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iamownerofme · 4 months ago
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Tillandsia, AKA air plants, are so much fun. They are completely unique to the plant world, requiring no soil to survive. But, they do require a different water routine in order to thrive. Follow these steps to water air plants the right way and keep them hydrated and happy all year long. For even the most experienced gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts, air plants can remain an enigma. What do you mean they don’t require any soil!? By far the biggest question new air plant owners have is how the heck do you water a plant that doesn’t have any soil. While many people will recommend misting your air plant, I have a different method that will give your air plant the hydration it really needs. A bath! This post will cover… Tillandsia variety: Snowball What’s in a Name? Tillandsia gets their more common name, air plant, because they grow without soil in the air. One of the most common misconceptions about Tillandsia comes from their name and the idea that they only need air to survive. However, it really means that they need to absorb moisture through their leaves consistently. This either comes from very high humidity (as in a greenhouse) or from regular soaking. Their spiky tendrils are oh-so-cool looking, and because they don’t need soil to survive, there are endless creative ways to display them, from terrariums to popping them inside seashells. You can even make them into jewelry! They are hardy and easy to care for if you know what to do, and the most common problems that people have with air plants are due to incorrect watering. When Tillandsia grow in the wild, they absorb moisture from the air, which is much more humid than it is indoors, and that is usually where we keep them, so we have to soak them to rehydrate. But it must be done properly or the air plant will rot! How to Water Air Plants Water your air plants in the morning to ensure they get enough time to fully dry, or it may disrupt their ability to respire at night. To water air plants, remove them from wherever you have them displayed and submerge them in a bowl or sink full of enough water to completely cover them. Parts of the plants will float up above the water—this is okay. Just make sure that the majority of each air plant is submerged in the water. Leave them in the bath for one hour. Remove each plant, hold it facing upside down, and shake well to get rid of any excess water pooling at the base of the inner leaves. Then, turn your air plant upside down on a towel and place it in a bright spot. Let it sit for one to three hours, depending on when it is fully dry. Ensure there is no water pooled or else your air plant may rot. Return your air plants to their regular spot until it is time to bathe them again. Soak your air plants for an hour before removing them to completely dry out. Use the Right Water Don’t use chlorinated water for your air plants, as it can harm them. Instead, use rainwater or filtered water if possible. If you want to use tap water, allow it to sit out in a bowl for 24 hours first so that the chlorine evaporates. Chlorine can turn the tips of the leaves brown. Change Your Watering Schedule Seasonally Depending on the season, air plants need to be bathed at different frequencies. In the summer, when it is hot, they like to be bathed once a week, but in the cool winter months, once every three weeks or so will do. Pay attention to the changing of the seasons and the health of your air plant and water accordingly. You will also want to note the location of your air plant. For example, how much light is your plant receiving? If it’s getting lots of sun, it may need to be watered more often. Is your plant located next to a heater where it may dry out more quickly, or do you live somewhere humid where it will require less water? Take the time to evaluate the surroundings of your air plant when thinking about a watering schedule. More heat = more frequent waterings. Should I Mist My Air Plants? Many garden centers or plant stores will tell you to mist your air plant with water from a misting bottle a few times a week. Personally, I do not find this to be very helpful for the plant. Spritzing is just too inconsistent and doesn’t provide the air plant with enough moisture. Misting should not be the only method you use for watering your air plant. That being said, greenhouses and garden centers just mist them because it is already humid inside a greenhouse. And if you live in a humid climate (or a greenhouse) you can also get away with spritzing them. For air plants adopted as houseplants for the rest of us, the key is soaking them in a bath. If your air plant is stuck in a terrarium or glued somewhere and it cannot be removed, misting may be your only option. If this is the case, mist very often to ensure it gets as much water as possible without letting water sit in the base. However, I highly discourage placing air plants anywhere where they cannot be removed and bathed! Don’t rely just on misting to water air plants. Signs of an Unhappy Air Plant If your air plant is showing signs of distress, it could be due to watering. Crispy tips that are turning brown could be a sign of under-watering. You will also notice that the air plant’s concave shape is more noticeable when water is lacking. Signs of over-watering, however, are tricky to undo. If the air plant is rapidly losing leaves and the base has turned black or brown, the air plant has gone rotten. Resist watering and cross your fingers! View my guide on how to revive a sick air plant for more information. Brown tips can indicate your plant isn’t getting enough water. FAQ About Watering Air Plants My leaves become soggy after I water my air plants. What am I doing wrong? While soaking the air plants is the proper way to water, the most important part of the process is actually drying them. You want to water them in the morning, so you have all day to let them dry.Shake off as much water as possible after watering. Then, tip them upside down and place them in a bright and sunny spot until they’re fully dry. I repeat, fully dry. One commenter advised laying it on a screen so the water can drip out underneath. How can I tell if my air plant is dead? If it is dead, all the leaves will fall off, or it will turn brown and crunchy. Can I glue my air plant to display it? Avoid buying glued air plants. The glue is safe for air plants and won’t kill them, but it is certainly not the best option if you want to have long-living, healthy plants. I have purchased some gorgeous displays with air plants glued onto them, but I can never water them properly. It’s best to display them so they can be removed to be watered, such as this wire display or this living air plant wreath. More Posts About Air Plants: Source link
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tameblog · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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ramestoryworld · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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alexha2210 · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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angusstory · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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tumibaba · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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romaleen · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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monaleen101 · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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shelyold · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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iammeandmy · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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iamownerofme · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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januishstory · 2 months ago
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A must-have for your woodland garden, the dogwood tree is a charmer. With so many varieties to choose from, you’re sure to be impressed by all the genus has to offer. From shiny, bright red berries for the birds to white spring blossoms for the bees, there’s plenty to love when it comes to adding a dogwood tree to your garden. The mighty dogwood tree never fails to amaze me! I’ve long been a fan of this prolific grower. My first dogwood tree was a Japanese dogwood in the cultivar ‘Miss Satomi.’ I planted it in the front yard of my first home. A dwarf variety, it provided a delightful burst of pink in the spring. In my next home, I had a Pacific dogwood. They’re very popular here in the Pacific Northwest as they thrive in this climate. They’re native here, after all! The white of the Pacific Dogwood really is a showstopper. When in bloom, the bracts went all the way up to the top of my house. And it’s a tall house. The Pacific dogwood. With over 50 species in the Cornus genius known as dogwoods, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you want a small shrub or an evergreen tree, I’m positive you can find the ideal dogwood for your yard. This post will cover… Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Meet the Dogwood Many dogwoods are known for their early spring flowers. Most people mistake the outer leaves (known as the bract) for the flower when they are actually the little spots in the center. Amongst the most popular dogwoods is the flowering dogwood tree, which you can find cultivars of in various colours. Most varieties produce berries in the summer. Over 30 species of birds are known to nibble on the berries, so they’re a great addition to the bird-friendly yard. Dogwood berries. And once the blossoms, berries, and leaves have come and gone, you’ll be left with some beautiful bark to gaze at during the winter. From bright red to mottled gray, the bark of dogwood trees is known for its year-round eye candy. First known as a dogtree, the name was derived from the word dagwood, as the stems of the plant were used to make daggers and arrows. To this day, you’ll still find many items made of dogwood, as it’s a very tough wood. For centuries, people have been using dogwoods medicinally. The bark is known to be packed full of tannins. Ground bark or leaves have been used to treat pain, fever, wounds, incontinence, dizziness, and weakness. Dogwoods come in many hues, including white, yellow, red, pink, and purple. Types of Dogwood Trees There are SO many noteworthy dogwood trees, but here are some of the most common dogwood varieties you may encounter. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): as the most popular type of dogwood tree, you can find blossoms in white, pink, and red. Blooming from May to June, they grow 20-25 ft high and wide and do well in zones 5-9. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea): the most common dogwood shrub, the red twig dogwood has white flowers in the spring, attractive foliage in the summer, and bright red bark for winter interest. Fairly cold hardy, it grows in zones 2-9 and reaches 6-8 ft high and wide. Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus Mas): one of the first trees to flower in the spring, this dogwood has yellow star-like flowers to brighten up the cold. In the summer, it has bright red berries and curling gray to brown bark in the winter. It grows 15-30 ft high, forming a thick shrub when left alone or a nice tree when trimmed. Japanese Dogwood (Cornus kousa): also known as the kousa dogwood, Korean dogwood, or Chinese dogwood, it can grow as a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The blooms are white/yellowish blossoms in the spring and pinkish-red berries by fall, with mottled bark noticeable in the winter. This variety blooms a month later than the standard dogwood. Japanese dogwood (Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’) Planting a Dogwood Tree If you plan on adding dogwood to your garden, they’re fairly easy to plant. First off, make sure to buy them from a reputable garden centre (rather than transplanting one from the wild) to avoid any fungal diseases. Plant your dogwood tree in late spring. Warm weather kills viruses that thrive in cool, moist weather. You want to plant while the tree is dormant, with no visible growth yet, and when the soil is wet. When planting, dig the hole extra wide to encourage the roots to grow outwards. Loosen the root ball with a soil knife to stop the plant from growing in the shape of the container it came in. Be careful not to plant too deep. Red twig dogwood Caring for a Dogwood Tree Once you have your tree planted, make sure to keep your new dogwood in tip-top shape with the right care. Light Dogwoods prefer sunny areas that have some afternoon shade. They like to be protected from the sun either through dappled shade from a taller tree or partial shade from a nearby building. Soil Dogwoods are fairly adaptable when it comes to soil types, though they prefer it slightly acidic. Well-drained, moist soil is ideal, though some may tolerate boggy conditions. Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ Water The most maintenance a dogwood tree will need resolves around water. Since they have shallow roots, they dry out quickly. They do not like arid or semi-arid climates and are not drought-tolerant. If you want a dogwood but don’t get much rainfall, irrigation or frequent watering is a must. You will want to water regularly until it’s established. Water thoroughly until it reaches approximately 3 feet down. Look to the leaves to help determine watering needs. If crisp, they need more water. If droopy, it’s getting too much water. Fertilizer Dogwoods don’t require much fertilizer. If you have well-balanced soil, you may not need fertilizer at all. Most established shrubs and trees do not require fertilizer, so only apply it before it’s established. A slow-release fertilizer at a ratio of 16-4-9 works best. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can burn the leaves or even kill the plant. Pruning Lucky for you, dogwoods require very little pruning care! Like any plant, you can prune to remove any dead or diseased branches. You may also prune for shape, though most dogwood trees have a naturally good shape and don’t require pruning. If you do prune, do so in late winter when the tree is dormant. Just be sure to prune before new leaves begin emerging in the spring. Pests and Diseases For dogwood trees, the most common disease is anthracnose, a fungus caused by Discula destructiva. This results in spotting of the leaf and twig dieback. You may also see powdery mildew, a whitish-gray powder on the leaves. Both can be prevented with good air circulation and by keeping foliage dry. Water at the base of your plant. In terms of pests, you may notice your deer munching on young dogwoods. You may need to protect them when they’re young up until they’re big enough to be out of reach from hungry deer. Another pest you may encounter is the dogwood borer. They burrow under the bark of the tree. To prevent them, avoid damage to the bark, as that is how larvae enter. Never prune between April to June, as that is when they’re active. The Pacific dogwood in front of my old house. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogwood Trees What does a dogwood tree look like? There are many varieties of dogwood trees, but flowering dogwoods are the most popular variety. Most often coated in white flowers in the spring, you can also find pink or red dogwood trees. In the summer, they get red berries known as drupes. In the fall, the leaves turn purple-red, and the colourful stems and bark remain for the winter.Most dogwoods can be identified by their leaves with smooth edges and veins that curve parallel to the edges. They also have opposite branching, where the side branches grow directly opposite of each other rather than alternating. How big does a dogwood tree get? From shrubs to trees, plants under the Cornus genus can vary significantly in size. Most dogwood trees can grow up to 25 ft, with some being known to get as high as 40 ft. Dogwood shrubs typically grow 3-5 ft tall. How fast do dogwood trees grow? Dogwood trees grow at a medium rate. Every year, you can expect them to grow 13-24 inches long, reaching full size in as little as a decade. Why do dogwood trees smell? Many people know dogwoods for their strong fragrance. Some enjoy it, while others hate it. But for most, it’s not unpleasant. The smell is notable when they’re flowering, as the smell is used to attract insects and animals for pollination.   When it comes to the dogwood, you’ll certainly be barking up the right tree! Leave any of your dogwood questions below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m able. More Tips for Growing Trees A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants. Source link
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tameblog · 3 months ago
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Beautiful and delicate, clematis is an immensely popular flowering plant for many gardeners. Their vines can climb just about anything, jazzing up a boring fence or trellis. If you have purchased a new plant, this guide covers everything you need to know to give your clematis the best start and make it through that crucial first winter. Vancouver Danielle Clematis Clematis flowers are one of my favourite ways to add some whimsy and cottage-like charm to a garden. When left to their own devices, they climb trellises, other shrubs, and wooden fences to create a very wild yet beautiful look. Clematis are incredibly versatile in appearance, thanks to there being over 300 varieties. Their flowers are most often purple but can come in many different hues, including white, pink, red, and blue. Once established, they require very little care and can be left to climb and grow as they please. I love leaving the clematis flowers even once they’re done blooming, for their seed heads turn into pretty little puffs that decorate the garden well into the fall. Let’s get into everything you need to know to plant and care for your clematis! Many large-flowered hybrid clematis will often bloom in two waves. Meet the Clematis Flower Without a doubt, clematis is most known as a great climber. Their name comes from the Greek word klema, which means “a climbing plant.” You can pronounce clematis like kleh-muh-tuhs or kleh-mah-tuhs, both are fine! Clematis symbolize ingenuity and mental beauty. This is likely related to their clever climbing abilities and how well they can attach themselves to trees and walls. In 1569, plant collectors brought the first clematis to England from Spain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that today’s most popular large-flowered version came from China. Already popular in Japanese gardens, they also became immensely popular with the Victorians. Unfortunately, wilt disease eliminated most of the commercial supply, and it wasn’t until after WWII that large-scale propagation could begin again. And as we know now, they’ve continued their popularity ever since! There are over 300 varieties of clematis plants, with even more hybrids. They are often separated into two groups: large-flowered and small-flowered. Clematis plants are known as incredible climbers. When Do Clematis Bloom? Different varieties of clematis flowers will bloom at different times, but you can find them anywhere between late winter to late fall. Most varieties produce single flowers and are lightly scented. Many clematis flowers will change colour throughout the season, especially in full sun. Once the flowers have finished, pretty seed heads will stay on the plant well into winter. Sapphire Indigo Clematis How to Grow Clematis Before you buy any clematis plants, tip the plant out of its pot and check for ‘stowaways’ and an abundance of healthy white roots. If the former is present and the latter is not, choose another plant. From the outset, you do not want to import any problems or poor plants into your garden. Clematis are sold in taller pots for a reason. They need to be planted with the top crown of the plant around 2-3 inches (50-75mm) below ground level. This dramatically reduces the risk of wilt. When to Plant You can plant a clematis vine as soon as the ground is workable. Much like bulbs, they do a lot of root growth in the summer and fall in order to store energy for top and flower growth during the spring. When planting, dig your hole and then cover the bottom with rich compost. Add topsoil to cover the compost, and then add your well-watered clematis. The stem of the new plant will need to be carefully and securely attached to a support of some kind. This plant likes to have cool roots, so you can lay stones or shallow annuals at the base. You can add a light winter mulch in addition to the above but remember to reduce it once the ground hits +3C to encourage early growth. This is where a ground thermometer can be very useful in spring to monitor your plants. Consider planting two different varieties together, one early-flowering and the other late-flowering, with a mid-season flowering shrub, for best results. Clematis florida ���Sieboldii’ Where to Plant Clematis Let the climbers climb and socialize! Think of clematis as social plants that like to ‘mix it.’ They enjoy cool roots and warm, sunny foliage with friends. They are much more likely to succeed when not isolated and exposed to a lattice. Instead, let them mingle with a rambler rose, honeysuckle, or a wisteria. In more extreme locations, plant an all-season shrub like Osmanthus to screen their base at a distance. Together, they will protect each other from damaging cold or drying winds according to the season. If you wish to grow a vine near a masonry wall, be sure to plant it around 2 ft (600 mm) from the wall to avoid planting your latest specimen over the foundation slab, which will greatly reduce any root expansion. If your proposed clematis is one of the shorter types, say 6-8 ft, try to relocate it, as the 12 ft+ varieties, like the Montanas, do best against a masonry wall. Clematis can be planted close to a wooden fence without a problem since their roots can easily negotiate the posts. However, try to avoid planting clematis roots immediately beneath a treated fence, as the water run-off can be a source of contamination. Without a doubt, the best place to locate a clematis is to allow it to run through another shrub or ornamental tree. In the photo below, Clematis Perle d’Azur can be seen growing through its protective Pittosporum support. Clematis Perle d’Azur Clematis Container Planting If you want, you can even grow clematis plants in containers with a little bit of special care. First, choose a container that is a minimum of 18” wide, high, and deep. You will want to avoid any type of container that conducts heat (metal, black in colour) as they like to keep their roots cool. Plant using potting soil. This will help the plant to retain moisture but will also ensure it is getting enough drainage. And like any vine, it will need support. Place your container against a wall or trellis, or use bamboo stakes to let it stand on its own. Here’s how you can build a beautiful woven bamboo trellis – the perfect spot for your new plant! Julka Clematis How to Care for Clematis Now that you’ve planted your clematis, you’re going to need to take care of it! Here are the important things you should know in order to have a happy and healthy plant. Light Let the light shine on your clematis. They require at least half a day of full sun or strong filtered light in order to bloom. Try to ensure the area above the roots is shaded during the hottest part of the day, as they do like to keep cool roots. However, avoid using a dark slab over the roots as this can heat up quickly and reduce air and rain to the plant. Warmer climates that have long growing seasons with hot temperatures can plant a clematis in partial shade. Colder climates with shorter growing seasons, however, should adhere to the above. Arabella Clematis Water Since clematis plants have such deep roots, you will want to water them thoroughly in order to reach them. They require regular watering, especially when conditions have been especially dry. Fertilization In the spring, you will want to give them an initial dose of low nitrogen fertilizer when the buds are approximately 2” long. Afterward, alternate feedings with a balanced fertilizer until the end of the growing season. How to Prune Clematis There are a few things to note when pruning your clematis plant. In the spring, you will want to prune stems until the lowest pair of healthy buds. Then, you can prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Clematis flower stems that are four years or older will have fewer and fewer blooms. You can periodically prune old stems in the spring to help encourage compact flowers. Feel free to remove dead or damaged stems whenever necessary. Do not consider the weight of a growing clematis on other plants. Overall, they are not heavy vines and can grow through a host with very little damage. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Common Clematis Pests and Diseases When it comes to clematis care, the most common thing you will see is something called clematis wilt. While lots of blooms on delicate-looking stems make for a beautifully dainty plant, it is also its downfall. If the plant is not securely attached, stems may break, and fungi can grow in the wounds. This causes clematis wilt. This problem most often occurs when the plant is young, and the flower buds are just beginning to open. If clematis wilt occurs, the best thing you can do is immediately remove the affected areas. Next, trim one inch further from the affected areas as the fungus can remain in healthy-looking areas of the plant. As far as pests go, slugs and earworms are the main concern. Slugs prefer young shoots and will attach in the spring. Earwigs come midsummer and can damage late-flowering clematis overnight. Mix up a natural pest control spray using mixed herbs and vegetables to keep them deterred. Jackman Superba Clematis Winter Treatment for Clematis Vines There is one important step to take to ensure your new clematis plant gets through the winter. Usually, people buy clematis in the spring or early summer and then leave it alone in the autumn. Then, they expect the plant to grow and be bigger and better the following year. However, that’s a big mistake. A young rootstock can exhaust itself by trying to keep the whole plant alive during a long winter. Instead, here is what you will want to do to give your new plant the best chance of success. During the autumn, after flowering, chop your plant down to between 12 and 18″ (30 – 45cm). Then, ensure the remaining stem is supported off the ground. That’s it! The young rootstock will save its energy for the winter ahead. Repeat this again for the second winter after purchase. By the third year, the rootstock should be mature enough not to require a third successive autumnal chop. Clematis plants do need a dormant period in order to grow their best. To reach dormancy, a nightly temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius for a week is necessary. Afterward, the plant should be in dormancy for approximately six weeks. Blue Light Clematis How to Propagate Clematis Propagating clematis is a little different than your average plant. Stem cuttings are the easiest way to propagate the delicate vine, but remember that not all will root successfully. You want to take all cuttings from an established vine that is two or more years old. You can take these cuttings anywhere from late spring until the end of summer. Follow these steps to propagate your clematis vine: Find a vine to cut. You want one that doesn’t have any flowers or buds and is fairly long. This way, you can divide the stem into at least three cuttings. Aim to take a softwood cutting a few weeks into the growing season when it is not too new or too tough. Make your cutting above a leaf joint, the area where the two leaves are growing from. Place your cutting in a damp paper towel to avoid shock. Using a very sharp knife and a cutting board, you will make your first cutting. Cut an inch above the leaf joint, 2 inches below the leaf joint, and then cut off one leaf so you’re left with only one. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in your potting soil. Carefully insert the stem into the hole and fill it up with soil. Ensure your cutting has enough support Repeat the steps until you have a few cuttings. Water your cuttings thoroughly. Cover your seedlings with a clear plastic bag to keep the plants humid. Don’t let your cuttings dry out. Place your cuttings in a warm area out of the direct sun. With a little love and attention at the beginning, you’ll enjoy this lovely climbing vine for years to come. Boulevard Patio Rebecca Clematis More Flowers to Grow Source link
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ramestoryworld · 3 months ago
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Beautiful and delicate, clematis is an immensely popular flowering plant for many gardeners. Their vines can climb just about anything, jazzing up a boring fence or trellis. If you have purchased a new plant, this guide covers everything you need to know to give your clematis the best start and make it through that crucial first winter. Vancouver Danielle Clematis Clematis flowers are one of my favourite ways to add some whimsy and cottage-like charm to a garden. When left to their own devices, they climb trellises, other shrubs, and wooden fences to create a very wild yet beautiful look. Clematis are incredibly versatile in appearance, thanks to there being over 300 varieties. Their flowers are most often purple but can come in many different hues, including white, pink, red, and blue. Once established, they require very little care and can be left to climb and grow as they please. I love leaving the clematis flowers even once they’re done blooming, for their seed heads turn into pretty little puffs that decorate the garden well into the fall. Let’s get into everything you need to know to plant and care for your clematis! Many large-flowered hybrid clematis will often bloom in two waves. Meet the Clematis Flower Without a doubt, clematis is most known as a great climber. Their name comes from the Greek word klema, which means “a climbing plant.” You can pronounce clematis like kleh-muh-tuhs or kleh-mah-tuhs, both are fine! Clematis symbolize ingenuity and mental beauty. This is likely related to their clever climbing abilities and how well they can attach themselves to trees and walls. In 1569, plant collectors brought the first clematis to England from Spain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that today’s most popular large-flowered version came from China. Already popular in Japanese gardens, they also became immensely popular with the Victorians. Unfortunately, wilt disease eliminated most of the commercial supply, and it wasn’t until after WWII that large-scale propagation could begin again. And as we know now, they’ve continued their popularity ever since! There are over 300 varieties of clematis plants, with even more hybrids. They are often separated into two groups: large-flowered and small-flowered. Clematis plants are known as incredible climbers. When Do Clematis Bloom? Different varieties of clematis flowers will bloom at different times, but you can find them anywhere between late winter to late fall. Most varieties produce single flowers and are lightly scented. Many clematis flowers will change colour throughout the season, especially in full sun. Once the flowers have finished, pretty seed heads will stay on the plant well into winter. Sapphire Indigo Clematis How to Grow Clematis Before you buy any clematis plants, tip the plant out of its pot and check for ‘stowaways’ and an abundance of healthy white roots. If the former is present and the latter is not, choose another plant. From the outset, you do not want to import any problems or poor plants into your garden. Clematis are sold in taller pots for a reason. They need to be planted with the top crown of the plant around 2-3 inches (50-75mm) below ground level. This dramatically reduces the risk of wilt. When to Plant You can plant a clematis vine as soon as the ground is workable. Much like bulbs, they do a lot of root growth in the summer and fall in order to store energy for top and flower growth during the spring. When planting, dig your hole and then cover the bottom with rich compost. Add topsoil to cover the compost, and then add your well-watered clematis. The stem of the new plant will need to be carefully and securely attached to a support of some kind. This plant likes to have cool roots, so you can lay stones or shallow annuals at the base. You can add a light winter mulch in addition to the above but remember to reduce it once the ground hits +3C to encourage early growth. This is where a ground thermometer can be very useful in spring to monitor your plants. Consider planting two different varieties together, one early-flowering and the other late-flowering, with a mid-season flowering shrub, for best results. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Where to Plant Clematis Let the climbers climb and socialize! Think of clematis as social plants that like to ‘mix it.’ They enjoy cool roots and warm, sunny foliage with friends. They are much more likely to succeed when not isolated and exposed to a lattice. Instead, let them mingle with a rambler rose, honeysuckle, or a wisteria. In more extreme locations, plant an all-season shrub like Osmanthus to screen their base at a distance. Together, they will protect each other from damaging cold or drying winds according to the season. If you wish to grow a vine near a masonry wall, be sure to plant it around 2 ft (600 mm) from the wall to avoid planting your latest specimen over the foundation slab, which will greatly reduce any root expansion. If your proposed clematis is one of the shorter types, say 6-8 ft, try to relocate it, as the 12 ft+ varieties, like the Montanas, do best against a masonry wall. Clematis can be planted close to a wooden fence without a problem since their roots can easily negotiate the posts. However, try to avoid planting clematis roots immediately beneath a treated fence, as the water run-off can be a source of contamination. Without a doubt, the best place to locate a clematis is to allow it to run through another shrub or ornamental tree. In the photo below, Clematis Perle d’Azur can be seen growing through its protective Pittosporum support. Clematis Perle d’Azur Clematis Container Planting If you want, you can even grow clematis plants in containers with a little bit of special care. First, choose a container that is a minimum of 18” wide, high, and deep. You will want to avoid any type of container that conducts heat (metal, black in colour) as they like to keep their roots cool. Plant using potting soil. This will help the plant to retain moisture but will also ensure it is getting enough drainage. And like any vine, it will need support. Place your container against a wall or trellis, or use bamboo stakes to let it stand on its own. Here’s how you can build a beautiful woven bamboo trellis – the perfect spot for your new plant! Julka Clematis How to Care for Clematis Now that you’ve planted your clematis, you’re going to need to take care of it! Here are the important things you should know in order to have a happy and healthy plant. Light Let the light shine on your clematis. They require at least half a day of full sun or strong filtered light in order to bloom. Try to ensure the area above the roots is shaded during the hottest part of the day, as they do like to keep cool roots. However, avoid using a dark slab over the roots as this can heat up quickly and reduce air and rain to the plant. Warmer climates that have long growing seasons with hot temperatures can plant a clematis in partial shade. Colder climates with shorter growing seasons, however, should adhere to the above. Arabella Clematis Water Since clematis plants have such deep roots, you will want to water them thoroughly in order to reach them. They require regular watering, especially when conditions have been especially dry. Fertilization In the spring, you will want to give them an initial dose of low nitrogen fertilizer when the buds are approximately 2” long. Afterward, alternate feedings with a balanced fertilizer until the end of the growing season. How to Prune Clematis There are a few things to note when pruning your clematis plant. In the spring, you will want to prune stems until the lowest pair of healthy buds. Then, you can prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Clematis flower stems that are four years or older will have fewer and fewer blooms. You can periodically prune old stems in the spring to help encourage compact flowers. Feel free to remove dead or damaged stems whenever necessary. Do not consider the weight of a growing clematis on other plants. Overall, they are not heavy vines and can grow through a host with very little damage. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Common Clematis Pests and Diseases When it comes to clematis care, the most common thing you will see is something called clematis wilt. While lots of blooms on delicate-looking stems make for a beautifully dainty plant, it is also its downfall. If the plant is not securely attached, stems may break, and fungi can grow in the wounds. This causes clematis wilt. This problem most often occurs when the plant is young, and the flower buds are just beginning to open. If clematis wilt occurs, the best thing you can do is immediately remove the affected areas. Next, trim one inch further from the affected areas as the fungus can remain in healthy-looking areas of the plant. As far as pests go, slugs and earworms are the main concern. Slugs prefer young shoots and will attach in the spring. Earwigs come midsummer and can damage late-flowering clematis overnight. Mix up a natural pest control spray using mixed herbs and vegetables to keep them deterred. Jackman Superba Clematis Winter Treatment for Clematis Vines There is one important step to take to ensure your new clematis plant gets through the winter. Usually, people buy clematis in the spring or early summer and then leave it alone in the autumn. Then, they expect the plant to grow and be bigger and better the following year. However, that’s a big mistake. A young rootstock can exhaust itself by trying to keep the whole plant alive during a long winter. Instead, here is what you will want to do to give your new plant the best chance of success. During the autumn, after flowering, chop your plant down to between 12 and 18″ (30 – 45cm). Then, ensure the remaining stem is supported off the ground. That’s it! The young rootstock will save its energy for the winter ahead. Repeat this again for the second winter after purchase. By the third year, the rootstock should be mature enough not to require a third successive autumnal chop. Clematis plants do need a dormant period in order to grow their best. To reach dormancy, a nightly temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius for a week is necessary. Afterward, the plant should be in dormancy for approximately six weeks. Blue Light Clematis How to Propagate Clematis Propagating clematis is a little different than your average plant. Stem cuttings are the easiest way to propagate the delicate vine, but remember that not all will root successfully. You want to take all cuttings from an established vine that is two or more years old. You can take these cuttings anywhere from late spring until the end of summer. Follow these steps to propagate your clematis vine: Find a vine to cut. You want one that doesn’t have any flowers or buds and is fairly long. This way, you can divide the stem into at least three cuttings. Aim to take a softwood cutting a few weeks into the growing season when it is not too new or too tough. Make your cutting above a leaf joint, the area where the two leaves are growing from. Place your cutting in a damp paper towel to avoid shock. Using a very sharp knife and a cutting board, you will make your first cutting. Cut an inch above the leaf joint, 2 inches below the leaf joint, and then cut off one leaf so you’re left with only one. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in your potting soil. Carefully insert the stem into the hole and fill it up with soil. Ensure your cutting has enough support Repeat the steps until you have a few cuttings. Water your cuttings thoroughly. Cover your seedlings with a clear plastic bag to keep the plants humid. Don’t let your cuttings dry out. Place your cuttings in a warm area out of the direct sun. With a little love and attention at the beginning, you’ll enjoy this lovely climbing vine for years to come. Boulevard Patio Rebecca Clematis More Flowers to Grow Source link
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alexha2210 · 3 months ago
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Beautiful and delicate, clematis is an immensely popular flowering plant for many gardeners. Their vines can climb just about anything, jazzing up a boring fence or trellis. If you have purchased a new plant, this guide covers everything you need to know to give your clematis the best start and make it through that crucial first winter. Vancouver Danielle Clematis Clematis flowers are one of my favourite ways to add some whimsy and cottage-like charm to a garden. When left to their own devices, they climb trellises, other shrubs, and wooden fences to create a very wild yet beautiful look. Clematis are incredibly versatile in appearance, thanks to there being over 300 varieties. Their flowers are most often purple but can come in many different hues, including white, pink, red, and blue. Once established, they require very little care and can be left to climb and grow as they please. I love leaving the clematis flowers even once they’re done blooming, for their seed heads turn into pretty little puffs that decorate the garden well into the fall. Let’s get into everything you need to know to plant and care for your clematis! Many large-flowered hybrid clematis will often bloom in two waves. Meet the Clematis Flower Without a doubt, clematis is most known as a great climber. Their name comes from the Greek word klema, which means “a climbing plant.” You can pronounce clematis like kleh-muh-tuhs or kleh-mah-tuhs, both are fine! Clematis symbolize ingenuity and mental beauty. This is likely related to their clever climbing abilities and how well they can attach themselves to trees and walls. In 1569, plant collectors brought the first clematis to England from Spain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that today’s most popular large-flowered version came from China. Already popular in Japanese gardens, they also became immensely popular with the Victorians. Unfortunately, wilt disease eliminated most of the commercial supply, and it wasn’t until after WWII that large-scale propagation could begin again. And as we know now, they’ve continued their popularity ever since! There are over 300 varieties of clematis plants, with even more hybrids. They are often separated into two groups: large-flowered and small-flowered. Clematis plants are known as incredible climbers. When Do Clematis Bloom? Different varieties of clematis flowers will bloom at different times, but you can find them anywhere between late winter to late fall. Most varieties produce single flowers and are lightly scented. Many clematis flowers will change colour throughout the season, especially in full sun. Once the flowers have finished, pretty seed heads will stay on the plant well into winter. Sapphire Indigo Clematis How to Grow Clematis Before you buy any clematis plants, tip the plant out of its pot and check for ‘stowaways’ and an abundance of healthy white roots. If the former is present and the latter is not, choose another plant. From the outset, you do not want to import any problems or poor plants into your garden. Clematis are sold in taller pots for a reason. They need to be planted with the top crown of the plant around 2-3 inches (50-75mm) below ground level. This dramatically reduces the risk of wilt. When to Plant You can plant a clematis vine as soon as the ground is workable. Much like bulbs, they do a lot of root growth in the summer and fall in order to store energy for top and flower growth during the spring. When planting, dig your hole and then cover the bottom with rich compost. Add topsoil to cover the compost, and then add your well-watered clematis. The stem of the new plant will need to be carefully and securely attached to a support of some kind. This plant likes to have cool roots, so you can lay stones or shallow annuals at the base. You can add a light winter mulch in addition to the above but remember to reduce it once the ground hits +3C to encourage early growth. This is where a ground thermometer can be very useful in spring to monitor your plants. Consider planting two different varieties together, one early-flowering and the other late-flowering, with a mid-season flowering shrub, for best results. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Where to Plant Clematis Let the climbers climb and socialize! Think of clematis as social plants that like to ‘mix it.’ They enjoy cool roots and warm, sunny foliage with friends. They are much more likely to succeed when not isolated and exposed to a lattice. Instead, let them mingle with a rambler rose, honeysuckle, or a wisteria. In more extreme locations, plant an all-season shrub like Osmanthus to screen their base at a distance. Together, they will protect each other from damaging cold or drying winds according to the season. If you wish to grow a vine near a masonry wall, be sure to plant it around 2 ft (600 mm) from the wall to avoid planting your latest specimen over the foundation slab, which will greatly reduce any root expansion. If your proposed clematis is one of the shorter types, say 6-8 ft, try to relocate it, as the 12 ft+ varieties, like the Montanas, do best against a masonry wall. Clematis can be planted close to a wooden fence without a problem since their roots can easily negotiate the posts. However, try to avoid planting clematis roots immediately beneath a treated fence, as the water run-off can be a source of contamination. Without a doubt, the best place to locate a clematis is to allow it to run through another shrub or ornamental tree. In the photo below, Clematis Perle d’Azur can be seen growing through its protective Pittosporum support. Clematis Perle d’Azur Clematis Container Planting If you want, you can even grow clematis plants in containers with a little bit of special care. First, choose a container that is a minimum of 18” wide, high, and deep. You will want to avoid any type of container that conducts heat (metal, black in colour) as they like to keep their roots cool. Plant using potting soil. This will help the plant to retain moisture but will also ensure it is getting enough drainage. And like any vine, it will need support. Place your container against a wall or trellis, or use bamboo stakes to let it stand on its own. Here’s how you can build a beautiful woven bamboo trellis – the perfect spot for your new plant! Julka Clematis How to Care for Clematis Now that you’ve planted your clematis, you’re going to need to take care of it! Here are the important things you should know in order to have a happy and healthy plant. Light Let the light shine on your clematis. They require at least half a day of full sun or strong filtered light in order to bloom. Try to ensure the area above the roots is shaded during the hottest part of the day, as they do like to keep cool roots. However, avoid using a dark slab over the roots as this can heat up quickly and reduce air and rain to the plant. Warmer climates that have long growing seasons with hot temperatures can plant a clematis in partial shade. Colder climates with shorter growing seasons, however, should adhere to the above. Arabella Clematis Water Since clematis plants have such deep roots, you will want to water them thoroughly in order to reach them. They require regular watering, especially when conditions have been especially dry. Fertilization In the spring, you will want to give them an initial dose of low nitrogen fertilizer when the buds are approximately 2” long. Afterward, alternate feedings with a balanced fertilizer until the end of the growing season. How to Prune Clematis There are a few things to note when pruning your clematis plant. In the spring, you will want to prune stems until the lowest pair of healthy buds. Then, you can prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Clematis flower stems that are four years or older will have fewer and fewer blooms. You can periodically prune old stems in the spring to help encourage compact flowers. Feel free to remove dead or damaged stems whenever necessary. Do not consider the weight of a growing clematis on other plants. Overall, they are not heavy vines and can grow through a host with very little damage. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Common Clematis Pests and Diseases When it comes to clematis care, the most common thing you will see is something called clematis wilt. While lots of blooms on delicate-looking stems make for a beautifully dainty plant, it is also its downfall. If the plant is not securely attached, stems may break, and fungi can grow in the wounds. This causes clematis wilt. This problem most often occurs when the plant is young, and the flower buds are just beginning to open. If clematis wilt occurs, the best thing you can do is immediately remove the affected areas. Next, trim one inch further from the affected areas as the fungus can remain in healthy-looking areas of the plant. As far as pests go, slugs and earworms are the main concern. Slugs prefer young shoots and will attach in the spring. Earwigs come midsummer and can damage late-flowering clematis overnight. Mix up a natural pest control spray using mixed herbs and vegetables to keep them deterred. Jackman Superba Clematis Winter Treatment for Clematis Vines There is one important step to take to ensure your new clematis plant gets through the winter. Usually, people buy clematis in the spring or early summer and then leave it alone in the autumn. Then, they expect the plant to grow and be bigger and better the following year. However, that’s a big mistake. A young rootstock can exhaust itself by trying to keep the whole plant alive during a long winter. Instead, here is what you will want to do to give your new plant the best chance of success. During the autumn, after flowering, chop your plant down to between 12 and 18″ (30 – 45cm). Then, ensure the remaining stem is supported off the ground. That’s it! The young rootstock will save its energy for the winter ahead. Repeat this again for the second winter after purchase. By the third year, the rootstock should be mature enough not to require a third successive autumnal chop. Clematis plants do need a dormant period in order to grow their best. To reach dormancy, a nightly temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius for a week is necessary. Afterward, the plant should be in dormancy for approximately six weeks. Blue Light Clematis How to Propagate Clematis Propagating clematis is a little different than your average plant. Stem cuttings are the easiest way to propagate the delicate vine, but remember that not all will root successfully. You want to take all cuttings from an established vine that is two or more years old. You can take these cuttings anywhere from late spring until the end of summer. Follow these steps to propagate your clematis vine: Find a vine to cut. You want one that doesn’t have any flowers or buds and is fairly long. This way, you can divide the stem into at least three cuttings. Aim to take a softwood cutting a few weeks into the growing season when it is not too new or too tough. Make your cutting above a leaf joint, the area where the two leaves are growing from. Place your cutting in a damp paper towel to avoid shock. Using a very sharp knife and a cutting board, you will make your first cutting. Cut an inch above the leaf joint, 2 inches below the leaf joint, and then cut off one leaf so you’re left with only one. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in your potting soil. Carefully insert the stem into the hole and fill it up with soil. Ensure your cutting has enough support Repeat the steps until you have a few cuttings. Water your cuttings thoroughly. Cover your seedlings with a clear plastic bag to keep the plants humid. Don’t let your cuttings dry out. Place your cuttings in a warm area out of the direct sun. With a little love and attention at the beginning, you’ll enjoy this lovely climbing vine for years to come. Boulevard Patio Rebecca Clematis More Flowers to Grow Source link
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angusstory · 3 months ago
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Beautiful and delicate, clematis is an immensely popular flowering plant for many gardeners. Their vines can climb just about anything, jazzing up a boring fence or trellis. If you have purchased a new plant, this guide covers everything you need to know to give your clematis the best start and make it through that crucial first winter. Vancouver Danielle Clematis Clematis flowers are one of my favourite ways to add some whimsy and cottage-like charm to a garden. When left to their own devices, they climb trellises, other shrubs, and wooden fences to create a very wild yet beautiful look. Clematis are incredibly versatile in appearance, thanks to there being over 300 varieties. Their flowers are most often purple but can come in many different hues, including white, pink, red, and blue. Once established, they require very little care and can be left to climb and grow as they please. I love leaving the clematis flowers even once they’re done blooming, for their seed heads turn into pretty little puffs that decorate the garden well into the fall. Let’s get into everything you need to know to plant and care for your clematis! Many large-flowered hybrid clematis will often bloom in two waves. Meet the Clematis Flower Without a doubt, clematis is most known as a great climber. Their name comes from the Greek word klema, which means “a climbing plant.” You can pronounce clematis like kleh-muh-tuhs or kleh-mah-tuhs, both are fine! Clematis symbolize ingenuity and mental beauty. This is likely related to their clever climbing abilities and how well they can attach themselves to trees and walls. In 1569, plant collectors brought the first clematis to England from Spain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that today’s most popular large-flowered version came from China. Already popular in Japanese gardens, they also became immensely popular with the Victorians. Unfortunately, wilt disease eliminated most of the commercial supply, and it wasn’t until after WWII that large-scale propagation could begin again. And as we know now, they’ve continued their popularity ever since! There are over 300 varieties of clematis plants, with even more hybrids. They are often separated into two groups: large-flowered and small-flowered. Clematis plants are known as incredible climbers. When Do Clematis Bloom? Different varieties of clematis flowers will bloom at different times, but you can find them anywhere between late winter to late fall. Most varieties produce single flowers and are lightly scented. Many clematis flowers will change colour throughout the season, especially in full sun. Once the flowers have finished, pretty seed heads will stay on the plant well into winter. Sapphire Indigo Clematis How to Grow Clematis Before you buy any clematis plants, tip the plant out of its pot and check for ‘stowaways’ and an abundance of healthy white roots. If the former is present and the latter is not, choose another plant. From the outset, you do not want to import any problems or poor plants into your garden. Clematis are sold in taller pots for a reason. They need to be planted with the top crown of the plant around 2-3 inches (50-75mm) below ground level. This dramatically reduces the risk of wilt. When to Plant You can plant a clematis vine as soon as the ground is workable. Much like bulbs, they do a lot of root growth in the summer and fall in order to store energy for top and flower growth during the spring. When planting, dig your hole and then cover the bottom with rich compost. Add topsoil to cover the compost, and then add your well-watered clematis. The stem of the new plant will need to be carefully and securely attached to a support of some kind. This plant likes to have cool roots, so you can lay stones or shallow annuals at the base. You can add a light winter mulch in addition to the above but remember to reduce it once the ground hits +3C to encourage early growth. This is where a ground thermometer can be very useful in spring to monitor your plants. Consider planting two different varieties together, one early-flowering and the other late-flowering, with a mid-season flowering shrub, for best results. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Where to Plant Clematis Let the climbers climb and socialize! Think of clematis as social plants that like to ‘mix it.’ They enjoy cool roots and warm, sunny foliage with friends. They are much more likely to succeed when not isolated and exposed to a lattice. Instead, let them mingle with a rambler rose, honeysuckle, or a wisteria. In more extreme locations, plant an all-season shrub like Osmanthus to screen their base at a distance. Together, they will protect each other from damaging cold or drying winds according to the season. If you wish to grow a vine near a masonry wall, be sure to plant it around 2 ft (600 mm) from the wall to avoid planting your latest specimen over the foundation slab, which will greatly reduce any root expansion. If your proposed clematis is one of the shorter types, say 6-8 ft, try to relocate it, as the 12 ft+ varieties, like the Montanas, do best against a masonry wall. Clematis can be planted close to a wooden fence without a problem since their roots can easily negotiate the posts. However, try to avoid planting clematis roots immediately beneath a treated fence, as the water run-off can be a source of contamination. Without a doubt, the best place to locate a clematis is to allow it to run through another shrub or ornamental tree. In the photo below, Clematis Perle d’Azur can be seen growing through its protective Pittosporum support. Clematis Perle d’Azur Clematis Container Planting If you want, you can even grow clematis plants in containers with a little bit of special care. First, choose a container that is a minimum of 18” wide, high, and deep. You will want to avoid any type of container that conducts heat (metal, black in colour) as they like to keep their roots cool. Plant using potting soil. This will help the plant to retain moisture but will also ensure it is getting enough drainage. And like any vine, it will need support. Place your container against a wall or trellis, or use bamboo stakes to let it stand on its own. Here’s how you can build a beautiful woven bamboo trellis – the perfect spot for your new plant! Julka Clematis How to Care for Clematis Now that you’ve planted your clematis, you’re going to need to take care of it! Here are the important things you should know in order to have a happy and healthy plant. Light Let the light shine on your clematis. They require at least half a day of full sun or strong filtered light in order to bloom. Try to ensure the area above the roots is shaded during the hottest part of the day, as they do like to keep cool roots. However, avoid using a dark slab over the roots as this can heat up quickly and reduce air and rain to the plant. Warmer climates that have long growing seasons with hot temperatures can plant a clematis in partial shade. Colder climates with shorter growing seasons, however, should adhere to the above. Arabella Clematis Water Since clematis plants have such deep roots, you will want to water them thoroughly in order to reach them. They require regular watering, especially when conditions have been especially dry. Fertilization In the spring, you will want to give them an initial dose of low nitrogen fertilizer when the buds are approximately 2” long. Afterward, alternate feedings with a balanced fertilizer until the end of the growing season. How to Prune Clematis There are a few things to note when pruning your clematis plant. In the spring, you will want to prune stems until the lowest pair of healthy buds. Then, you can prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Clematis flower stems that are four years or older will have fewer and fewer blooms. You can periodically prune old stems in the spring to help encourage compact flowers. Feel free to remove dead or damaged stems whenever necessary. Do not consider the weight of a growing clematis on other plants. Overall, they are not heavy vines and can grow through a host with very little damage. Clematis florida ‘Sieboldii’ Common Clematis Pests and Diseases When it comes to clematis care, the most common thing you will see is something called clematis wilt. While lots of blooms on delicate-looking stems make for a beautifully dainty plant, it is also its downfall. If the plant is not securely attached, stems may break, and fungi can grow in the wounds. This causes clematis wilt. This problem most often occurs when the plant is young, and the flower buds are just beginning to open. If clematis wilt occurs, the best thing you can do is immediately remove the affected areas. Next, trim one inch further from the affected areas as the fungus can remain in healthy-looking areas of the plant. As far as pests go, slugs and earworms are the main concern. Slugs prefer young shoots and will attach in the spring. Earwigs come midsummer and can damage late-flowering clematis overnight. Mix up a natural pest control spray using mixed herbs and vegetables to keep them deterred. Jackman Superba Clematis Winter Treatment for Clematis Vines There is one important step to take to ensure your new clematis plant gets through the winter. Usually, people buy clematis in the spring or early summer and then leave it alone in the autumn. Then, they expect the plant to grow and be bigger and better the following year. However, that’s a big mistake. A young rootstock can exhaust itself by trying to keep the whole plant alive during a long winter. Instead, here is what you will want to do to give your new plant the best chance of success. During the autumn, after flowering, chop your plant down to between 12 and 18″ (30 – 45cm). Then, ensure the remaining stem is supported off the ground. That’s it! The young rootstock will save its energy for the winter ahead. Repeat this again for the second winter after purchase. By the third year, the rootstock should be mature enough not to require a third successive autumnal chop. Clematis plants do need a dormant period in order to grow their best. To reach dormancy, a nightly temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius for a week is necessary. Afterward, the plant should be in dormancy for approximately six weeks. Blue Light Clematis How to Propagate Clematis Propagating clematis is a little different than your average plant. Stem cuttings are the easiest way to propagate the delicate vine, but remember that not all will root successfully. You want to take all cuttings from an established vine that is two or more years old. You can take these cuttings anywhere from late spring until the end of summer. Follow these steps to propagate your clematis vine: Find a vine to cut. You want one that doesn’t have any flowers or buds and is fairly long. This way, you can divide the stem into at least three cuttings. Aim to take a softwood cutting a few weeks into the growing season when it is not too new or too tough. Make your cutting above a leaf joint, the area where the two leaves are growing from. Place your cutting in a damp paper towel to avoid shock. Using a very sharp knife and a cutting board, you will make your first cutting. Cut an inch above the leaf joint, 2 inches below the leaf joint, and then cut off one leaf so you’re left with only one. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in your potting soil. Carefully insert the stem into the hole and fill it up with soil. Ensure your cutting has enough support Repeat the steps until you have a few cuttings. Water your cuttings thoroughly. Cover your seedlings with a clear plastic bag to keep the plants humid. Don’t let your cuttings dry out. Place your cuttings in a warm area out of the direct sun. With a little love and attention at the beginning, you’ll enjoy this lovely climbing vine for years to come. Boulevard Patio Rebecca Clematis More Flowers to Grow Source link
0 notes