Many, many years ago, the world looked much different than it does today—including the plants and trees we know now. Oak trees were one of the first tree species in the world, dating back to 56 million years ago. However, they started as one species or cultivar in one area—now, there are roughly 400 different types of oak trees all over the planet. Even though these trees have been around for a significant time, they’ve continued to develop and evolve throughout the centuries to become the mighty oaks we know and love today.
Most researchers believe that oak trees originated in the northern hemisphere, as they thrive in cooler temperatures. These trees were more common in the area we now know as Canada, but various climate changes caused them to expand to other regions on Earth. Around 30–40 million years ago, some areas became too cold for tropical plants to survive. As a result, oak trees took the opportunity to move south. This is most likely how oak trees became a common cultivar in what we now know as the United States of America.
Believe it or not, oaks have expanded to various places in Central America, South America, Africa, etc., as a result of climate changes and natural evolution. Because of the development of several varieties, oak trees can now withstand different climates and conditions to thrive worldwide.
It’s no secret that oak trees aren’t in low supply in our current society, and you can expect to see them growing and thriving in various parts of the world. Read on to learn more about where oak trees reside and how the climate impacts them.
Oak trees are very common in North America; in fact, they’re most prominent in Canada and the United States. On average, North America experiences relatively mild temperatures, making it one of the most convenient places for oaks to grow and thrive. Even though climates are different from one coast to another, there are oak varieties suitable for most areas in North America.
Central America is yet another home to oak trees. Despite the increasingly tropical weather in this region, some oak tree cultivars, like red oaks, can grow in Central America. Interestingly, most of this area is a tropical rainforest. Therefore, these oak trees grow among other tree species, such as rosewood, ebony, mahogany, cedarwood, etc.
Europe has a relatively mild climate, with cool to warm summers and cold winters. Because this region is more like the original climate and conditions oaks grew in, it’s still a perfect place for extensive oak forests. English oak trees are the most popular cultivar you’ll find in European regions.
Asia is an incredibly large area, and the climate depends on the specific location. For instance, southern Asia is relatively hot, but northern sections can be very cold. Still, east Asia is similar to Europe: temperate and mild. As a result, oak trees are a native species to East Asia.
Now that you know some common places you might find oak trees, you should also learn a little more about the different types. Follow along for the major oak cultivars.
Here are some of the major oak varieties and a little extra information about each one.
White oaks are the most prominent in North America, and they’re unique because the trees grow both male and female flowers. As a result, they’re self-pollinating trees. White oaks are beautiful, and the wood is great for whiskey barrels: it helps maintain a rich flavor profile.
Red oak trees are common in northern regions, as they prefer cooler climates. Because of their incredibly rapid growth rate, red oaks are an excellent choice for landscaping on a larger scale.
Pin oaks are one of the most popular variety choices for many people. These trees harbor gorgeous green foliage in the summer months and red or bronze leaves in the fall. Interestingly, pin oak leaves and bark may also have helpful medical benefits for colds and work as a bug repellant.
Willow oak trees are beautiful trees with slender leaves, similar to a willow tree. Because of their unique leaf shape, willow oaks are great choices for those who want something different. Additionally, they tolerate various soil and growing conditions, making them relatively low-maintenance trees.
Oak trees have an incredibly long history, leading many people to have a deep admiration for them. Interestingly, oak trees have various symbolisms, including strength, endurance, wisdom, understanding, etc. You’ve probably heard them referred to as mighty oaks, and for good reason. These beautiful trees are incredibly stable and robust, with extensive life spans. Oaks have been around for a long time, but each tree also lives for extended periods. In other words, they live a lot of life—this is why many people associate them with resilience and wisdom.
After learning more about the evolution of oak trees and why we admire them, you might consider purchasing potted oak trees to add to your property. Almost everyone has seen an oak tree in their life; however, they might not believe that these incredible trees start as tiny acorns. But they do, and acorns are the fruit of beloved oak trees. Because they’ll be around for a while, they make great housewarming gifts for new couples. Furthermore, oak trees are great family trees—track your family’s growth and progress with regular pictures in front of your mighty oak tree.
]]>Various animals eat blueberries, so you can’t do anything to stop them until you know who the culprits are. Here’s a limited list of some of the most prominent berry thieves:
As you can see, many creatures in nature are on the hunt for something sweet and delicious. Unfortunately, that means your blueberry bushes might be under attack—read on to learn various ways to protect your plants and deter animals.
Netting is one of the most simple yet effective solutions for protecting your berries from unwanted pests and animals. However, there are a few common issues you might run into. For instance, if you don’t secure the material to the ground, small animals, such as mice and chipmunks, may still be able to get under it to eat the berries. On the other hand, if you leave openings in the netting, some animals might be smart enough to find them and reach in to grab the berries.
Cages are yet another effective barrier to keep animals away from your berries. If you can’t find one big enough to fit over the tree with small-enough holes, you might be able to build your own. Consider creating a cube with thin PVC pipes to fit around the blueberry tree and wrapping the whole thing with chicken wire.
Hanging wind chimes is an incredibly simple way to scare animals away. Although we think the sounds of wind chimes are beautiful, they cause many animals to run in fear. Therefore, adding this simple but gorgeous feature to your garden is a win-win for you! Windchimes will simultaneously deter critters and make your garden more relaxing for you and your family.
You might think scarecrows are only for Halloween, but that’s certainly not the case. In fact, their original purpose was to scare pests away from large crop fields. If they work for farmers, they could work for backyard gardeners too. Consider putting up a few scarecrows around the garden to scare small animals away.
Another option is to put up plastic predators. An owl statue is one of the most common for gardens, as many animals see them as dangerous. No matter what you decide, using scare tactics to keep unwanted animals out of your garden can’t hurt.
Consider moving your decoys frequently to trick the animals into believing they’re real, living beings.
If you have a dog, you probably won’t need a decoy. Instead, letting your dog roam throughout your yard is one of the best ways to keep other animals away from your home. In the same way that dogs can smell other animals, other animals can smell dogs. As a result, small creatures are less likely to come near your yard or garden if your dog’s scent is all over the property. Even if your pup isn’t a guard dog, their presence might be enough to deter plotting creatures from stepping on your property.
Even though this tip might seem silly, animals aren’t fond of reflective or shiny items because they associate them with danger. Therefore, hanging old CDs or aluminum foil pans around your blueberry bushes is an excellent way to protect your plants. Because they’re reflective and make noise in the wind, CDs and foil pans prevent most animals from coming near your property.
As we previously mentioned, all animals leave some kind of scent, some of which comes from their urine. Using this to your advantage, you can use predator urine as a repellant for other animals. Whether it comes from wolves, cats, dogs, etc., applying urine around your bushes is an excellent way to prevent other animals from eating your berries.
Be sure to reapply the urine to the area after rainfall to ensure a strong scent.
If you’re not fond of handling animal urine, consider creating a homemade repellant instead. Many potent foods and spices make great repellants, as small animals don’t like the smell. For instance, garlic, cayenne pepper, vinegar, cinnamon, and peppermint are a few household items you can use in the garden to deter animals.
Installing a bird bath is a great way to help birds in the area, but it might also distract them from eating your berries. Interestingly, birds that eat berries might not be hungry; rather, they’re thirsty. Therefore, a bird bath provides them with water so they don’t need to get it from your blueberries. This way, honeybees, birds, and other pollinators will have a safe place to get water, and you don’t lose blueberries in the process.
Even though there are many ways to protect your blueberry bushes from animals, you should also consider planting more than you need. This way, if animals do get a hold of some of your berries, you’ll most likely still have plenty for yourself. And if all your deterrents work and you wind up with extra berries, you can give the extras to friends and family members!
Hopefully, having the ultimate guide to protecting blueberries from animals removes any doubts you have about looking for blueberry trees for sale. Growing fresh fruit in your garden is one of the greatest joys, and knowing how to deter critters from eating it is one of the most significant keys to success.
]]>When it comes to planting your pecan tree, timing is an important factor to consider. Therefore, you must choose between bare-root or potted options depending on your personal preferences. For instance, potted options allow you to plant at your convenience; as long as you keep your young pecan trees moist, they can sit anywhere outdoors in their pots until you’re ready to put them in the ground. On the other hand, bare-root trees allow for much less leniency—you should plant them within a few days of receiving them.
While your plants and trees will give back to you after they reach maturity and fruitfulness, you shouldn’t stretch your budget in the beginning. That said, some trees are more expensive than others. Potted pecan trees come with a higher level of convenience, but they also come with a bigger price tag. In most cases, you won’t find potted options for lower prices than bare-root trees, so if your budget for gardening isn’t extensive, bare-root trees may be your best option.
The root system is arguably the most important factor that determines a tree’s overall health. A tree might not be as robust and resilient if the root system doesn’t develop properly, which is more common when planting potted trees. Because bare-root trees usually have straight roots, they’re easy to plant with little pruning or intervention. Meanwhile, potted trees often have jumbled roots packed in the container, which you must trim and detangle before putting the tree in the ground.
When deciding whether you should plant bare-root or potted pecan trees, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a wide variety of grafted pecan trees, visit Plant Me Green online. We offer an excellent variety of pecan trees you can grow right at home.
]]>You’ve probably heard that exercising can lower your stress levels, but going to the gym might not appeal to you. Although everyone needs some form of physical activity, it doesn’t have to look the same for each person. Interestingly, gardening is an excellent form of low-impact exercise and it can significantly reduce your stress levels. Because gardening involves physical activity and routine tasks, it’s likely to put your mind at ease.
Many people are quick to latch on to indoor hobbies, but it’s no secret that spending time outdoors is usually good for your mental health. Planting a garden or trees on your property is an excellent way to ensure you spend enough time outdoors connecting with nature. Although you might not always want to be outside, tending to your plants can keep you grounded and strengthen your connection to the natural world.
Leave your cell phone inside when you tend your garden—it can help you disconnect from the chaos of life and aid in relaxation.
If you’re struggling to find your purpose or satisfaction in the current chapter of your life, growing plants, trees, and flowers in your yard might help. Because most plants require watering, pruning, fertilizing, and other forms of nurturing, you’ll always have a role to play in their growth. Even though it might not seem like much, keeping trees healthy and growing fruit successfully can give you a beautiful sense of satisfaction.
After learning three ways gardening benefits your mental health, you might consider visiting a plant and tree nursery to create your own backyard garden. Whether you want to grow large trees or a simple herb garden, this hobby adds tremendous value to your life.
]]>Because oak trees have incredibly expansive root systems, they can stabilize the soil where they grow and improve its quality. In fact, these gorgeous trees prevent soil erosion because their roots and foliage create a buffer against rainfall. Additionally, oak trees may remove and neutralize pollutants in the soil, making it safe and healthy for other plants and animals.
Wildlife in your area endures the harsh elements all year. Animals can utilize trees and other things in nature to create homes. Because oaks are mighty trees, many animals take shelter in or around them.
Oak trees are an excellent food source for many animals. Whether they feed on fallen leaves, sticks, or acorns, small animals like birds, squirrels, and deer enjoy the benefits of oak foliage. Local wildlife might get food from many other plants, but oaks are among the most prominent choices.
Pollution is inevitable in our world, but trees can help—especially oaks! A single oak tree can absorb up to 10 pounds of pollution annually. These trees can live to be up to 400 years old; think of how many contaminants they can remove in that time! You can boost the air quality in your area by planting oak trees on your property.
Now that you know why oak trees are important to the ecosystem, you might be looking for oak trees for sale to add to your landscaping. Visit Plant Me Green online for a wide variety of plants, trees, and planting and growing advice.
]]>There’s nothing better than extra-fresh fruits and vegetables, but it’s not always high-quality when it comes from the grocery store. Unfortunately, there’s a chance they’re already spoiled or mushy by the time you purchase your tomatoes or peppers. However, your fruits and veggies will always be fresh when you grow them at home in your garden.
Aside from actually eating the food you grow, gardening is a healthy hobby. Because it forces you to spend more time outdoors, you’ll connect with nature and soak up vitamin D from the sun. Additionally, you’ll be off the couch and getting physical activity, which is positive for your physical and mental health. Even if you don’t have much experience with gardening, it can become a crucial part of your lifestyle.
Eating healthily isn’t always easy or desirable, especially when you have the choice between buying chips and cookies or bananas and greens from your local grocery store. When you grow fresh produce in your garden, you’ll have more motivation to eat nutritious food options. If you grow it yourself, you’ll take pride in your gardening skills, and you won’t want any of it to go to waste.
Starting a garden with your children is an excellent way to encourage healthy food choices—they’ll be more likely to eat their veggies if they helped grow them in the yard.
Although it’s relatively common to buy fresh produce from the store, you never truly know what chemicals the farmers and manufacturers used on them during the growth process. That said, you could be putting toxins into your body without knowing it. Luckily, you’re in control of what you use in your garden when you grow your own fruits and vegetables. Harsh pesticides may keep pests away, but they also damage your health if ingested.
Bonding with your family is important, but it’s not always simple. Your kids might have their own hobbies, and you probably have yours. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start a garden together. Building stronger connections with your family members is good for your mental health, and bonding over a garden is great for your physical, mental, and emotional health.
After learning a few ways growing your own food improves your health, you might look for starter plants and trees at an online fruit tree nursery. Growing your own food isn’t always simple, but it’s always worth it—start your garden today!
]]>Even though many eat berries, apples, bananas, and similar “staple” fruits on a daily basis, pomegranates are an uncommon choice for most. In fact, you might not even see them on your local grocery store shelves among all the other fruit choices. If you want to take the path less traveled, consider doing so in terms of your fruit. While pomegranates might not be everyone’s first choice, they’re delicious and beneficial enough to come in first place.
Pomegranate seeds are amazing! They’re sweet, tangy, and nutritious, making them an excellent choice for a snack. If you’ve never had pomegranate seeds, you should make a point to try them as soon as possible—they might become your new favorite food. Almost everyone who tries them loves them. So, consider adding them to your diet, whether you’re really good about eating enough fruit or you can’t remember the last time you ate a piece.
Cover them with melted chocolate for a savory and fruity snack or dessert.
These unique fruits have the traditional sweetness you’d expect from other options, but pomegranates are incredibly versatile. Interestingly, ancient civilizations used them as a seasoning or marinade to make their food taste better. Although we don’t have to do this anymore, you should try it! Pomegranates can add an authentic flavor profile to meat, salads, and many other snacks and meals. Adding pomegranate seeds to a salad is one of the best ways to use them in your daily diet.
Aside from the flavor and use, growing pomegranates has many benefits to your health. For instance, if your blood pressure is somewhat higher than it should be, eating pomegranates daily may help lower it naturally. Even though this isn’t a surefire solution for everyone, it’s a popular treatment for many. High blood pressure is usually a silent health condition, as most are unaware of it until their doctors measure it—don’t ignore it, as it can lead to more severe health concerns.
If you have low blood pressure or are on blood pressure medication, pomegranates might not be the best choice. Unfortunately, they might drop your blood pressure too much.
Pollutants in the air and toxins from the external world can get into our bodies and release free radicals. These free radicals can cause oxidative stress inside our bodies, which contributes to chronic illness. With that said, fruits packed with antioxidants work against free radicals to keep your body and immune system healthy and strong. Pomegranates are one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits, and they can boost your overall health if you add them to your weekly fruit consumption.
If you’re looking for a tasty, heart-healthy snack, pomegranate seeds are a perfect choice. Because of the fatty acids and polyphenolic compounds in pomegranates, they may support a healthy heart and prevent heart disease. If your doctor has concerns about your heart or developing heart disease, consider adding pomegranate seeds to your daily diet. Because they also support healthy blood pressure, it’s only natural for a healthy heart to be another result of consuming pomegranates.
Nothing is worse than fungal or bacterial infections, as they usually require medical attention and medication to rid them from your body. However, pomegranate seeds might effectively fight some bacteria and candida that can cause painful or itchy infections. Although pomegranates may not be the best line of defense for severe infections, they’re definitely a great solution for minor conditions.
Cancer is a terrible illness, and it causes many deaths every year. Even though it’s not an exact science for treatment or prevention, pomegranates may reduce cancer cell growth and even cause cell death. While you should always seek advice from a medical professional with experience in cancer treatments, it can’t hurt to add pomegranates to your diet in the spirit of prevention. Nobody wants to fight cancer at any stage or severity; therefore, doing everything possible to stay healthy is an excellent way to prevent cancer cells from forming and multiplying.
Digestive health is incredibly important for everyone, as it can determine your overall health and well-being. Even though you might not realize your health concerns stem from gut issues, your digestive health stems from the probiotics, or good bacteria, in your gut. That said, probiotics can’t operate alone—they need prebiotics for fuel, which is usually fiber. Fortunately, pomegranates are a good source of fiber, meaning they help feed and boost the healthy bacteria in your digestive system.
There’s nothing worse than feeling exhausted shortly after starting your workout. Unfortunately, this is usually a result of running on an empty tank when it comes to your body’s nutrition. Fruit is an incredibly beneficial pre-workout snack, as they contain polyphenols, which may increase the amount of time you can participate in physical activity before exhaustion. Furthermore, pomegranates might also decrease the amount of time it takes for your muscles to recover after a workout.
After learning several benefits of growing your own pomegranates at home, you might consider adding a few trees to your property. Aside from getting fresh fruit from the trees, they also work as amazing scenery in your landscaping. If you’ve ever seen a pomegranate tree, you know that the color is absolutely stunning.
Not much can beat the flavor of fresh, homegrown fruit, and you can enjoy your harvest when you buy pomegranate trees for your backyard. Visit Plant Me Green online for a wide variety of new plants and trees.
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Persimmon trees are some of the most beautiful plants out there, as their foliage and fruit are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Many people would know an apple, pear, or crabapple tree if they saw one; however, most people in the US haven’t seen a persimmon tree. Persimmons don’t appear as a typical fruit because they’re actually berries. If you see these unique fruits on their tree, you may think they’re tomatoes.
With that said, persimmons aren’t tomatoes, and they don’t have a similar flavor. Here are a few intriguing characteristics of a typical persimmon tree.
There is more than one type of persimmon fruit, and all varieties fall into two categories: astringent and non-astringent. Astringent persimmons are best when you allow them to ripen for a few days after removing them from the tree. They should feel soft when you eat them, and this type is the sweetest. On the other hand, you can eat non-astringent persimmons directly from the tree. These aren’t as sweet as the others, and they’re more hard and crunchy, like an apple.
While these persimmon types are very different, they have unique but valuable characteristics. Trying both types is the best way to determine your favorite.
Interestingly, persimmon trees are dioecious, meaning that the male and female flowers grow on separate trees rather than the same. However, these gorgeous trees may have a few perfect flowers containing both male and female reproductive organs. The male flowers are pink in color, while female flowers are usually white or cream in color.
Even though many different trees have oval leaves, you should know that persimmon trees have vibrant, green, oval leaves in the spring and summer months. During the fall, these green leaves will turn shades of red and purple for a beautiful and unique change of scenery.
The main character of persimmon trees is the fruit itself. These gorgeous fruits range from an inch to 3½ inches in size and are a vibrant orange color. Many people describe their appearance and texture as a typical tomato; however, their flavor is much sweeter than that familiar fruit. Interestingly, these tasty fruits are very popular for eating fresh, in baked goods, jams, and more, making them a valuable addition to your property.
Tree bark is one of the most telling features of different varieties, and persimmon tree bark is no exception. Intriguingly, this bark is usually medium to dark gray in color with a blocky, chunky texture and appearance. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon to see an orange tinge coming through the cracks in the bark of a persimmon tree.
Believe it or not, persimmons came from Japan originally. In 1851, Admiral Matthew Perry learned of this wonderful fruit on the coast of Japan and decided to introduce them to the United States. Unfortunately, he tried to plant and grow them from seeds in Washington, DC but was unsuccessful. Because the winters were much too harsh and cold on the east coast of the United States, these trees didn’t turn out how he’d hoped.
However, the USDA decided to give planting persimmons another try by introducing grafted Japanese persimmon cultivars to Georgia and California around 1870. This attempt was much more successful. Additionally, the USDA also conducted many successful persimmon trials in the state of Florida. In fact, the sunshine state is still one of the most popular persimmon-growing regions in the country.
Persimmon trees are relatively tolerant to most soil conditions and may even tolerate clay or dry soil types; however, they prefer slightly acidic soil. In addition, these fruit trees are drought-tolerant after maturity, making them mostly low-maintenance additions to your property. However, they require well-drained soil to prevent various unwanted pests and diseases.
Even though these trees are resilient in droughts, you should consider adding a significant amount of water to the soil around them when you can. Aside from watering, there isn’t much you need to do to maintain happy, healthy persimmon trees.
If you want to change the tree’s structure or encourage new growth, consider pruning dead or unhealthy limbs and branches to ensure your tree bears the best fruit. You should prune when the tree is dormant in the late winter or early spring. Once the growing season begins, open wounds increase the threat of illness for your trees.
Fertilizer is essential for most trees, but persimmon trees don’t need it to survive or thrive after maturity. If you want to add fertilizer to your trees, you can apply 10-10-10 fertilizer to the soil in the late winter or early spring. However, fertilizer isn’t entirely necessary if your persimmon tree has a robust root system and bears fruit consistently.
After learning more about persimmon trees, what they are, and where they came from, you may want to add a few to your property. Most people have never had a persimmon, as they’re incredibly fragile. Even if your grocery store has them, they may be expensive or lacking quality, as they typically spoil during transport.
That said, those that grow them in their backyard have the advantage of fresh, delicious persimmon fruit whenever they desire. Eat them fresh, bake them into yummy treats, or turn them into jam; regardless, persimmons are one of the world’s most unique and tasty fruits.
]]>Many people question whether they can eat crabapples, and the answer is yes! Like any other apple, this fruit is perfectly safe for humans to consume. Even though it’s not one of the fruits you might pick up at the local grocery store, it’s more likely to come across crabapples in nature.
While the flesh of crabapples is safe and healthy to consume, the pit and seeds contain a compound that can turn to cyanide in your body—avoid eating these.
While there’s nothing wrong with eating crabapples, you might feel apprehensive about trying something new. If you still feel unsure about this fruit, remove the core, seeds, stem, and leaves, then wash it thoroughly before consuming. This way, there’s no chance of consuming any toxic chemicals. Furthermore, be sure the fruit isn’t rotten or moldy, as this can cause illness.
Aside from health concerns, you should also know that not all crabapples taste good; some are extremely bitter or tart. If you try one crabapple and don’t love it, don’t be afraid to try again—the next one might be perfectly sweet and delicious.
There are many fruit trees in existence; as a result, it may be challenging to identify a crabapple tree. Consider these characteristics to ensure you’re picking fruit from the right tree.
Now that you know you can eat crabapples, you might consider planting flowering crabapples on your property. Even though regular apples might be more desirable to some, you can enjoy crabapples in many different manners.
]]>It’s no secret that sunlight is one of the most important factors when it comes to growing plants, trees, and flowers, and crape myrtles are no exception. These gorgeous trees need full or at least partial sun exposure to thrive at their full potential. Because crape myrtles are prone to mildew issues, sunlight is crucial for keeping them healthy. Additionally, their blooms may not be as prolific in full or partial shade.
Fertilizer is important for tree growth, but crape myrtles don’t need excessive amounts. Also, it would be best to fertilize these trees only during the growing season. If you want to encourage flower brightness and increased blossoms, a slow-release fertilizer option with equal parts potassium, nitrogen, and phosphate is the best choice. Excessively fertilizing a crape myrtle may encourage more leaves to grow than flowers—avoid overdoing it.
Pruning is one of the best ways to encourage new growth for most trees, but crape myrtles don’t need much pruning. However, you can remove dead or tangled branches, tree suckers, and odd shapes in late winter or early spring to maintain the best and most beautiful crape myrtle. The best growth comes from new wood, but over-pruning is possible.
Crape myrtles are excellent trees because they’re relatively low-maintenance and don’t have complicated requirements. In fact, most can tolerate multiple soil pH levels, but neutral or slightly acidic soil is best. However, crape myrtles need well-drained soil, as they’re susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Even though water is crucial for plant and tree growth, crape myrtle flowering trees are somewhat drought resistant. They need daily watering to establish a strong root system for the first few weeks after planting them. However, you don’t have to continue this regimen after the first month—just make sure the soil is somewhat moist around the base of the tree.
After learning a few tips to help you care for crape myrtle trees, you can nourish these stunning flowering wonders. Adding color to your property is great for your curb appeal, and crape myrtles are a perfect way to make your yard bold and bright.
]]>Leaf-curl plum aphids are one of the most common plum tree pests, as they’re tiny insects that attack the leaves and cause eventual plant death. Aphids are tiny, under half of an inch in size; these little insects love to feed on plum tree leaves. Aphids are usually associated with the appearance of curled leaves. Many people believe that curled leaves on their plum tree result from another disease or virus, but these insects are generally the culprit.
Plum sawflies are incredibly frustrating pests for many gardeners because they can damage an entire crop of plums. These annoying insects tend to burrow themselves into a fruit without leaving much evidence and then eat it from the inside out. With that said, many plum gardeners won’t even know about a plum sawfly infestation until it’s too late. Infestation may appear like a minor blemish on the exterior skin; however, it may look ruined when you cut into the plum.
A plum curculio is a type of beetle that infests plum trees, and they may cause the fruit to fall from the tree prematurely. As the larvae hatch, they burrow themselves inside the fruit and eat it from the inside. You might see small crescent-shaped markings on the outside of the fruit, which usually indicates a curculio infestation. Shortly after, the plums will fall off the tree.
Now that you know the three common plum tree pests all gardeners should know, you can purchase plum trees online without reservation. Even though there are a few pests to be aware of, plum trees are resilient and relatively low-maintenance—buy one today and grow fruit in your backyard garden!
]]>Most pear varieties are ready to come off their trees in August and September, but there are a few signs you should look for before picking them.
Once you notice the common signs your pears are ready to separate from the tree, you should remove them gently. After all, pears are relatively fragile during this stage, and you can damage them by pulling them from the branch with force. If you believe your pears are ready for harvest, lift each individual pear and roll it up on its stem; this should be enough to separate them from the branches. If the pears require more force, they probably need a few more days.
Many other fruits are table ripe right off the tree, but that’s not the case for pears. Even though they may be ready to come off the branch, they’re probably not quite ready to eat. Leaving them on the tree longer might be your first instinct, but this can cause the pears to become over-ripened. After harvesting your pears from the trees, they’ll need three to five days in room temperature conditions to become fully ripe.
After learning the essential pear harvesting techniques you need to know, you can look for pear trees for sale to add to your property. There’s nothing better than enjoying fresh, homegrown fruit, and having pear trees in your backyard is an excellent way to boost the environment while gaining unlimited access to a unique fruit.
]]>When it comes to growing blueberries in your yard, you must first select your variety. There are a few different cultivars to choose from, and the best one for you depends on your location and specific needs. Decide for yourself which blueberry bush is right for your property.
Highbush blueberries are native to the eastern part of the United States, but there are northern and southern highbush blueberries.
Interestingly, highbush blueberries are the most popular variety for beginning gardeners, as they’re relatively easy to care for and self-pollinating. Highbush cultivars will produce up to 10 pounds of fruit without another blueberry bush nearby.
Lowbush varieties thrive in the northern states and Canada. They’re often wild there. These cultivars thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 6 and usually don’t grow more than 4 feet tall. Furthermore, lowbush blueberry bushes require cross-pollination with another blueberry bush to produce fruit.
Rabbiteye varieties are native to the southeastern states because they thrive in USDA Zones 6 to 9. This cultivar is suitable for locations with hot summers and rather mild winters. These beautiful bushes may grow up to 10 feet and produce nearly 15 pounds of fruit. However, these blueberry bushes require another rabbiteye cultivar nearby for cross-pollination.
After choosing the best variety for your location and personal preferences, you must now choose the right spot on your property. With that said, you must consider the following factors when it comes to selecting a permanent site for your blueberry bushes.
Light is incredibly important when growing blueberries. Be sure to choose a sunny spot for your bush, as they prefer sunlight for the best yield. Although blueberry bushes can withstand shade, they’ll most likely produce less fruit as a result of time in the shade.
Because blueberries thrive in acidic soil, you should ensure your soil measures in the pH range of 4.0 to 5.5. If the pH is too high, your blueberry bushes may grow slowly or even die. If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH levels, consider testing it before planting the bushes. Aside from the pH, the ground around the plant should be moist but well drained.
Because blueberry bushes are shallow-rooted plants, they require soil that holds moisture but doesn’t stay soaked. With that said, blueberry bushes still require water to thrive. If your area isn’t experiencing adequate rainfall, you may need to provide supplemental waterings.
Many gardeners choose to plant blueberry bushes in clusters to increase the overall yield they get from their homegrown trees. That said, they do require their own space to thrive to their full potential. Consider planting blueberry bushes at least 5 feet apart in their row, with 10 feet between rows to allow for easy harvesting.
Once your blueberry bush is in the ground, the care doesn’t stop there. Although these bushes are relatively low maintenance, you may have to conduct some upkeep to ensure they stay healthy and productive.
Fertilization is important for healthy plants, but you should fertilize your blueberry bushes in the spring for the best results. However, you should use fertilizers sparingly, as too much can cause damage to your blueberry bushes. High-nitrogen options may encourage overall growth but limit fruit production. Therefore, you should avoid them with blueberries.
During the first few years of plant growth, you don’t need to prune your blueberry bushes. After these years, you should prune them in February or March. Remove any diseased, dead, or discolored twigs or branches, and prune the low growth around the base to encourage new growth.
Harvesting your berries is the most exciting part about growing the bushes in your yard, and the best harvest times are anywhere between May and August, depending on the variety. Keep in mind that your berries will be at their most ripe and flavorful a few days after they turn completely blue.
When you’re ready to harvest the berries, simply brush the fruit-bearing branches. Perfect berries should fall off the branch into your hand. Collect them in a shallow container to avoid damaging them. Once you get them inside your home, you can store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or up to 12 months in the freezer.
Avoid washing your blueberries before storing them. They have a natural protective coating on the outside of their skin to prevent premature spoiling, and they’ll last much longer with this coating intact. Wash them before eating rather than when you take them from the bush.
Although most people grow their blueberry bushes in the ground, you can also plant them in a container. Using a container or a raised bed makes it much easier to maintain your growing condition factors, such as soil and sunlight.
Be sure to use a container that’s at least 24 inches wide and tall to give your tree enough space to grow. Place the potted bush in a sunny spot, moving it as necessary to follow the sunlight throughout each day and over the months. Additionally, you should ensure the soil stays moist year round for the best possible results.
Now that you have the ultimate guide to successfully growing blueberries, you can make the most of your gardening experience. Blueberries are delicious and nutritious fruits. You don’t have to rely on finding them at the grocery store when you grow them on your property. No matter the season, you’ll be able to enjoy homegrown blueberries for smoothies, muffins, or a fresh snack.
]]>The short answer is yes, you can eat purple-leaf plums. Many believe these plum trees are purely ornamental, as not all of them produce fruit. Additionally, these unique plums are small in size; in fact, they’re only slightly bigger than cherries. As a result, many people call them cherry plums.
Even though most edible fruit tastes great all the time, there’s no guarantee when it comes to purple-leaf plums. If you find a good tree, the fruit will taste sweet and juicy with a hint of tartness. On the other hand, if you choose an unripe cherry plum, it’ll taste extremely sour, like a lemon or lime. Generally, leaving the fruit on the tree longer will increase the sweetness of the flavor profile, but it’s not always this way—many purple-leaf plum trees only produce tart or sour fruits.
Although purple-leaf plums tend to be tart or sour, you can use them for other purposes rather than eating them fresh. Many people use these little plums for baking tasty muffins, pies, cakes, and more, while others use them to make jam or jelly. By pairing these plums with sweet additives, the flavor becomes incredible. Like many other fruits, you can also preserve purple-leaf plums by canning them.
Now that you know purple-leaf plums are edible, you can try some to decide for yourself whether or not they taste any good. Even if you don’t like these plums, there are many varieties available, and you can buy plum trees online to cultivate your own. Plums aren’t a common fruit choice, but they have a unique flavor profile and are great for a variety of purposes.
]]>Dragonflies and damselflies are beneficial insects, as they prey on harmful bugs. They tend to make their homes near water and lay their eggs there. Interestingly, their eggs hatch into larvae that feed on the larvae of other flying insects in the area. You may also know that flies, gnats, and mosquitos gravitate toward the water; dragonflies and damselflies play a significant role in keeping harmful insect populations in check.
Lady beetles, also known as ladybugs, are extremely helpful for your garden. Aphids are the most common harmful insects, and they can cause the death of an otherwise healthy tree. As you can imagine, keeping aphids away from plants and trees is crucial; fortunately, lady beetles consume large quantities of aphids and mealybugs. However, lady beetles will also feed on pollen if no other insects are available, which will help pollinate your plants.
Many people are afraid of honeybees and bumblebees, but they’re generally harmless. In fact, bees work to pollinate a wide variety of plants. Although they will sting when provoked to defend themselves or their hives, bees aren’t an aggressive species. If you see honeybees or bumblebees in your yard, that’s a positive thing—they’re pollinating your yard to continue the cycle of healthy plants, trees, and crops.
Braconid wasps are one of many wasp types. Although they also aid in pollination, it’s not their primary job; instead, they’re great friends to vegetable gardeners. Hornworms are incredibly destructive when it comes to tomatoes and other vegetable plants, but braconid wasps use these creatures as a host for their eggs. Interestingly, braconid wasps lay their eggs in hornworms, taking over their bodies and producing more wasps.
Now that you know which insects are helping your trees, you can buy apple trees online to continue furthering your gardening knowledge. Insects are inevitable outdoors, but knowing which ones are friendly is the best way to determine whether you have a pest issue.
]]>Oak wilt is a disease that a fungus called bretziella fagacearum causes. This fungus invades the xylem, or water-conducting tissues, in oak trees. These tissues move water and minerals from the root system to the rest of the tree. Therefore, oak wilt can cause issues with nutrients, water, and sap flowing through the entire tree.
The black and red oak groups are more susceptible to oak wilt than the white oak group. Although there are no cures for this disease, you may be able to prevent it from spreading or occurring in the first place.
If a tree has open wounds, the fungus is more likely to attach and multiply within the water-conducting tissues. Unfortunately, this invasive fungus spreads through the entire tree after some time, which disrupts the sap flow throughout the limbs.
After oak wilt infects one tree, it can spread in one of two ways to other trees nearby:
To understand the signs and symptoms of oak wilt, you must first know the characteristics of a healthy oak tree. Healthy oak leaves are a vibrant green color with consistent texture, and bark growth cracks indicate positive growth. The tree tissue under the bark should be bright green or pink.
Now that you know what a healthy oak should look like, you can determine whether your oak trees are suffering from a disease. The first sign of oak wilt is wilting leaves that appear dull in color. After some time, these wilted leaves will turn a tan or bronze color toward the outer edges. The center of the leaves may remain green for a while, and the tree doesn’t always lose its leaves immediately.
Aside from the leaves, you may notice signs of disease in the tree’s bark. If you peel back the bark or look between the cracks, the outer tissue may appear black or brown. Even though the signs and symptoms of oak wilt seem clear, a positive diagnosis may require laboratory testing of samples from the tree or trees in question.
Oak wilt is one of the most severe tree diseases, as it spreads quickly, and there’s currently no cure. With that said, preventative measures are the best ways to keep your oak trees healthy and robust. Follow along for a few tips for preventing oak wilt.
Because there is no cure for this disease, a fungicide may be an effective measure when it comes to active prevention. If you know another oak tree on your property has oak wilt, you may want to consider propiconazole injections for your healthy trees. This way, they may have the upper hand when it comes to resisting fungal growth and infestation.
Open wounds on healthy trees increase the risk of oak wilt; therefore, you should avoid pruning them during the sap-feeding beetles’ active season, which is February through June. When you do prune your trees, consider protecting the wounds by coating them with pruning paint. Furthermore, sterilizing your gardening tools between pruning each tree is another great way to prevent spreading infection through the open wounds.
As previously mentioned, natural grafts in the root systems may occur in trees up to 50 feet apart. So planting your oak trees more than 50 feet apart effectively reduces the chances of oak wilt spreading to healthy trees.
Finding oak wilt can be daunting, as it can cause serious issues for every oak tree on your property. Although not having a cure for this disease is discouraging, there are a few immediate actions to take to salvage the healthy trees. If you notice it in the early stages, there’s a good chance it hasn’t spread very far yet—take action before more trees become infected.
After getting the positive results from the lab, the best thing to do is remove the infected tree or trees from the property. If you’re not confident in your ability to do this on your own, consider hiring a professional service to cut the trees down and dispose of them properly.
Cutting down the infected trees is the first step, but you also must be cautious about handling the wood. For instance, burning, debarking, or chipping large oak logs is the best way to prevent oak wilt from spreading after the tree is gone. In addition, avoid putting the chopped remains near healthy oak trees, as beetles can still spread the infection. If you have a pile of infected wood on your property, cover it with a hefty tarp and completely bury the edges. This will help prevent beetles from coming into contact with it.
Oak trees are mighty and robust—they’re able to withstand most other diseases and pests, but oak wilt is detrimental to their health. But now that you have a better understanding of oak wilt and how to prevent it, you can buy oak trees online and know how to care for them!
]]>Brown spot is a common fungal infection of mature pecan tree leaves that usually appears in June and July. This fungus is most common in areas with high humidity or neglected orchards, and it starts as small dots on the leaves. Eventually, they may get larger and cause leaves to fall unless you treat the issue.
Fortunately, healthy, well-kept pecan trees usually don’t suffer from brown spot. Keep your trees watered and fertilized for the best possible results. You can treat this fungus with a basic tree fungicide if your trees develop it.
Downy spot causes small yellow spots to appear on the leaves, which may turn brown later in the season and cause leaves to fall before they’re supposed to. Some pecan tree varieties are resistant to this fungus, but others are more susceptible. If you notice these yellow or brown spots on your pecan leaves, remove and destroy the infected ones. Consider using a preventative fungicide spray to keep it at bay.
Liver spot is a leaf fungus that usually appears in May or June. In late summer, the brown spots may turn reddish-brown and cause leaves to fall off the tree. Trees are more likely to fall victim to liver spot if they’re unhealthy or there’s an extended period of wet weather. With that said, keeping your trees healthy and using preventative fungicide spray are the best ways to keep liver spot from damaging your container-grown pecan trees.
Gnomonia leaf spot Is yet another fungal disease that may wreak havoc on your trees. However, it only impacts those that are deficient in zinc. Symptoms typically appear in June, and the brown spots expand as the fungus multiplies. Because this disease spreads quickly, you should clean up any infected and fallen leaves to prevent it from spreading further. Additionally, proper fertilization and fungicide prevention will help keep gnomonia leaf spot at bay.
Now that you know what those brown spots on your pecan tree leaves mean, you can move forward with necessary treatment options. Whether the pecan trees were already on your property or you added them intentionally, take care of them the best you can.
]]>Potassium is one of the most essential nutrients for a new tree because it encourages healthy growth and fruit-bearing capabilities. When a fruit tree doesn’t have enough potassium, it may not bear any fruit, or it could yield a diminished harvest. Potassium can protect your new trees from harm during the cold months, which is extremely important for continuous growth. A tree with sufficient potassium is less likely to suffer from disease and may fight off illness much quicker.
Nitrogen is arguably the most important nutrient for plants, as it helps them carry out vital functions to stay alive and well. Chlorophyll contains nitrogen in part, which helps plants transform soil, water, and sunlight into their food source. In addition, nitrogen is responsible for healthy leaf growth and the green vibrance you notice on healthy plants and trees. Many fertilizers contain a significant amount of nitrogen since plants and trees can’t survive without it.
Phosphorous is a necessary nutrient for a new tree; it helps the tree establish a robust root system. This nutrient might also help your trees produce fruit, seeds, and flowers. If your tree needs extra support to thrive or protect itself from unpleasant diseases and pests, phosphorous could be a perfect solution to ensure plant health and stability.
If you want to plant privacy trees around your property, you’ll definitely benefit from knowing more about the three nutrients you absolutely need for your newly planted tree. Fruit, privacy, and ornamental trees are excellent additions to your landscape, but you may not know the best practices when it comes to caring for young trees. These nutrients are a great place to start to ensure plant health.
]]>Pruning is the practice of removing certain sections from your trees and plants to control their shape and size or to encourage new growth. Pruning is an excellent solution to keep trees healthy and growing in the desired shape. Typically, this process involves cutting dead, diseased, or unfruitful branches of trees.
Unfortunately, you may feel uncertain about pruning your trees for the first time. You can learn the art of proper pruning, and you shouldn’t be afraid to experiment, read gardening books, or consult experts on plants.
As with many processes, there are various tools to add to your gardening shed to ensure proper pruning techniques for any plant or tree you may have on your property. Follow along to learn more about each of the most important trimming tools for your garden.
You can use motorized edge trimmers or electrical trimmers to shape the excess growth of your hedges and bushes. This garden tool uses reciprocating blades that create clean cuts very quickly. If you need to trim a tree or bush larger than your trimmers, many models have extensions to give your tool a larger range.
If your desired pruning area contains branches larger than ½ inch in diameter, you may need a pair of loppers to make the cut. Although you may be able to get it done with other tools, you don’t have to risk uneven or damaging cuts if you opt for loppers. This tool consists of larger pruners with longer handles for increased power, and you need it to cut thicker branches and stems.
Hand pruners are one of the most common tools to keep in your gardening shed, and they’re typically small enough to use with one hand or carry around in your pocket. This is the most popular tool to remove small, thin stems and branches from your trees and plants.
Pruning saws have curved blades with sharp teeth, making them an important tool for larger trees. This is the tool you should use when hand pruners or loppers aren’t strong enough to cut through a thicker branch. Fortunately, pruning saws also create clean cuts in order to prevent damage to your trees.
To maintain beautiful, healthy trees, you should remove broken, dead, or dying branches or stems as soon as you notice them. On the other hand, there are a few suggestions to consider before trimming your trees for shape or size purposes.
In the early spring, you should prune your evergreen hedges, pines, spruces, fruit-bearing trees, or trees and shrubs that flower in the summer. Many of these plants, trees, and shrubs require pruning to control their size, shape, and overall growth. If you don’t trim these plants, you may notice a stunt in their new growth. The timing is important because these plants and trees won’t be in an active growth period in early spring, but they need to be ready for growth in the spring or summer.
During the active spring season, you should prune your rose bushes by removing all of the dead branches and stems from the winter. After removing dead sections, you can continue to trim the bush to your desired height and shape.
You should wait until after the spring season to prune plants or trees that produce flowers during the spring, as they bloom on growth from the last season. In other words, they need the old wood to create their beautiful blossoms. You should trim these plants and trees shortly after their last bloom to ensure they look perfect. Otherwise, waiting too long can mean you’re removing the branches that will produce blossoms next spring.
When it comes to pruning or trimming your trees, less is more. You should know what you’re going to remove before you do so. After all, it’s always possible to make another cut if necessary, but you can’t reverse too deep of a cut. Here are a few of the things you should prune when you see them on your plants, trees, or shrubs.
Trimming trees properly is the key to maintaining their health and growth. Follow along for a few helpful tips to learn how to correctly cut your trees, shrubs, and hedges to encourage growth or a desired shape.
After learning the best practices for managing and trimming your trees, you can maintain your garden year after year. Gardening doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require new skills. If you want to buy apple trees for your yard, you shouldn’t let your fear of not being a good gardener stop you from trying. After all, growing fruit trees and other plant species on your property can be an extremely satisfying and helpful learning experience.
]]>It’s no secret that pest infestations can harm your garden, but pesticide use is a surefire way to harm beneficial animals and insects, such as pollinators and harmless animals. Many animals won’t come near your yard if you use these chemicals, and those that do may experience harm. Therefore, you can make your yard more appealing to bees, butterflies, birds, and squirrels by removing pesticides from your property. Fortunately, there are various natural ways to prevent pests from multiplying in your yard so that you don’t have to use pesticides.
Wildlife needs water just like we do. Many animals will travel as far as necessary to find a water source, but you can make the journey much shorter for them by adding a water source to your property. You don’t have to install a large pond, either. In fact, a small birdbath or bee pond can effectively provide water to local wildlife.
Planting trees and flowers is one of the most effective ways to attract wildlife, as seeds, nectar, pollen, and fallen fruit are some of the most prominent food sources for animals. When deciding which trees to plant, you should consider whether your desired species are native to your area. If they’re not, they may not thrive the way you want them to. Aside from providing food to wildlife, trees, plants, and flowers also create the perfect habitat or shelter for insects and animals.
If you’re looking for a unique tree to add to your property, consider celeste fig trees for sale. These beautiful trees are self-pollinating and suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7-9. You’ll be able to attract wildlife to your yard and harvest delicious, nutritious fruit.
Birds are magnificent creatures, and you may be able to provide a perfect home for them in your yard. If you want to see more birds on your property, consider adding various bird feeders containing seeds or nectar to provide a safe space for many bird species. You can also add birdhouses if you want these animals to stick around.
Brush and compost piles effectively create shelter, habitats, and a food source for local wildlife. You can create a safe space for various animal species on your property by creating brush or compost piles. This is a surefire way to ensure you see more wildlife in your yard and boost their safety in your local community.
Knowing a few ways you can attract wildlife to your backyard can help you create the ultimate safe space for animals, birds, and insects. You and your family can share a deep connection with nature by transforming your yard into an oasis that appeals to all kinds of wildlife.
]]>It’s incredibly challenging to put an exact date on a species’ origin, but it’s safe to say that oak trees have been around for quite some time. Oak trees are in the same family as chestnut trees and beech trees, and fossils indicate that the Fagaceae plant family has been around for more than 80 million years.
Although plants from this family have been around much longer than oaks themselves, fossils show evidence that oak trees have been around for close to 30 million years. Researchers found the earliest fossils providing evidence of oak trees in what is now known as the state of Georgia, meaning the US claimed it as an American tree.
Oak trees grow from their fruit, which is the acorn. Although oak trees produce many, many acorns, very few transform into trees, as they’re a common food source for wildlife.
The Druids were the intellectual class of people who were often philosophers, priests, and judges in France and Britain. Interestingly, oak trees were a significant part of their practices, and they sometimes worshiped them. The name of this group—Druids—comes from the Latin and Greek terms druides and drus, which both mean oak.
Druids believed that oak trees were sacred and directly from heaven. They performed religious rituals under them, climbed them to collect their leaves and fruits to use in medicines, and believed these trees harbored significant healing powers.
Oak trees also play a significant role in Roman and Greek mythology. Oaks were the sacred tree of Zeus and the oldest Hellenic oracle. Interestingly, priests held gatherings and offered advice or divine consultations beneath oak trees, and they believed Zeus could communicate through the oak tree.
Meanwhile, ancient Romans believed that oak trees were a symbol of Jupiter, and they also believed Jupiter passed wisdom to them through oak trees. Overall, oak trees were a crucial part of ancient Roman and Greek culture.
Some Slavic people believed that some of the gods they worshiped lived in oak trees, and they had various holy places in oak forests. Furthermore, the oak tree represented the world; the trunk and branches symbolized heaven and the living world, while the root system represented the underworld. In Baltic mythology, oaks are the sacred trees of the thunder god, who directs his thunder to evil spirits.
As Christianity spread across Europe, the oak tree followed. Many stories indicated that they crucified Jesus on a cross made of oak, and Christians also constructed various churches and cathedrals out of oak. Back in these early times, people built boats from various animal hides. However, Christians began building them from oak. Although Christians didn’t worship oak trees, they still used them in many ways in their religion and in daily life.
While it’s relatively uncommon for lightning to strike close to the ground, lightning is more likely to hit oak trees than any other tree. Because oak trees are very tall and have a higher water content, lightning seems to find them more frequently than other trees or structures. However, many cultures and religions believed their gods spoke to them through thunder, lightning, and oak trees.
The history of oak trees is incredibly intriguing, and they’re one of the longest-standing trees. Now that you know a little bit more about their role in various cultures and religions, you should also learn some of the symbolism behind these mighty trees. Follow along to explore some of the main values and concepts many people associate with oak trees to this day.
Believe it or not, the oak tree is an important symbol of love and commitment. Many people even believe they’re symbolic of the 80th wedding anniversary. Oak trees have a long lifespan, and it’s an excellent representation of the life the couple builds together, even though many couples don’t reach this milestone in their lifetimes.
As previously mentioned, the Druids believed that oak trees harbored extensive healing powers. Ancient people used parts of oak trees for medicinal purposes since the very beginning; in fact, oak is still a common ingredient in many holistic medicines. Furthermore, the Druids also believed that burning oak wood was an effective solution to protect them from harm, a practice that some carry on to this day.
You’ve probably heard the term “mighty oak” in reference to an oak tree, and that’s because it’s an incredible study tree that can withstand even the most horrendous weather conditions. The oak tree’s ability to tolerate almost anything makes it the perfect symbol of strength, stability, and power.
Many ancient cultures believed that oak trees were a vast source of wisdom and that the trees were a way for their gods would communicate with them. They hoped this knowledge from their gods and the oak trees could help them settle disputes and wars. Today, oak trees remain a symbol of knowledge.
After learning more about the history of oak trees and why people worshiped them, you may look at them slightly differently. Many people have oak trees on their property without even realizing or caring for them; luckily, these trees are very resilient and can survive different weather and climate conditions. If you don’t have oaks in your yard yet, you may want to consider buying oak trees online. Whether or not you have extensive gardening experience, you can grow oak trees—they require little care and are relatively low-maintenance additions to your landscape.
]]>It’s no secret that there are various blueberry types, but that doesn’t mean you should choose one and plant a bunch of them. In fact, this is one of the worst things to do. Blueberry bushes aren’t self-pollinating, so they need other blueberry varieties around for cross-pollination. You should consider planting a few different varieties near each other on your property.
You probably know that many plants and trees will tolerate various soil pH levels; however, blueberries are the exception. They don’t like soil that isn’t acidic—between 4.0 and 5.0 pH is the ideal range for blueberry bushes. If you’re unsure of your soil’s pH levels, test it before planting the bushes.
If the test reflects non-acidic soil, you can fix it. Consider using additives to bring your soil into the correct range for blueberries. You can also build a raised planter and give your bushes acidic soil.
Before ordering blueberry plants online, guarantee you have a spot with plenty of sunlight. Planting blueberry bushes in the shade is one of the worst things you can do, as the berries may not turn out sweet and tasty. Furthermore, the sun provides the light blueberry bushes need to grow and prevents poor airflow and plant diseases.
Blueberry bushes have shallow root systems, which means their roots can dry out quickly. Fortunately, you can protect your blueberry bushes from drying out by applying a layer of mulch to the bed, as it prevents moisture evaporation from the soil. Whether you choose wood chips or pine needles, mulching your blueberry beds in the fall and spring is a great way to prevent dry roots weed growth.
Hopefully, knowing these common mistakes when planting blueberry bushes will help you avoid them. Blueberries are one of the best fruits to add to your daily diet, and the bushes will continue producing fruit for many years if you care for them properly.
]]>The root system is arguably the most important part of a tree to consider when inspecting for health concerns, as the root system impacts the entire tree. Check to see if the ground around the tree is heaving, if mushrooms are growing around it, or if there’s any root damage. Checking the roots is crucial if you’ve recently done any extensive digging or other yard project nearby.
Fungus is an incredibly common thing to see on your tree. Therefore, you should check for fungus growth on the branches, trunk, and leaves. Unfortunately, fungus can grow very quickly—your tree may be clear one day and covered the next. Stay on top of fungal issues, and consider treatment options as soon as you notice it growing on your trees.
It’s not uncommon to see a leaning tree, but you may have to remove it if almost all of the root system is out of the ground. With that said, you may be able to salvage a young, leaning tree if you catch it on time. If you notice your young tree leaning toward one side or the other, you should immediately stabilize it using stakes or a complete staking kit.
If your tree is dying, a lack of leaves may be the first thing you notice. Similarly, if your tree doesn’t have leaves when it should or has leaves when it shouldn’t, it is likely unhealthy. Additionally, you should make sure the leaves are the proper shape, size, and color for the current season. If not, you may have to treat an issue or remove the tree from your property.
With a few helpful tips for checking the health of your trees, you can maintain strong trees in your yard. These tips will help you with a wide variety of tree and plant species. Gardening isn’t always easy, but keeping your plants and trees healthy is always worth the research and treatment.
If you want to get started growing trees or want to add more to your yard, check out the options from Plant Me Green. We have everything from apple trees to oak to pecan trees. Browse our website or contact us for more information!
]]>If your tree doesn’t already have mulch around its base, you should consider applying 1–3 inches to the ground around the trunk and expand about as far as the tree’s canopy. Interestingly, mulch protects the root system and helps retain moisture. During a dry season, you need as much help as you can get when it comes to water. This way, less water will evaporate into the air between waterings.
When your tree is healthy and thriving, pruning is an effective way to encourage new growth. However, it may make your tree vulnerable and add extra stress, which isn’t a huge issue for a healthy tree. On the other hand, pruning during the dry season can put trees at risk for health issues or death because the tree has to put so much energy toward sealing off the freshly pruned sections.
Although the rest of your yard and garden most likely needs water in a dry season, your trees should get special attention. You may think using a sprinkler to water your entire yard casually during a dry season is enough, but you should be watering your tree directly. Unfortunately, you won’t soak the roots entirely by using a sprinkler—apply water directly to the tree’s base instead.
Fertilizer is usually a good thing, but not in this case. In a drought, your trees aren’t lacking nutrients; they’re lacking water. With that said, applying fertilizer to your trees may draw more moisture from the roots and cause more damage. Therefore, avoid using fertilizer during the dry season to give your plants and trees time to recover before adding nutrients.
Now that you know the best ways to help your tree survive a dry season, you can search for peach trees for sale without worrying that you can’t care for them. Trees are beautiful, helpful additions to your property—don’t let the fear of caring for plants keep you from gardening.
]]>Powdery mildew is a type of fungus that can plague various plants, including crape myrtles. Unfortunately, this fungus thrives in humid weather conditions and warm climates, making it a relatively common occurrence during the spring and summer months.
You may be asking whether or not this tree illness is fatal, and the short answer is no. While powdery mildew isn’t usually disastrous, it may cause visible damage to your trees. For instance, this disease may stunt overall tree growth or kill branches as a result of stress.
Although it’s common to see powdery mildew on your crape myrtle trees, they’re not the only tree variety that you may see this on. Other tree types, like maple, oak, dogwood, and magnolia, are also prone to powdery mildew.
Although you may suspect your crape myrtle trees have powdery mildew, knowing how to identify it properly is important for gardeners. You probably already noticed the white spots at first glance, but you should look closer to confirm the diagnosis. Powdery mildew typically appears as white or gray spots on affected leaves. These spots may grow together slowly to form larger patches of gray or white fungus.
Although the fungus spots aren’t always a huge issue for your crape myrtle, they can cause other symptoms if you don’t treat the disease as soon as you notice it. If left untreated, powdery mildew can cause leaves to change colors and fall from the tree prematurely. Furthermore, you may have a shorter or narrower tree with fewer branches as a result of powdery mildew.
Treating pests and diseases in your plants and trees isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary to restore overall health and ensure growth and survival. Depending on your personal preferences, there are a few different options for treatment. Follow along to learn more about each and decide which type best suits your situation.
Fungicide is one of the most common treatment solutions to rid your plants and trees of powdery mildew and other fungus issues. This is an effective way to kill powdery mildew and keep it from spreading to other parts of the same tree or a different tree. Because there are various fungicides on the market, you should follow the instructions on the label of your chosen fungicide to ensure you administer it correctly. If you use the product accordingly, you can expect to see improvements within a few days, and your crape myrtle should fully recover.
If you don’t want to use chemical treatments on your plants and trees, you can always create a homemade solution. Believe it or not, baking soda is an effective option for fungus. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a quart of water, add this mixture to a spray bottle, and apply it to the affected areas of your tree, specifically the leaves. Be sure to coat both sides of the leaves.
Both treatment options are effective, but the consistent application is the key to a full recovery. It may take up to 10 days of treatment before your crape myrtle is in the clear after a powdery mildew infection. Starting treatment as soon as possible is vital to give your tree the best possible chances of survival.
Although treatment is usually successful, prevention is always a much better option. However, prevention isn’t always possible when it comes to fungus. Read on to learn a few pointers to reduce your crape myrtle tree’s chances of getting powdery mildew.
Because powdery mildew grows and multiplies in moist, warm areas, maintaining proper ventilation is crucial for your trees. Good airflow is one of the best ways to prevent powdery mildew, as it keeps your plants dry. If the fungus doesn’t have any moisture to stick to, it’ll be less likely to cause damage to your beautiful flowering tree.
Believe it or not, powdery mildew can travel through the air and spread to other trees, so it’s more likely to spread from surrounding plants if they’re too close together. Furthermore, if you plant your trees too close together, they may also work against each other for resources. As a result, this competition creates an environment for bacteria and fungi to grow and thrive.
Be sure to give your plants and trees space to grow on their own away from others. This is a small factor, but it can make all the difference when it comes to tree health.
You probably already know that plants and trees need water to survive, but you may not know the best watering practices to ensure healthy trees. It’s no secret the fungus multiplies in wet, dark places. Unfortunately, powdery mildew thrives at night. Therefore, you should consider watering your plants and trees in the morning to allow enough time for them to dry before dusk. Overall, early waterings are the best way to ensure your plants aren’t wet for extended periods, as they’re more likely to dry throughout the afternoon.
Gardening isn’t always easy, and many different things can go wrong. However, you shouldn’t let this stop you from planting gorgeous plants in your yard. Now that you know what that white stuff is on your crape myrtle, you can take the necessary steps to treat the issue and avoid it in the future.
Whether you’re a beginner or have extensive gardening knowledge, there’s always something new to learn about plants and trees. Add this helpful knowledge to your agricultural expertise to make yourself more successful in the garden.
]]>Flowering dogwood trees are some of the most stunning additions to your property, as they produce long-lasting white or pink blossoms in the spring. However, this isn’t the end of their encapsulating beauty—their leaves also turn a beautiful shade of red during the fall months, providing a change of scenery and lasting splendor.
Saucer magnolia trees are the perfect selection for those who want to catch the eye of anyone who passes. Magnolia blossoms can be as large as five inches in diameter, and typically light pink or white. These gorgeous trees thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and prefer partial shade. Interestingly, saucer magnolia trees turn golden brown during the fall, providing excellent autumnal scenery.
You may not think much about how to buy maple trees online, as they grow naturally in wooded areas. However, they’re one of the most low-maintenance trees that have provided endless beauty for many years. They grow up to 70 feet tall, making them a great choice for a shade tree. Maple tree leaves are a vibrant green color during the spring and summer months, but they gradually turn shades of red, yellow, and orange in the fall months.
Chaste trees—also known as Vitex—are attractive options to add a pop of color to your yard. Although these trees only grow up to 10 feet tall, their stunning clusters of white, blue, or lavender flowers will catch anyone’s eye. However, you should know that these trees may be an invasive species in specific locations; therefore, determine whether it’ll become an issue in your area before purchasing one.
Ginkgo trees are unique, as they’re not as common as other tree species. However, they produce gorgeous fan-shaped leaves that are the perfect shade of green in the summer months. Fascinatingly, these leaves gradually become an unbelievable shade of yellow when autumn comes around. Ginkgo trees thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, prefer full sun exposure, and slowly become the perfect shade trees as they mature.
After learning more about these five trees that add vibrant color to your landscape year-round, you’ll be able to choose incredible trees for your yard. Curb appeal is essential, and magically-colored trees are the perfect way to make your property more appealing.
]]>Saucer magnolias are absolutely beautiful, and they’re one of the first magnolia species to exist. In fact, other cultivars come from saucer magnolias. While their name indicates a specific shape, these blossom formations may range from saucers to tulips. Furthermore, their color may be anywhere from white to red or purple. This variety thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and may tolerate various weather and growing conditions.
Jane magnolias are one of the smallest magnolia trees, growing up to 15 feet tall. These small trees are perfect as an accent shrub or ornamental addition to your front yard. Jane magnolia blossoms are reddish purple on the exterior and white on the interior, making them unique and gorgeous flowers. Because they produce a sweet fragrance, jane magnolias are the perfect trees to add to your outdoor oasis.
Sweetbay magnolia trees grow up to 50 feet tall, making them an excellent choice for shade trees. This gorgeous tree produces cream-colored flowers that smell slightly lemony; these blossoms open in late spring or early summer. You should also know that these trees thrive in USDA hardiness zones 6-10 and grow best in shaded areas and wet soil.
Star magnolias are another small variety, making them the perfect choice for a tiny space or a small garden. These unique trees may grow between three and ten feet tall and thrive in USDA zones 4-9. Interestingly, these blossoms are four to five inches in diameter but may have up to 50 petals. Star magnolia flowers are usually white but may be shades of pink. These trees also bloom the earliest of most magnolia varieties and are hardy enough to resist frost.
It can be challenging to decide which magnolia tree is a fit for you and your yard, but this information should help. Consider buying your favorite magnolia trees online and planting them in the perfect spot as soon as possible. You won’t regret adding this touch of beauty and color to your property, as magnolia trees delightfully appeal to your senses.
]]>Like many other trees and shrubs, pomegranate trees start with a seed. Believe it or not, these seeds will begin germinating even if they aren’t in the ground properly. If you want to start growing a tree from a pomegranate seed, you should plant it in late spring to avoid any chance of a late freeze. On the other hand, your pomegranate seed will germinate and grow very quickly in a location with consistently warm weather.
When the seed begins sprouting stems or leaves, it becomes a seedling. From here, the new seedling will experience vigorous growth in height and width. After some time, the pomegranate seedling will develop into a sapling, which is a young tree. In this stage, the main stem—or the trunk—begins to look and feel more textured and woodsy, and it starts growing new branches.
As your new tree continues growing toward maturity, it becomes stronger and establishes a root system beneath the ground’s surface. Interestingly, pomegranate trees tend to reach maturity much sooner than other fruit trees. If you’re looking for a tree to produce fruit after a few years, pomegranates are an excellent option.
You may be wondering exactly how long it takes to get fruit from your new tree, and the answer is as little as one year but usually closer to two to three years. Although you may see a few fruits during the first growing season, they most likely won’t be of the best quality or size. However, after a few years of growing and getting stronger, your pomegranate tree should be able to bear healthy, abundant globes of sweetness.
Now that you know more about the life of a pomegranate tree, you’ll also know when to expect a decent fruit harvest. Growing fruit trees can be extremely rewarding—don’t write it off before weighing the benefits.
]]>If you want to add trees to your yard, you must first decide which variety will work best for you and suit your needs. Flowering trees are an aesthetically pleasing addition to any property, but there are various reasons to consider planting one in your garden.
Generally, flowering trees bloom in the spring or summer months, but many varieties provide various foliage colors throughout each season. With that said, they can be an incredible addition to your landscape despite the weather.
If you’re looking for an ornamental tree to fill a smaller space in your yard, consider a flowering tree. Avoid planting extremely large trees in small areas because they may obstruct other structures or plants on your property. Flowering trees are relatively short compared to other tree varieties, making them a great option for people without a wide open yard.
Because flowering trees are often native to various regions, they make a great option to support beneficial pollinator populations. Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, love nectar-rich, fragrant plants and trees—fortunately, flowering trees attract these beneficial creatures to your property. Not only do you help their populations, but you also get to watch them in action in your garden.
When it comes to planting and growing any plants or trees, always consider your USDA hardiness zone to ensure they’ll thrive in your location. With that said, flowering trees are no exception—different cultivars are more successful in certain regions of the country. Before purchasing your new tree, check its comfort zone to see if it’ll survive in your area.
Interestingly, not every flowering tree is the same. Some options are much more vibrant and colorful than others, as they are known and loved for their stunning blossoms. On the other hand, other varieties, such as dogwoods and magnolias, work best to attract pollinators.
There are a few things to consider before deciding on the perfect flowering tree for your yard: fall foliage colors, leaf shape, and bark appearance. Furthermore, you must know the best location for growing your desired flowering variety.
It’s no secret that different trees will grow into various sizes, but it’s incredibly important to understand that you must choose your trees based on their mature size expectations. With that said, selecting the appropriate tree shape and size for your property is crucial for maintenance costs, adding value to your property, and complementing your yard.
As you’re shopping around for your new flowering trees, ask yourself a few questions:
Remember, it’s best to match the tree to the site rather than the other way around. You should know the size of your desired planting site before you even shop for a tree.
Beautiful flower colors are easily one of the best perks of growing flowering trees on your property. The stunning colors and fragrances will make your yard whimsical, and different colors harbor unique symbolism and messages. Read on to learn more about the meaning of each color.
Now that you know what most of the flowering tree colors mean, you can choose one that suits your preferences. Although all of the colors are beautiful, planting a specific color can symbolize something much deeper.
In most cases, you should plant flowering crabapple trees and other varieties during the spring or early fall months. Many cultivars prefer partial sunlight and moist but not oversaturated soil; therefore, consider these factors when choosing the best planting site. Dig into the steps below for planting your new flowering tree:
Now that your flowering tree is in the ground, you must know how to care for it properly. Check out a few recommendations to keep your tree happy and healthy for many years.
On average, your flowering tree will need approximately one inch of water each week. However, water needs vary from tree to tree. With that said, you should slightly increase your watering in warmer climates and reduce them during the winter months.
Fertilizer is a great way to promote flower production in your trees; therefore, choose one that contains a small amount of nitrogen and higher amounts of potassium and phosphorous. Using a high nitrogen concentration fertilizer can burn your tree’s roots.
After learning everything you need to know before buying a flowering tree, you’re ready to reap the benefits of a gorgeous, blossoming tree on your property. Whether you plant just one or many, you won’t regret taking the necessary steps to choose, purchase, plant, and maintain your flowering trees. They provide endless beauty and pleasant fragrances to boost your home’s overall landscaping and outdoor living potential.
]]>You may or may not notice small weed-like shoots growing from the bottom of your trees. These are tree suckers, and they might look different from the rest of your trees’ branches. Despite doing everything to care for your trees correctly, tree suckers can result when a stressed tree attempts to sprout new branches. Furthermore, tree suckers may also occur in grafted trees, which is where a gardener fuses one plant’s stem to the rootstalk of another.
If you leave suckers to grow on your plum fruit trees or other trees, they can stunt the tree’s growth and elongate the amount of time it takes for flowers or fruits to grow. Therefore, it’s much better to prevent tree suckers before they start rather than try to deal with them after they sprout. Follow these steps to prevent suckers from damaging your trees:
Although working to prevent them is the best possible solution, tree suckers can pop up unexpectedly. With that said, you should remove them as soon as possible to avoid tree damage. They’re relatively easy to remove—you simply prune the tree suckers like you would any other branch. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the sucker as close to the tree as possible.
Fortunately, managing and removing tree suckers is a relatively easy part of fruit tree care. Keeping your beautiful fruit trees healthy should be a top priority, but tree suckers can wreak havoc on your garden. To keep that from happening, remove them as soon as they appear.
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