TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A BARE-ROOT FRUIT TREE
Steve C. asks: How do I choose a bare root fruit tree? What to I look for?
Why would I want to plant bare root?
Bare root planted trees adapt better to existing soils and will develop a
better root system. You don't have to worry about girdled roots or the tree
being pot-bound. Another plus is that it is less expensive to buy bare root
plants than potted ones.
Buy now while trees are fresh. First check the trunk. There should be no
broken limbs; the tree should be fairly straight with a nice taper to the
trunk. Branches should be well spaced up and down the trunk with no narrow
crotches. (Meaning the branches should be more horizontal than vertical where
they are attached to the trunk.)
Then check the root system. Make sure the roots are firm, well formed and
not dried out. If all the roots are dark in color, slimy and smell bad, rot
has begun. If there is only a little section that looks like this, you can cut
it out.
Rita F. asks: Should I cut back my star Jasmine or just let it grow? If it
needs to be pruned, when should it be done, and can it stand the cold weather?
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is a summmerblooming vine or
ground cover that flowers only on new growth. Shear back one-third in the
spring with hedge shears, or use hand clippers and cut back above a side leaf
to encourage new growth, a fuller appearing plant and more flowers. This plant
is hardy in our area.
Julia H. asks: How do you grow horseradish?
Horseradish does best in a rich, loose soil that is well-drained. You can
buy crown division now, and plant them about 1 foot apart. Dig up the roots
the next season by starting from the outside of the plant and working in. Dig
up the full-grown roots and save the smaller ones for later on.
Tip: Don't forget to water container plants located in protected areas.
They will need the moisture during the winter months. If they are looking a
bit puny (examples would be pansies, stock and snapdragons), give them
periodic applications of all-purpose liquid fertilizer in the recommended
amounts.
Dana Lozano and Gwen Scanlon are partners in a Windsor horticultural
consulting and design business, The Garden Doctors. Got a question? Write to
What Ails Your Garden, Features Department, The Press Democrat, P.O. Box 569,
Santa Rosa 95402. Please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. To hear
their Tip Of The Week, dial 523-8080, then press 2802.
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