or use general...
To prevent extensive bark damage, use a 3-cut procedure when pruning branches that are greater than 1½ inches in diameter. Make the first cut 6 to 12 inches from the main branch or trunk. Cut upward and go about one-third of the way...
The best way to prevent rabbit damage to roses in the home landscape is to place chicken wire fencing or hardware cloth around the plants. To adequately protect plants, the fencing material needs to be high enough that rabbits won’t be able...
The problem may be improper storage. Acorn-type squashes should be stored at a temperature of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Some acorn-type squashes will turn yellow when stored at temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. High...
The poinsettia has long been regarded as poisonous. However, research conducted at various institutions has shown the poinsettia is not poisonous. While the poinsettia is not poisonous, it is not intended for human or animal...
Fertilization is generally not necessary during the winter months as most houseplants are not growing during this time. Indoor gardeners should fertilize their houseplants on a regular basis in spring and summer when plants are actively...
Do not apply a pruning paint or wound dressing to pruning wounds. The application of a pruning paint or wound dressing does not prevent wood decay and may actually interfere with the tree’s natural wound responses.
Oak trees are an...
The symptoms of salt injury to deciduous trees and shrubs include stunted growth, marginal leaf scorch, early fall coloration, and twig dieback. Accumulation of salt in the soil over several years may result in progressive decline and eventual...
Repeated freezing and thawing of the soil during the winter months can lift up or heave some perennials out of the soil. Heaving exposes the plant’s crown and roots to cold, dry air. Perennials that have been heaved up out of the...
In the home, place the azalea in a brightly lit, cool location. An ideal site is near a window that receives bright light (but no direct sunlight) and temperatures of 60 to 65°F.
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Cleaning houseplants improves their appearance, stimulates growth, and may help control insects and mites. Large-leaved plants may be cleaned with a mild dishwashing soap solution (add a few drops of dishwashing soap to lukewarm water) and...
Winter (December through February) is the best time to prune oak trees in Iowa. Pruning oak trees in winter greatly reduces the risk of an oak wilt infection.
Oak wilt is a fungal disease that is lethal to many oaks. It...
Narrow and broadleaf evergreens lose considerable amounts of moisture through their leaves or needles, buds, and stems during the winter months. The loss of water is mainly due to strong winds and sun. Once the ground freezes, however...
Plant the tulip bulbs as soon as possible. Tulips and other spring-flowering bulbs can be planted as late as December if the soil isn’t frozen. After planting, cover the area with several inches of straw, pine needles, or leaves....
Lighting Requirements
Moth orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.) are one of the easiest orchids to grow indoors. Moth orchids grow best in bright, indirect light. Direct sun may actually harm the foliage. Ideal sites are...
Daffodil varieties that force well indoors include:
- ‘Barrett Browning’
- ‘Dutch Master’
- ‘February Gold’
- ‘Flower Record’
- ‘Fortune’
- ‘Ice Follies’
- ‘Jack Snipe’
- ‘Little Gem’...
Gather the fruit (capsules) of the buckeyes as soon as they fall to the ground. Dry the fruit for 1 or 2 days at room temperature until the capsules split, then remove the shiny, brown seeds.
The seeds of buckeyes and many tree...
No, there is no need to uncover the evergreens. The snow will not suffocate the evergreens. The snow acts like an insulating blanket and protects the evergreens from desiccating winter winds.
Tulip and daffodil foliage is usually present from late winter/early spring to early summer. The 4 to 6 week period after flowering is especially important. During this 4 to 6 week period, the foliage is manufacturing food for the...
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