From Phgeditors@aol.com Tue, 30 Nov 1999 15:10:49 EST Date: Tue, 30 Nov 1999 15:10:49 EST From: Phgeditors@aol.com Phgeditors@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page What are some good ground covers that will do good in the Phoenix area where there is dappled shade? Also, what is the botanical name for Hearts & Flowers, and is there another common name for it? From sjbass@uswest.net Tue, 30 Nov 1999 14:04:59 -0700 Date: Tue, 30 Nov 1999 14:04:59 -0700 From: Sue Bass sjbass@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Question Ground Covers for Dappled Shade/Hearts & Flowers Hedera canariensis "Algerian Ivy" can be used as a ground cover or a vine. Vinca major "Periwinkle" is another good ground cover for shade. Euonymus fortunei "Purple Leaf Wintercreeper" is good groundcover that produces fruits that are attractive to birds. Cerastium tomentosum, "Snow-in-Summer" does well in light shade. It produces masses of snow-white flowers in early summer. "Hearts and Flowers", whose botanical name is Aptenia cordifolia is a great ground cover, however it prefers full sun and in the book, The Low-Water Flower Gardener by Eric A. Johnson and Scott Millard, it is suggested that it not be planted under trees where leaves may fall on it and be difficult to rake up. "Red Apple" is the variety commonly seen in nurseries in our area. Sue Bass Master Gardener Volunteer Phgeditors@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > What are some good ground covers that will do good in the Phoenix area where > there is dappled shade? > > Also, what is the botanical name for Hearts & Flowers, and is there another > common name for it? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From sjbass@uswest.net Tue, 30 Nov 1999 14:19:20 -0700 Date: Tue, 30 Nov 1999 14:19:20 -0700 From: Sue Bass sjbass@uswest.net Subject: [Fwd: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page] This is a multi-part message in MIME format. --------------A7054F895DFD4E631769FB4A Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit --------------A7054F895DFD4E631769FB4A Content-Type: message/rfc822 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Content-Disposition: inline X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Message-ID: <38443EC0.B9B7B4B3@uswest.net> Date: Tue, 30 Nov 1999 14:16:48 -0700 From: Sue Bass X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.51 [en] (Win98; U) X-Accept-Language: en MIME-Version: 1.0 To: foxgray@uswest.net Subject: Re: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page References: <199911291544.IAA17811@Ag.Arizona.Edu> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit I wouldn't be fearful of planting a desert landscape. Scorpions live in pockets all over the metro area and they live in landscapes in those areas whether they have desert landscaping or a lawn. There are many advantages to having a desert landscape. They can be very lush. Many desert plants have beautiful flowers. Plants native to the desert southwest are very drought tolerant, which means lower water bills. Many of the plants attract birds, especially hummingbirds, and butterflies. My front yard is "desert landscape". We do not have scorpions in our neighborhood. My yard is shaded by a large Palo Brea and flowers are blooming almost all year round on something in the yard. I have brittlebush, which bloom vibrant yellow in late winter to early spring. I have a Baja red fairy duster that is nearly always blooming bright red flowers year round and attracts hummingbirds. My Texas Sage regularly bloom purple and my hesperaloe pinkish red as are my penstomens. My saguaro blooms with huge white flowers in the winter. My ruelia blooms purple trumpets all summer long. Hope this helps! Sue Bass Master Gardener Volunteer foxgray@uswest.net wrote: > arid_gardener > What are the disadvantages to having a desert landscape? We wanted to put rocks in our front yard, but someone told us that it brings scorpions, snakes and things like that. Is that true? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - --------------A7054F895DFD4E631769FB4A-- From dmkerr@dancris.com Wed, 1 Dec 1999 06:33:18 -0700 Date: Wed, 1 Dec 1999 06:33:18 -0700 From: Kerr Family dmkerr@dancris.com Subject: [AG] (no subject) This is a multi-part message in MIME format. ------=_NextPart_000_0056_01BF3BC5.F48F6EA0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable I know frost tender is a relative term. How cold does it have to be, = and for how long to damage romaine lettuce? Basil? Tomato? Brocoli? = Leeks? I have sucesfully kept tomatos alive, but dormant, up against the south = facing wall of my house. The lows where I live are often 10 to 12 = degrees lower than the official Sky Habor numbers on the radio. The = lowest temperature is usually just before dawn. If the radio says 45 or = less, I check my outside thermometer, and cover the plants if it less = than 38. It is amazing to me how often there was no frost on the car = when I get the paper at 6 AM, but definite frost when I go to work at = 7AM. ------=_NextPart_000_0056_01BF3BC5.F48F6EA0 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
I know frost tender is a relative = term.  How=20 cold does it have to be, and for how long to damage romaine = lettuce? =20 Basil?  Tomato?  Brocoli?  Leeks?
 
I have sucesfully kept tomatos alive, = but dormant,=20 up against the south facing wall of my house.  The lows where I = live are=20 often 10 to 12 degrees lower than the official Sky Habor numbers  = on the=20 radio.  The lowest temperature is usually just before dawn.  = If the=20 radio says 45 or less, I check my outside thermometer, and cover the = plants if=20 it less than 38.  It is amazing to me how often there was no frost = on the=20 car when I get the paper at 6 AM, but  definite frost when I go to = work at=20 7AM.
------=_NextPart_000_0056_01BF3BC5.F48F6EA0-- From Efamlie@aol.com Wed, 1 Dec 1999 09:56:25 -0700 (MST) Date: Wed, 1 Dec 1999 09:56:25 -0700 (MST) From: Efamlie@aol.com Efamlie@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page Hello. Every fall I plant two flower beds with petunias. Have never had a problem with them before..always beautiful! This year am having a horrible time with them. The plants slowly develop a "wilt"...then die. I have removed dead petunias and replanted (am on third planting)! Have purchased different petunias from different nurserys--thinking it could be diseased product (?). What is going on....HELP! Thanks so much..anxiously awaiting your reply. Sincerely, Mary From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:16:43 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:16:43 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Re: Christmas Cactus Sorry for the delayed response due to Thanksgiving. I'm also posting your answer to the readers of our website, which you can always use to research your gardening questions: http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/ According to Maricopa County Cooperative Extension publication MC-38: 'To keep them at their best, bright light and day temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees (55 to 65 degrees at night) is recommended. Keep the potting soil evenly moist, not wet. With proper care, they can be kept for years as indoor potted plants." When you water, make sure the root ball is thoroughly moistened, some drainage into tray to ensure leaching. There was no reference to placing them in a period of darkness following the holidays. However, in the Sunset Western Gardening Book (p. 480) there is a reference to increasing the hours of darkness to 12-14 hours during the month of November, as well as cooler night temps (50-55 degrees) to ensure bloom set during the Christmas holiday season. Hope to have a chance to see you during the holidays. Linda Guy Master Gardener "Audrey C. Hill" wrote: > I was going to fumble around on the Internet looking for advice, when > your name popped into my head. I bought a small flowering Christmas > Catus with no instructions as to how to take care of it. I am going to > transplant it into a larger pot, hoping to encourage it to grow LARGE. I > am not good with plants. How often do you water them? Do you know > anything about Christmas Catus? I heard after Christmas you are supposed > to put it in a dark place, like a closet, until next Christmas. Any > ideas?????? > > Looking forward to your help!!! > > Audrey From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:26:06 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:26:06 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Cleaning Terracotta Pots In the event your question was not yet answered: the Arizona Master Gardener Manual, also available online at ag.arizona.edu./pubs/garden/mg/index.html noted the following in the indoor plant section: "Wash soluble salts from clay pots with water and a scrub brush, and wash all pots in a solution of 1 part liquid bleach to 9 parts water." Hope this helps. Linda Guy Master Gardener clnorton@mindspring.com wrote: > How do you clean salt and mineral stains from teracotta pots. From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:41:54 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:41:54 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Palm Bud Rot My understanding is that disease control is treatment of the palm itself (removing all infected material and using a copper fungicide on the bud/crown) and adjacent palms: time is of the essence to prevent spread. Since it appears you already removed the tree, and presuming there are not adjacent, infected specimens, I do not see why the palm can't be replaced, although my experience is with queen palms. You may want to consult our online publication AZ 1021 on Arizona Landscape Palms. Good Luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener HRB85373@aol.com wrote: > we lost a pineapple (phoenix) palm this summer apparently to palm heart rot. Can we plant another in the same location? If not, what could be planted there, a clean small tree or palm? From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:57:04 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:57:04 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Eucalyptus There is an excellent review of eucalyptus in the Sunset Garden Book, page 281. If you knew your variety, their chart would help you to determine whether your tree is suitable for our climate zone. Generally, eucalyptus need deep infrequent waterings. Perhaps your assessment of 'adequate water' is too much. Please refer to our Master Gardener Manual, whose section on irrigation is very instructive, at: http://ag.arizona.edu./pubs/garden/mg/irrigation/Scheduling.html Eucalyptus are susceptible to chlorosis in dense soils or with overwatering. Iron chelates suring the spring and fall growth periods are helpful to manage this condition. Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener antrasian@aol.com wrote: > We have a eucalyptus tree which has some branches on it on which the leaves have died. What might be done to save this tree? It is getting adequate water. > > We're afraid the rest of the tree will die also. > > Thanks. > > Bob antrasian From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:14:21 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:14:21 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Aleppo Pine Death Your tree may have also suffered from a physiological condition known as Aleppo Pine Blight. Our online Master Gardener Manual contains a plant pathology section, with a chart dedicated to pine tree problems. You can reach it at: http://ag.arizona.edu./pubs/garden/mg/pathology/pine.html#pine Hope this will help you to identify the cultivation practice(s) that may have led to the loss of your tree. I concur with Jean's initial response regarding the power lines. I live in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix where Aleppo's are everywhere, about and all around power lines. One problem could be that the pruning practices of the utilities to keep what ultimately becomes an IMMENSE tree out of the power lines have not left a healthy specimen. It's unfortunate, but too often inappropriate trees are planted near the the power lines. I'm married to a utility employee, and as much as they are embarrassed to perform those grossly deforming 'haircuts', it's important for our safety and power supply. After you have the tree removed be sure to consult a tree publication for size and shape before replacing the tree. An excellent reference entitled Desert Shade Trees was co-published by the Desert Botanical Garden, SRP, City of Phoenix, Arizona Forestry Council and Phoenix Urban Forestry several years ago. It specifically addresses the power line issue in its chart. Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener solson@asu.edu wrote: > arid_gardener > I have a large Allepo Pine in my backyard approximately 20 years old. It has suddenly died. The tree is extremely dry, but the trimmer says it is solid. He thinks it died because of the APS wires that run through the branches. What do you think? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:38:53 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:38:53 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Oleander Disease I'm not sure whether we have yet responded to your question. There is an Extension publication devoted to Diseases of Oleander (8213). It is not available online, but you can purchase it by mailing $1 to: Home Horticulture Publications University of Arizona Cooperative Extension 4341 E. Broadway Road Phoenix, AZ 85040 It discusses Oleander gall, Texas root rot, iron chlorosis, frost and drought, and should help you to more specifically identify and treat the condition of your plants. Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener saturn1066@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > The leafs and branches of my oleander are beginning to try drwon and yellow and dry. Many of the branches are now nothing but dry, brittle dead wood. It doesn't appear to be the oleander gall described in the index. Although perhaps it is. Would welcome your recommendation..Please advise.. > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:44:27 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:44:27 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Re: [MG] ocotillo fence Have you tried the Desert Botanical Garden. I seem to recall that one of the newer thematic trails related to native gardening had ocotillo fences. Linda Guy Master Gardener "michelle swayne latkovski (by way of Lucy Bradley )" wrote: > I am interested in any information you may have (or know where I could > find) about installing an ocotillo fence. It's for a community garden/park > in downtown Phoenix called Jardin de la Gente. We have someone from > Gardener's World coming to help with the initial instruction of > installation, but I would like to have a second opinion about it. (She > recommends placing the canes 3- 4 inches apart.) There are other questions > too. And also if any Master Gardeners would like to participate this > Sat/Sun in the installation their help would be greatly appreciated. My > number is 602-716-9189. > > Thanks, > > Michelle Swayne Latkovski > > ______________________________________________________ > Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > Maricopa-mg mailing list > Maricopa-mg@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/maricopa-mg From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:59:49 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 12:59:49 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Pseudopilocereus azureus I could not find your specific species but located a Pilosocereus in my reference book. It makes mention of a 4 foot growth after 10 years outside (approaching only a foot after five years indoors) so either yours is another species or your mother should join our Master Gardener ranks!! I think your best bet is to contact the Central Arizona Cactus and Succulent Society (Gard Roper at 996-9718 or Ken Jantz at 860-2427) or the Desert Botanical Garden Hotline (M-F 10 to 11:30 am 941-1255). Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener emy_wa@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > My mother has a potted blue pseudopilocereus azureus which has reached a height of 7'. > I am afraid the slender cactus will just fall over and someone will be hurt. I currently have a sling around it because the plastic pot is warping from the plant's weight. > > Is it too old (over 10 yrs)to transplant into the yard? > Who would be a likely person to do the work? > Are there buyers for such plants? > > Any info which you can give me will be greatly appreciated. > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Wed, 01 Dec 1999 13:15:44 -0700 Date: Wed, 01 Dec 1999 13:15:44 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Cat control in gardens I live in the Phoenix city area, with small lots, and am constantly waging this battle, since many neighbors let their cats roam all day and night. I use the pepper spray and pumice on the tops of our block fences, with a view to keeping the cats away, but as you note, it is temporary until washed away. A dog outdoors might be helpful. Unfortunately, when the cats are in season and and as many as four are fighting in our backyards and alleys, I have resorted to trapping them (a humane trap) and returning them to their owners with a good-humored explanation (it helps when I share that my own pet bunny who is kept in outdoors is not pleased with them either), and certain 'evidence' of their visits in my yard. It helps to keep the kitties under control for a period of time at least. Most neighbors want to remain on good terms after all. Good luck. Linda Guy Master Gardener Dkaplan765@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I want to find an efficient way to keep cats from using my vegetable garden as a toilet. > I have placed broken pumice stone all over which supposedly hurts their foot pads, I have sprayed pepper/garlic sprays all over (which just rinses right over when the sprinkler comes on) all to no avail. What do you suggest? They are destroying flowers & vegetables besides the unsanitation aspect. > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From RodMcQ6@aol.com Wed, 1 Dec 1999 17:24:33 EST Date: Wed, 1 Dec 1999 17:24:33 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Petunias dying One of the basic rules of gardening is not to plant the same crop for more than two or three years consecutively. What has probably happened is a fungus, most likely Phytophora, has invaded your soil, and petunias are one of its favorite hosts. Check the stem at the soil line of one of the wilting plants; If it is shrunken and brownish in color, then Phytophora or one of the water molds is the problem. Fungicides that are recommended are Captan, Banrot and Subdue. If you replant with another annual do not use Pansies in the winter or Vinca in the summer as they are very susceptible to the same fungi. Be sure not to over water and do not plant any deeper than the top of the root ball. Good luck. Rod From tooldye@earthlink.net Thu, 2 Dec 1999 08:54:09 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 08:54:09 -0700 (MST) From: tooldye@earthlink.net tooldye@earthlink.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I have a beautiful female gingko tree. Every year it produces more and more stinky fruits. Is there any way to reduce the amount of fruit this plant grows and proceeds to drop on my high traffic sidewalk? I've heard rumors of a sterilizer for fruit trees, would this work for the gingko? Would love some help! Kim in KC From jalmcddl@ix.netcom.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 08:59:56 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 08:59:56 -0700 (MST) From: jalmcddl@ix.netcom.com jalmcddl@ix.netcom.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page How do you prune purple fountain grass? 1. Mass straight across cut-back 2. Thin out old 3. Cut out pie section Thanks From cjones@mail.co.gila.az.us Thu, 2 Dec 1999 09:01:13 -0700 Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 09:01:13 -0700 From: Jones, Chris cjones@mail.co.gila.az.us Subject: [AG] Cat control in gardens I'll offer my grandparents method cat control, and you can of course take it or leave. They too used a trap. Instead of returning the cat directly, they'ed give the cat a cold shower with the water hose on full blast before releasing it. Whether that worked to permanently deter the individual from coming in again or not, I'm sure they got a cruel satisfaction from it. But with cats being the intelligent creatures some claim they are, I'm sure they would think twice before going back into their yard for at least the rest of the season. Or at least steer clear of the trap the next night. At least it's no more cruel than an intense pepper burn. Christopher Jones, Extension Agent Agriculture and Natural Resources Programs The University of Arizona Gila County Cooperative Extension 1177 Monroe Street Globe, AZ 85501 Ph: (520) 425-7179 FAX: (520) 425-0265 E-mail: ckjones@ag.arizona.edu -----Original Message----- From: arid_gardener-admin@Ag.Arizona.Edu [mailto:arid_gardener-admin@Ag.Arizona.Edu]On Behalf Of Linda A. Guy Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 1999 1:16 PM To: Dkaplan765@aol.com Cc: arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: Re: [AG] Cat control in gardens arid_gardener I live in the Phoenix city area, with small lots, and am constantly waging this battle, since many neighbors let their cats roam all day and night. I use the pepper spray and pumice on the tops of our block fences, with a view to keeping the cats away, but as you note, it is temporary until washed away. A dog outdoors might be helpful. Unfortunately, when the cats are in season and and as many as four are fighting in our backyards and alleys, I have resorted to trapping them (a humane trap) and returning them to their owners with a good-humored explanation (it helps when I share that my own pet bunny who is kept in outdoors is not pleased with them either), and certain 'evidence' of their visits in my yard. It helps to keep the kitties under control for a period of time at least. Most neighbors want to remain on good terms after all. Good luck. Linda Guy Master Gardener Dkaplan765@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I want to find an efficient way to keep cats from using my vegetable garden as a toilet. > I have placed broken pumice stone all over which supposedly hurts their foot pads, I have sprayed pepper/garlic sprays all over (which just rinses right over when the sprinkler comes on) all to no avail. What do you suggest? They are destroying flowers & vegetables besides the unsanitation aspect. > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - _______________________________________________ Arid_gardener mailing list Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener Archives - From valentine@yahoo.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 11:39:17 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 11:39:17 -0700 (MST) From: valentine@yahoo.com valentine@yahoo.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page how do you buy ants From AzGanna@aol.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 15:27:56 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 15:27:56 -0700 (MST) From: AzGanna@aol.com AzGanna@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I just bought a home in Glendale Az and the ground is continuously wet. How often should winter grass be watered? How often should Citrus trees (orange, tangelo and grapefruit) be watered? How often should bougainvillas and mesquite trees be watered? I would appreciate this information as soon as possible since the ground is really wet and cold and the grass is full of brownish white patches. Thanks for you help. Lynne From LEONARDEM@AOL.COM Thu, 2 Dec 1999 18:07:55 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 18:07:55 -0700 (MST) From: LEONARDEM@AOL.COM LEONARDEM@AOL.COM Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page BEARS LIME TREES WHAT TIME OF THE YEAR ARE THE FRUIT READY FOR PICKING From tomwelsch@hotmail.com Thu, 02 Dec 1999 19:28:14 MST Date: Thu, 02 Dec 1999 19:28:14 MST From: tom welsch tomwelsch@hotmail.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I don't know about barrier or deterrent methods... I have dogs, and they absolutely love my flower beds... why not? It is after all the coolest, softest soil around in the yard. so I always make sure to till and amend and water an area for them... You may want to try this, it works with my dogs, which usually just want a nice place to lay down. Sounds like these cats just want a nice place to do their business... Hope it helps. Tom Welsch master Gardener Volunteer >From: Dkaplan765@aol.com >To: >Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page >Date: Sun, 28 Nov 1999 20:50:09 -0700 (MST) > >arid_gardener >I want to find an efficient way to keep cats from using my vegetable garden >as a toilet. >I have placed broken pumice stone all over which supposedly hurts their >foot pads, I have sprayed pepper/garlic sprays all over (which just rinses >right over when the sprinkler comes on) all to no avail. What do you >suggest? They are destroying flowers & vegetables besides the unsanitation >aspect. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com From millero@worldnet.att.net Thu, 2 Dec 1999 21:42:40 -0700 Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 21:42:40 -0700 From: Olin Miller millero@worldnet.att.net Subject: [AG] Re: clarification needed on planting zones There is dot jpg AHS Plant Heat-Zone Map with an overlay of the color-coded Heat-Zones at http://www.suite101.com/userfiles/79/hz1024.jpg . It shows most of Maricopa County in Zone 11. The northwest corner, probably the Bradshaws, and the northern edge of the county along the New River mountains appear to be in Zone 10. Kinda hard to tell the difference between dark orange and darker orange. My previous post on the subject had indicated the map was not available on the web. -Olin From Jenfloy@aol.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 23:32:42 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 23:32:42 -0700 (MST) From: Jenfloy@aol.com Jenfloy@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I planted a saphire dragon tree back in October and it's only grown to about 4 feet tall. The info sheet that came with it says that if the tree doesn't make 5 feet by the first frost then you are to cut it back and wait till the spring. I will I know that I need to cut it back? Will it just go brown and dry up? I do I know that it didn't get tall enough? From dgkazmer@juno.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 04:31:26 -0700 Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 04:31:26 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Re: Christmas Cactus My Christmas Cactus died the summer I kept it on an east facing patio near Phoenix. It got too hot there! In Northern Ohio, my Christmas Cactus was kept near a South facing sliding glass door to a green house off the basement of my home. It got sun but was cool through the winter (50 degrees). It was watered haphazardly (when the pads got soft and rather empty looking). This plant was brought into the warm part of the house when it showed buds until they were done blooming and then it went back to the basement. It was a peachy pink and bloomed twice a year ~ near Thanksgiving and around Easter. There are other heat sensitive plants: hens & chicks............... Very few plants can survive long in complete shade............. On Wed, 01 Dec 1999 11:16:43 -0700 "Linda A. Guy" writes: >arid_gardener >Sorry for the delayed response due to Thanksgiving. I'm also posting >your >answer to the readers of our website, which you can always use to >research >your gardening questions: >http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/ > >According to Maricopa County Cooperative Extension publication MC-38: >'To keep them at their best, bright light and day temperatures of 65 >to 70 >degrees (55 to 65 degrees at night) is recommended. Keep the potting >soil >evenly moist, not wet. With proper care, they can be kept for years as >indoor >potted plants." When you water, make sure the root ball is thoroughly >moistened, some drainage into tray to ensure leaching. > >There was no reference to placing them in a period of darkness >following the >holidays. However, in the Sunset Western Gardening Book (p. 480) there >is a >reference to increasing the hours of darkness to 12-14 hours during >the month >of November, as well as cooler night temps (50-55 degrees) to ensure >bloom >set during the Christmas holiday season. > >Hope to have a chance to see you during the holidays. > >Linda Guy >Master Gardener > >"Audrey C. Hill" wrote: > >> I was going to fumble around on the Internet looking for advice, >when >> your name popped into my head. I bought a small flowering >Christmas >> Catus with no instructions as to how to take care of it. I am going >to >> transplant it into a larger pot, hoping to encourage it to grow >LARGE. I >> am not good with plants. How often do you water them? Do you know >> anything about Christmas Catus? I heard after Christmas you are >supposed >> to put it in a dark place, like a closet, until next Christmas. >Any >> ideas?????? >> >> Looking forward to your help!!! >> >> Audrey > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Thu, 2 Dec 1999 04:22:00 -0700 Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 04:22:00 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Petunias When I have a problem like yours, I change the plant..... crop rotation. Your soil has become infected or even deficient in some micronutrient that petunias need. By using a different plant you'll starve the infecting micro organism or use different micronutrients. Try sweet peas in the cool weather to improve the soil. You have ample evidence that petunias are unsuccessful in that spot. Geraniums, calendula, annual poppies, marigolds, pansies, English daisies are common cool weather plants to consider. Vinca, cosmos, zinnia, sunflowers (there are some shorter & double ones) are possible hot weather ones. On Wed, 1 Dec 1999 09:56:25 -0700 (MST) Efamlie@aol.com writes: >arid_gardener >Hello. Every fall I plant two flower beds with petunias. Have never >had a problem with them before..always beautiful! This year am having >a horrible time with them. The plants slowly develop a "wilt"...then >die. I have removed dead petunias and replanted (am on third >planting)! Have purchased different petunias from different >nurserys--thinking it could be diseased product (?). What is going >on....HELP! Thanks so much..anxiously awaiting your reply. >Sincerely, Mary > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From popsy@wans.ner Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:23:59 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:23:59 -0700 (MST) From: popsy@wans.ner popsy@wans.ner Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page My mother in Black Canyon City had a silk tree (albizia) that seemed to do well for a while after planted, then started to decline. They inspected the roots and found small (less than 1/4 inch)fuzzy ball-like, whitish protrusions on the roots. They would be in clusters up to an inch wide. Could this be a fungus that killed the tree? If so, how does one deal with it? From popsy@access1.net Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:27:34 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:27:34 -0700 (MST) From: popsy@access1.net popsy@access1.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I just sent duplicate messages, the second because my email address was wrong in the first, the one given with this messages is correct. From HelensBaby@aol.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 08:07:11 -0700 (MST) Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 08:07:11 -0700 (MST) From: HelensBaby@aol.com HelensBaby@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I am trying to find some information on the Jacaranda tree. A neighbor had one and I noticed it grew very fast. I live in Yuma. Any information you can give me about this tree will be appreciated. Thank you From popsy@access1.net Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:25:04 -0700 (MST) Date: Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:25:04 -0700 (MST) From: popsy@access1.net popsy@access1.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page My mother in Black Canyon City had a silk tree (albizia) that seemed to do well for a while after planted, then started to decline. They inspected the roots and found small (less than 1/4 inch)fuzzy ball-like, whitish protrusions on the roots. They would be in clusters up to an inch wide. Could this be a fungus that killed the tree? If so, how does one deal with it? From RodMcQ6@aol.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 11:14:52 EST Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 11:14:52 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Fwd: Watering landscape plants --part1_0.5824f7e8.2579467c_boundary Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit --part1_0.5824f7e8.2579467c_boundary Content-Type: message/rfc822 Content-Disposition: inline Return-path: RodMcQ6@aol.com From: RodMcQ6@aol.com Full-name: RodMcQ6 Message-ID: <0.be622028.257945c5@aol.com> Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 11:11:49 EST Subject: Watering landscape plants To: AZGanna@aol.com MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Mailer: Windows AOL sub 45 Lynne, If your grass is winter rye watering every three to four days should be adequate, if it is Bermuda then water it once a month during the cooler months. The citrus and mesquite if just planted should be deep watered every two weeks, if they are established over a year then once a month. With the Bougainvillea once it has become established ( one year old ) you will have more blooms if you remove the water entirely except for deep watering once a month during the hot weather. Check out the Master Gardener Manual chapter on irrigation at: http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/mg/arboriculture/watering.html Good luck. Rod --part1_0.5824f7e8.2579467c_boundary-- From ClaireASP@aol.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 17:48:38 -0700 (MST) Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 17:48:38 -0700 (MST) From: ClaireASP@aol.com ClaireASP@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page My son just recently moved into a new home in Gilbert. He has to landscape the backyard. He is just like me; very interested in plants. On his Christmas list, he asked for a Queen Palm. Would this be a bad time of the year for him to plant this? I thought that maybe Spring would be better. Let me know what you think. Thanks for all your help. From dgkazmer@juno.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:08:51 -0700 Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:08:51 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] watering Your irrigation system has defaulted to everyday watering..... a very bad idea. The ground needs to dry out between wet periods or fungus disease will take over. Citrus & bougainvillas need water about once a month during the coolest months in AZ. The grass probably needs it once a week. When you water, put on enough to get those roots wet (for grass - a foot down) {for citrus - 3 feet down} then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. You will need to pay attention to quantity the first couple of times after changing the settings. You probably need to change the battery that backs up your electrical system, too. On Thu, 2 Dec 1999 15:27:56 -0700 (MST) AzGanna@aol.com writes: >arid_gardener >I just bought a home in Glendale Az and the ground is continuously >wet. How often should winter grass be watered? How often should >Citrus trees (orange, tangelo and grapefruit) be watered? How often >should bougainvillas and mesquite trees be watered? > >I would appreciate this information as soon as possible since the >ground is really wet and cold and the grass is full of brownish white >patches. > >Thanks for you help. Lynne > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:45:49 -0700 Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:45:49 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Citrus Ripening I picked most of my limes by last week (one still on the tree). They get sweeter as they hang on which doesn't bother me and I didn't have enough to give away since this is one dwarf tree that is really going to be dwarf................. My Lisbon lemon is planted north of a 5 foot tall wall and I've been picking them since October while they were still green. They are just starting to turn yellow................. This "dwarf" tree was planted 6 feet from my back door and, of course, is not going to be dwarf!!! so I'm pruning regularly to control the thorny branches. My OLD citrus book by Richard Ray & Lance Walheim: "Citrus: How to Select, Grow and Enjoy" lists for Cal. & Ariz. Desert Zone: Washington Navel Orange = Mid Nov.-Dec. Trovita Orange Jan - Feb Marrs (natural dwarf) orange Oct - Feb Encore Mandarine Mar - June Kinnow Dec - Feb Eureka Lemon Sep - Oct; Mar - May Lisbon Lemon Sep - Oct; Apr - June Ponderosa Sep - Aug Marsh & Red Blush Grapefruit Jan - May Mexican Lime July - Oct. Bearss Jun - Sep Minneola Tangelo Jan - Feb Orlando Tangelo Dec - Feb My book is old and I've left out several varieties. They tend to ripen December - Feb. I've planted a Valencia Orange because it ripens later (March) than my other varieties. I've tasted all my trees this month and they are a bit sour to my taste............ However, I leave grapefruit on (since my tree is so big and I don't mind lessening my next crop). The grapefruit is not really eatable after late August; you can tell the difference between each years crop from the fruit color. Color is not an indicator for taste........ On Thu, 2 Dec 1999 18:07:55 -0700 (MST) LEONARDEM@AOL.COM writes: >arid_gardener >BEARS LIME TREES >WHAT TIME OF THE YEAR ARE THE FRUIT READY FOR PICKING > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:03:08 -0700 Date: Fri, 3 Dec 1999 07:03:08 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] ants Ants are attracted to organic matter and will come when you add sawdust or even manure to soil. They also love the drippings from hummingbird feeders if your feeder sways at all in the wind................... On Thu, 2 Dec 1999 11:39:17 -0700 (MST) valentine@yahoo.com writes: >arid_gardener >how do you buy ants > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From mr_mike@bigfoot.com Sat, 4 Dec 1999 08:34:35 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 4 Dec 1999 08:34:35 -0700 (MST) From: mr_mike@bigfoot.com mr_mike@bigfoot.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page The plant commonly known as Brittlebush; should it be pruned back? If so, when and how much? From sjbass@uswest.net Sat, 04 Dec 1999 08:59:16 -0700 Date: Sat, 04 Dec 1999 08:59:16 -0700 From: Sue Bass sjbass@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Brittlebush >From the book The Low-Water Flower Gardener, by Eric A. Johnson and Scott Millard: Brittlebush, Encelia farinosa: With time, landscape plants often develop heavy woody branches. Thin and cut back soft branches at least one-third, maintaining natural form, for renewed growth after flowering. After shearing, selectively thin inside branches to allow sunlight into the plant's interior. Sue Bass Master Gardener mr_mike@bigfoot.com wrote: > arid_gardener > The plant commonly known as Brittlebush; > should it be pruned back? If so, when and > how much? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From sjbass@uswest.net Sat, 04 Dec 1999 09:14:22 -0700 Date: Sat, 04 Dec 1999 09:14:22 -0700 From: Sue Bass sjbass@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Jacaranda The following information was found in the Sunset Western Garden Book: Jacaranda mimosifolia, deciduous to semi evergreen tree, hardy in zones 12, 13 and 15-24 (Yuma is zone 13). Requires full sun and infrequent watering. It is native to Brazil and often sold as J. acutifolia. Grows 25-40 ft high, 15-30 ft wide. Open, irregular, oval headed; sometimes multitrunked or even shrubby. Finely cut, fern like leaves, usually dropping in February-March. New leaves may grow quickly or branches may remain bare until tree flowers - usually in June, but bloom is possible any time from April to September. Blossoms lavender blue, tubular, 2 inches long in many 8-inch clusters. white-flowered "Alba" is sometimes seen, lusher foliage, longer blooming period, and sparser flowers. All forms have roundish, flat seed capsules, quite decorative in arrangements. Fairly hardy after it attains some mature, hard wood; young plants are tender below 25 degrees but often come back from freeze to make multistemmed, shrubby plants. Takes a wide variety of soils but does best in sandy soil. I hope this helps! Sue Bass Master Gardener HelensBaby@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I am trying to find some information on the Jacaranda tree. A neighbor had one and I noticed it grew very fast. I live in Yuma. Any information you can give me about this tree will be appreciated. Thank you > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From RodMcQ6@aol.com Sat, 4 Dec 1999 18:36:40 EST Date: Sat, 4 Dec 1999 18:36:40 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Queen Palm , Planting Time The preferred time to plant a Queen Palm is spring to early summer, however in the low desert I see them planted year round. My recommendation would be to avoid planting during November thru February. You can access the U of A Bulletin on Arizona Landscape Palms at: http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/az1021.pdf You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open it; if you don't have Adobe you can download it free. Good luck. Rod From BradleyL@Ag.Arizona.Edu Sat, 04 Dec 1999 16:13:32 -0700 Date: Sat, 04 Dec 1999 16:13:32 -0700 From: Lucy Bradley BradleyL@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: [AG] Right Plant, Right Place Perhaps one of the other messages in this story is the importance of choosing to place plants in locations with room for their mature height. Choose not to plant trees and other tall plants near power lines. Lucy At 06:54 AM 11/30/1999 -0700, you wrote: >arid_gardener >There have been a few pruned in a similar way near where I live and they >got arms just below the cut. None of them died. It doesn't look like >anything was done to the cuts. It is amazing how much nerve some >people have! Did SRP remove the prunings? Apparently saguaro >cactus root from the ribs so you could try propagating the pieces. >You grieve for the plant but perhaps you will like the new shape in a few >years. The 45 degree angle will help water run off and avoid rot >problems............. There is a black oozing, bacterial infection that >devastates saguaro when it occurs but that is the only thing that usually >kills them other than too much water. > > >On Sun, 28 Nov 1999 21:31:09 -0700 (MST) alan35@goodnet.com writes: > >arid_gardener > >Recently, SRP pruned, without my permission or knowledge, my 50+ year > >old Saguaro Cactus. They cut the top off at about a 45' angle. What > >harm will this do to the plant? My understanding is that is will allow > >the moisture stored inside to evaporate, killing the beautiful old > >plant. Are there any preventive measures that can be taken to preserve > >this fantastic plant. > > > >Thanks for any help you can provide. > >Alan > >WebMaster@TheWall-USA.com > > > >The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Page > >http://thewall-usa.com > > > > > > > >_______________________________________________ > >Arid_gardener mailing list > >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > >Archives - > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - Lucy K. Bradley Extension Agent, Urban Horticulture Maricopa County The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension 4341 E Broadway Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85040-8807 Phone: (602) 470-8086 ext 323 Fax: (602) 470-8092 email: BradleyL@ag.arizona.edu http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/ From dgkazmer@juno.com Sat, 4 Dec 1999 06:00:37 -0700 Date: Sat, 4 Dec 1999 06:00:37 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Re: silk tree (albizia) The plant nurisher needs to think about how the area was treated: how much water? how often? how much fertilizer? how often? How does the land drain? what is the condition of that soil? sandy? pH? organic content? How much sun does the area get each day in summer? winter? This thinking period may yield the knowledge of what might have caused the decline. . . After considering all possible varients, it is probably best to chose from another family of plants than the one which has just died. I'm pretty sure that Baker's Nursery has an outstanding specimen of "silk floss tree" behind the main cash register over a patio containing a water feature................ Perhaps Jim Baker could advise you about possible threats to the species. On Thu, 2 Dec 1999 19:23:59 -0700 (MST) popsy@wans.ner writes: >arid_gardener >My mother in Black Canyon City had a silk tree (albizia) that seemed >to do well for a while after planted, then started to decline. They >inspected the roots and found small (less than 1/4 inch)fuzzy >ball-like, whitish protrusions on the roots. They would be in clusters >up to an inch wide. Could this be a fungus that killed the tree? If >so, how does one deal with it? > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From babsdelite@aol.com Sat, 4 Dec 1999 22:30:30 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 4 Dec 1999 22:30:30 -0700 (MST) From: babsdelite@aol.com babsdelite@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page What time of year is it best to fertilize citrus trees and queen palms? I'll be waiting for your reply. Thanks, Babs From RodMcQ6@aol.com Sun, 5 Dec 1999 14:15:49 EST Date: Sun, 5 Dec 1999 14:15:49 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Fertilizing citrus and Queen palms Babs, Both citrus and Queen Palms will benefit from fertilizing three to four times a year starting in February or March and ending in July or August. Be sure that you use a fertilizer designed for the Queen Palms on the palms for they have special needs. Good luck. Rod From thelma@c2i2.com Sun, 5 Dec 1999 10:18:06 -0700 (MST) Date: Sun, 5 Dec 1999 10:18:06 -0700 (MST) From: thelma@c2i2.com thelma@c2i2.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page what time of the year do I prune my roses From RodMcQ6@aol.com Mon, 6 Dec 1999 16:28:21 EST Date: Mon, 6 Dec 1999 16:28:21 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Roses, Pruning Thelma, If you live in the low desert, January is the time to prune roses. We also prune in September, but much lighter. If you would like info on how to prune roses, I'll be glad to send you the latest. Good luck. Rod McKusick, Master Gardener and Consulting Rosarian From cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Tue, 07 Dec 1999 10:34:15 -0700 Date: Tue, 07 Dec 1999 10:34:15 -0700 From: Carol Noyes cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: [AG] (no subject) Comment: I am having a cat problem in my vegetable/flower gardens. They >use it for a toilet thus digging up the plants. They are my own 2 cats in >addition to a neighborhood cat so trapping them is not the answer since >they live here and are outside cats. Pepper/garlic spray on the plants >doesn't work as it washes away immediately and the pumice stone I have >scattered in the exposed soil does not seem to deter them either. Please respond to DKaplan765@aol.com Carol Noyes Administrative Secretary Maricopa County Urban Horticulture/Master Gardener programs 602-470-8086 Ext. 308 Have a wonderful day!! ~ U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~ From alwardt@futureone.com Mon, 6 Dec 1999 18:08:58 -0700 (MST) Date: Mon, 6 Dec 1999 18:08:58 -0700 (MST) From: alwardt@futureone.com alwardt@futureone.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page The first two years of production on my single tangerine tree have produced a large crop of small, thin-skinned,beautifully colored and textured "very sour" fruit. The tree is on a drip system. We live in the desert near Aguila. Is there anything that can be done to make this abundant crop edible? From tderieg@goodnet.com Tue, 7 Dec 1999 12:39:54 -0700 Date: Tue, 7 Dec 1999 12:39:54 -0700 From: Tom Derieg tderieg@goodnet.com Subject: [AG] pre-emergent treatment for spurge in lawn This is a multi-part message in MIME format. ------=_NextPart_000_0059_01BF40B0.29C8A3E0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable I read that this is the time to put on the pre emergent treatment for = weeds in the lawn but don't know what to use. I can find things to kill = the weeds but they also kill the grass. The one thing I found said to = apply when the weeds are growing but the spurge doesn't really grow till = the weather gets hot. Is this the right time and if so could you give me = a brand name and maybe where to find it? I looked at Home Depot and Tip = Top Nursery. Thanks. Peggy Derieg ------=_NextPart_000_0059_01BF40B0.29C8A3E0 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
I read that this is the time to put on the pre = emergent=20 treatment for weeds in the lawn but don't know what to use. I can find = things to=20 kill the weeds but they also kill the grass.  The one thing I found = said to=20 apply when the weeds are growing but the spurge doesn't really grow till = the=20 weather gets hot. Is this the right time and if so could you give me a = brand=20 name and maybe where to find it?  I looked at Home Depot and Tip = Top=20 Nursery.  Thanks.  Peggy Derieg
------=_NextPart_000_0059_01BF40B0.29C8A3E0-- From rknott@inficad.com Tue, 7 Dec 1999 22:30:51 -0700 (MST) Date: Tue, 7 Dec 1999 22:30:51 -0700 (MST) From: rknott@inficad.com rknott@inficad.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I have a drip system (2 gal/hr) one setting for plants and one for a flower bed. Is there a watering guideline for how long, and how many days/week that I should water during the different seasons. Thank you, Ray Knott (Sun Lakes) From Tpjscarp@aol.com Wed, 8 Dec 1999 16:37:48 -0700 (MST) Date: Wed, 8 Dec 1999 16:37:48 -0700 (MST) From: Tpjscarp@aol.com Tpjscarp@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page how much water does a mexican fan palm need in gallons per week or month 3 years old? From judithcheek@yahoo.com Wed, 8 Dec 1999 19:06:46 -0700 (MST) Date: Wed, 8 Dec 1999 19:06:46 -0700 (MST) From: judithcheek@yahoo.com judithcheek@yahoo.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I was recently at the Botanical gardens in Phoenix and saw a plant there i thought was beautiful. It is called Brittlebush (silvery leaves and stems). I checked a few places near where I live but nobody had it. where can I buy Brittlebush? From mike.todd@asu.edu Thu, 09 Dec 1999 14:46:26 -0700 Date: Thu, 09 Dec 1999 14:46:26 -0700 From: Michael Todd mike.todd@asu.edu Subject: [AG] Re: Arid_gardener digest, Vol 1 #44 - 2 msgs Hi Judith: Could you give us an idea of where you live? That might help narrow down the list of places to check out. For what it's worth, in my experience, Brittlebush (along with a lot of other low desert plants) are hard to find at the nurseries in the winter. The nurseries tend to have these as the weather warms up and the plants start leafing out and/or blooming. Hope we can help. -mike t. arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu writes: >Message: 2 >Date: Wed, 8 Dec 1999 19:06:46 -0700 (MST) >From: >To: >Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page > >I was recently at the Botanical gardens in Phoenix and saw a plant there >i thought was beautiful. It is called Brittlebush (silvery leaves and >stems). I checked a few places near where I live but nobody had it. >where can I buy Brittlebush? Mike Todd Graduate Research Associate Dept of Psychology | Dept of Social and Behavioral Sciences-MC 3051 Arizona State University | Arizona State University West PO Box 871104 | PO Box 37100 Tempe AZ 85287-1104 | Phoenix AZ 85069-7100 E-mail: mike.todd@asu.edu ASU Psychology-Voice:480.965.3326 (mssg only); Fax: 480.965.8544 ASUW Social & Behavioral Sci-Voice: 602.543.6324; Fax: 602.543.6004 From saz621@primenet.com Thu, 09 Dec 1999 13:43:33 -0700 Date: Thu, 09 Dec 1999 13:43:33 -0700 From: Mary Irish saz621@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page Mary Irish wrote: > Judith, > You can find that plant at most TipTop Nurseries, Baker's Nursery, and most certainly at Desert Tree Nursery. There are others I am sure. Good luck, Mary > > judithcheek@yahoo.com wrote: > > > arid_gardener > > I was recently at the Botanical gardens in Phoenix and saw a plant there i thought was beautiful. It is called Brittlebush (silvery leaves and stems). I checked a few places near where I live but nobody had it. where can I buy Brittlebush? > > > > _______________________________________________ > > Arid_gardener mailing list > > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > > Archives - From mhills_sro@email.msn.com Fri, 10 Dec 1999 12:09:18 -0700 Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 12:09:18 -0700 From: Mike Hills mhills_sro@email.msn.com Subject: [AG] pre-emergent treatment for spurge in lawn This is a multi-part message in MIME format. ------=_NextPart_000_00EB_01BF4307.624B5740 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Hello Tom & Peggy Derieg Hope that this is a little helpful in your search for a Pre-Emergent = Herbicide for your lawn. I assume that you have a bermudagrass lawn of come variety and are a low = desert resident. Did you overseed with ryegrass this fall? The = instructions on the bag that you thought meant that it could kill the = grass usually refers to new grass seedlings - not to a mature turf = plants. If your ryegrass has been in for a couple months now, you can = go ahead and apply one of these "weed & feed" type products at the rate = recommended on the bag (NOT any higher!) and should have no problems = with death to your ryegrass or the underlying dormant bermuda plants. = You just should not apply before or shortly after putting down ryegrass = seed in the fall, OR new bermuda seed in the late spring/summer. Generally we recommend that the pre-emergent herbicide and fertilizer = combination products are applied in the Fall (if you do not overseed) = and again in early Spring (whether you overseed or not) - this will = help take care of the crop of fall sprouting weed species and the crop = of spring sprouters (like spurge) as they pop up. Read the bag labels = closely and make sure it says Pre-emergent and then apply in February or = early March for spurge control. Lots of different brand labels, so = cannot recommend any specific brand - just depends on the one that = your store has in stock. The post-emergent weed killers are for treatment of weeds in winter and = summer, after the weeds already germinated and established because you = missed your fall or spring applications of pre-emergents. The winter = cold should kill any spurge you have in your lawn now, and a properly = applied early spring product should stop most of the seeds from = sprouting next year. One thing - usually the nurseries and garden centers do not stock = these pre-emergents in mid-summer and mid-winter, which may explain your = difficulty finding them. They stock them only during the part of the = year when they should be applied - early spring and early fall. Wait = until February to look for it again.=20 ALSO, a critical factor in weed control in a lwan is to keep the lawn = thick and dense and healthy. Proper lawn care - watering, mowing, = fertilizing, etc. - will usually prevent thin or bare areas - no thin or = bare areas means no sunlight o nthe soil which =3D no weed seeds = sprouting each year. Check our University of Arizona and Maricopa = County Extension website for turf care information to get your lawn = healthy again. ALSO, we have a turf and lawn care class scheduled for = this year that would probably help you a lot. Contact Master Gardener = Lori Thompson at lthompson@rocketmail.com for details of time, date, = cost, etc. for this upcoming class session. Good Luck! =20 Mike Hills Volunteer Master Gardener, Maricopa County ********************************************************** -----Original Message----- From: Tom Derieg To: arid gardener Date: Tuesday, December 07, 1999 12:49 PM Subject: [AG] pre-emergent treatment for spurge in lawn =20 =20 I read that this is the time to put on the pre emergent treatment = for weeds in the lawn but don't know what to use. I can find things to = kill the weeds but they also kill the grass. The one thing I found said = to apply when the weeds are growing but the spurge doesn't really grow = till the weather gets hot. Is this the right time and if so could you = give me a brand name and maybe where to find it? I looked at Home Depot = and Tip Top Nursery. Thanks. Peggy Derieg ------=_NextPart_000_00EB_01BF4307.624B5740 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
Hello Tom & Peggy = Derieg
 
 
Hope that this is a little helpful in your search = for a=20 Pre-Emergent Herbicide for your lawn.
 
I assume that you have a bermudagrass lawn of come = variety and=20 are a low desert resident.    Did you overseed with = ryegrass this=20 fall?     The instructions on the bag that you = thought meant=20 that it could kill the grass usually refers to new grass seedlings  = - =20 not to a mature turf plants.    If your ryegrass has been = in for=20 a couple months now, you can go ahead and apply one of these "weed = &=20 feed" type products at the rate recommended on the bag (NOT any = higher!)=20 and should have no problems with death to your ryegrass or the = underlying=20 dormant bermuda plants.   You just should not apply before or = shortly=20 after putting down ryegrass seed in the fall, OR new bermuda seed in the = late=20 spring/summer.
 
Generally we recommend that the pre-emergent = herbicide and=20 fertilizer combination products are applied in the Fall (if you do not = overseed)=20 and again in early Spring (whether you overseed or not)  -  = this will=20 help take care of the crop of fall sprouting weed species and the crop = of spring=20 sprouters (like spurge) as they pop up.   Read the bag labels = closely=20 and make sure it says Pre-emergent and then apply in February or early = March for=20 spurge control.    Lots of different brand labels, so = cannot=20 recommend any specific brand  -  just depends on the one that = your=20 store has in stock.
 
The post-emergent weed killers are = for treatment=20 of weeds in winter and summer, after the weeds already germinated and=20 established because you missed your fall or spring applications of=20 pre-emergents.    The winter cold should kill any spurge = you have=20 in your lawn now, and a properly applied early spring product should = stop most=20 of the seeds from sprouting next year.
 
One thing  -  usually the nurseries and = garden=20 centers do not stock these pre-emergents in mid-summer and mid-winter, = which may=20 explain your difficulty finding them.   They stock them only = during=20 the part of the year when they should be applied - early spring and = early=20 fall.    Wait until February to look for it again. =
 
ALSO, a critical factor in weed control in a lwan is = to keep=20 the lawn thick and dense and healthy.    Proper lawn care = -=20 watering, mowing, fertilizing, etc. - will usually prevent thin or bare = areas -=20 no thin or bare areas means no sunlight o nthe soil which =3D no weed = seeds=20 sprouting each year.    Check our University of Arizona = and=20 Maricopa County Extension website for turf care information to get your = lawn=20 healthy again.   ALSO, we have a turf and lawn care class = scheduled=20 for this year that would probably help you a lot.    = Contact=20 Master Gardener Lori Thompson at lthompson@rocketmail.com&nbs= p; for=20 details of time, date, cost, etc. for this upcoming class = session.
 
Good Luck!  
Mike Hills
Volunteer Master Gardener, Maricopa = County
**********************************************************
-----Original = Message-----
From:=20 Tom Derieg <tderieg@goodnet.com>
To:= =20 arid gardener <arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu= >
Date:=20 Tuesday, December 07, 1999 12:49 PM
Subject: [AG] = pre-emergent=20 treatment for spurge in lawn

I read that this is the time to put on the = pre=20 emergent treatment for weeds in the lawn but don't know what to use. = I can=20 find things to kill the weeds but they also kill the grass.  = The one=20 thing I found said to apply when the weeds are growing but the = spurge=20 doesn't really grow till the weather gets hot. Is this the right = time and if=20 so could you give me a brand name and maybe where to find it?  = I looked=20 at Home Depot and Tip Top Nursery.  Thanks.  Peggy=20 Derieg
------=_NextPart_000_00EB_01BF4307.624B5740-- From cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Fri, 10 Dec 1999 15:58:29 -0700 Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 15:58:29 -0700 From: Carol Noyes cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: [AG] Institute of Desert Ecology --=====================_27191974==_.ALT Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" In cooperation with Arizona State Parks Board and the University of Arizona 30th Annual Institute of Desert Ecology April 13-16,2000 Catalina State Park Tucson, Arizona Faculty: -Ronnie Sidner, Ph.D., Consulting Biologist (Mammals) -Carol Olson, M.S., University of Arizona (Entomology) -Cecil Schwalbe, Ph.D., University of Arizona (Herpetology)-Linwood Smith, Ph.D., University of Arizona (Birds & Plants) -Carl Tomoff, Ph.D., Prescott College (Birds & Plants) -Bob Scarborough, Consulting Geologist (Geology) University Credit: Graduate or undergraduate credit is available through the University of Arizona (RNR 497/597B - Desert Ecosystems, 1 unit) for an additional fee of $111 (undergraduate) or $121 (graduate), payable at the Institute (these fees may change). Since 1970, The Audubon Institute of Desert Ecology has been a means of bringing together 60-65 participants and six expert instructors for field studies of the Sonoran Desert. The Institute will be held at Catalina State Park, at the base of Santa Catalina Mountains, April 13-16, 2000. One unit of college credit may be earned during the sessions. DATES: The Institute begins on Thursday, April 13 at 6:30 am, however, all participants are encourages to arrive on Wednesday, April 12 after 4 pm to register and set up camp. The Desert Institute fee includes a waiver of park entrance and camping fees for April 12 through 16. The program will end at 2:30 pm on Sunday, April 16. LOCATION: The site of the Desert Institute is Catalina State Park. The spectacular northwest face of the Santa Catalina Mountains forms the backdrop for this 5,500 acre desert park located just north of Tucson at elevations ranging form 2,650 to 3,000 feet. The desert washes, canyons and bajadas contain a vast array of desert plants and wildlife. The park is a popular birding area and has a bird list of over 150 species that have been seen within its borders. Our camping area is comfortably shaded by mesquite trees, adjacent to undisturbed desert washes, canyons, hillsides, and rich riparian areas, and secluded from other campgrounds. Days should be sunny and hot, but expect chilly evenings. PROGRAM: Our study will focus on Sonoran Desert ecosystems with emphasis on relationships between plant life, animals, and the physical characteristics of the desert rather than classification and identification. Our days start early and optional activities such as owling, blacklighting for insects and star talks extend into the evening hours. Participants and faculty interact in small groups during the first three days. On Sunday morning, a final hike ties together the experiences of earlier sessions for the entire group. PARTICIPANTS: Those who attend do not need to be members of the Audobon Society. They should be at least 18 years old and in good health. Registration is limited to no more than 65 people. Faculty members are experienced at teaching students with different knowledge levels; anyone with an interest in natural history and desert ecology can participate. No pets are allowed. ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEALS: Participants furnish their own tents or campers. Water is available at the site, but there are no electrical or water hookups. To avoid disrupting the peaceful surroundings, operation of generators is not permitted at the site. Solar showers and portable restrooms are provided, and the park has holding tank disposal facilities. Ample, tasty meals are catered from an on-site unit, with adequate choices to accommodate vegetarians. Before early field sessions, a nutritious pre-breakfast snack is available. Contact the director for further information about arrangements. FEE & REGISTRATION: The cost of $295 per person includes instruction, camp services, and all meals beginning with breakfast on Thursday morning and ending with lunch on Sunday. A non-refundable deposit of $45 per person must accompany the registration form. The balance is due by March 10, 2000. Please make checks payable to the Institute of Desert Ecology. No money will be refunded for cancellations received after April 1, 2000, unless we can fill the vacancy from the waiting list. A few partial scholarships are available (contact your director for information). *To avoid disappointment, please register early, since the Institute is often fully enrolled several months in advance. *We welcome donations for scholarships. These donations are tax deductible. IMPORTANT: Please make departing flight reservations for 4pm or later. QUESTIONS? Contact Tucson Audubon Society, Institute of Desert Ecology, 300 E. University Blvd #120, Tucson, AZ 85705 DIRECTOR: Leona J. Lansing, 520-721-7386, sonoralee@aol.com Carol Noyes Administrative Secretary Maricopa County Urban Horticulture/Master Gardener programs 602-470-8086 Ext. 308 Have a wonderful day!! ~ U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~ --=====================_27191974==_.ALT Content-Type: text/html; charset="us-ascii"
In cooperation with Arizona State Parks Board and the University of Arizona
30th Annual Institute of Desert Ecology
April 13-16,2000
Catalina State Park
Tucson, Arizona

Faculty:        -Ronnie Sidner, Ph.D., Consulting Biologist (Mammals)   -Carol Olson, M.S., University of Arizona (Entomology)
                -Cecil Schwalbe, Ph.D., University of Arizona (Herpetology)-Linwood Smith, Ph.D., University of Arizona (Birds & Plants)
                -Carl Tomoff, Ph.D., Prescott College (Birds & Plants)  -Bob Scarborough, Consulting Geologist (Geology)

University Credit: Graduate or undergraduate credit is available through the University of Arizona (RNR 497/597B - Desert Ecosystems, 1 unit) for an additional fee of $111 (undergraduate) or $121 (graduate), payable at the Institute (these fees may change).

Since 1970, The Audubon Institute of Desert Ecology has been a means of bringing together 60-65 participants and six expert instructors for field studies of the Sonoran Desert.  The Institute will be held at Catalina State Park, at the base of Santa Catalina Mountains, April 13-16, 2000.  One unit of college credit may be earned during the sessions.

DATES: The Institute begins on Thursday, April 13 at 6:30 am, however, all participants are encourages to arrive on Wednesday, April 12 after 4 pm to register and set up camp.  The Desert Institute fee includes a waiver of park entrance and camping fees for April 12 through 16. The program will end at 2:30 pm on Sunday, April 16.

LOCATION: The site of the Desert Institute is Catalina State Park.  The spectacular northwest face of the Santa Catalina Mountains forms the backdrop for this 5,500 acre desert park located just north of Tucson at elevations ranging form 2,650 to 3,000 feet.  The desert washes, canyons and bajadas contain a vast array of desert plants and wildlife.  The park is a popular birding area and has a bird list of over 150 species that have been seen within its borders.  Our camping area is comfortably shaded by mesquite trees, adjacent to undisturbed desert washes, canyons, hillsides, and rich riparian areas, and secluded from other campgrounds.  Days should be sunny and hot, but expect chilly evenings.

PROGRAM: Our study will focus on Sonoran Desert ecosystems with emphasis on relationships between plant life, animals, and the physical characteristics of the desert rather than classification and identification.  Our days start early and optional activities such as owling, blacklighting for insects and star talks extend into the evening hours.  Participants and faculty interact in small groups during the first three days.  On Sunday morning, a final hike ties together the experiences of earlier sessions for the entire group.

PARTICIPANTS:  Those who attend do not need to be members of the Audobon Society.  They should be at least 18 years old and in good health.  Registration is limited to no more than 65 people.  Faculty members are experienced at teaching students with different knowledge levels; anyone with an interest in natural history and desert ecology can participate.  No pets are allowed.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEALS:  Participants furnish their own tents or campers.  Water is available at the site, but there are no electrical or water hookups.  To avoid disrupting the peaceful surroundings, operation of generators is not permitted at the site.  Solar showers and portable restrooms are provided, and the park has holding tank disposal facilities.  Ample, tasty meals are catered from an on-site unit, with adequate choices to accommodate vegetarians.  Before early field sessions, a nutritious pre-breakfast snack is available.  Contact the director for further information about arrangements.

FEE & REGISTRATION:  The cost of $295 per person includes instruction, camp services, and all meals beginning with breakfast on Thursday morning and ending with lunch on Sunday.  A non-refundable deposit of $45 per person must accompany the registration form.  The balance is due by March 10, 2000.  Please make checks payable to the Institute of Desert Ecology.  No money will be refunded for cancellations received after April 1, 2000, unless we can fill the vacancy from the waiting list.  A few partial scholarships are available (contact your director for information).  *To avoid disappointment, please register early, since the Institute is often fully enrolled several months in advance.

*We welcome donations for scholarships.  These donations are tax deductible.

IMPORTANT:  Please make departing flight reservations for 4pm or later.
QUESTIONS?  Contact Tucson Audubon Society, Institute of Desert Ecology, 300 E. University Blvd #120, Tucson, AZ 85705
DIRECTOR:  Leona J. Lansing, 520-721-7386, sonoralee@aol.com


Carol Noyes
Administrative Secretary
Maricopa County
Urban Horticulture/Master Gardener programs

602-470-8086  Ext. 308

Have a wonderful day!!

~ U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~ --=====================_27191974==_.ALT-- From Kirotate@aol.com Fri, 10 Dec 1999 17:20:56 -0700 (MST) Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 17:20:56 -0700 (MST) From: Kirotate@aol.com Kirotate@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page My orange tree has blossoms and it is only early December. I'm wondering why, and what to expect next. The oranges that had already set on it seem not to be turning color, yet there are of normal size. Incidentally, the orange tree next to it, is proceding on a normal schedule; I think the trees are 10-12 years old and my guess is they are Arizona sweet oranges. Thank you. From bugman@Ag.Arizona.Edu Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:26:06 -0700 Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:26:06 -0700 From: Carl Olson bugman@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: [AG] ants That's an interesting question. The only time I know of people getting ants is for an ant farm and normally those things have a supplier. I am assuming you want live ants, not dead ones. You might also try Wards Scientific or Carolina Biological Supply for live material. Carl Carl A. Olson Associate Curator Dept. of Entomology http://deadbugs.agforbes.arizona.edu/ University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 85721 FAX (520) 621-1150 Office (520) 621-5925 e-mail bugman@ag.arizona.edu NOTE from Lucy Bradley Carolina Biological Supply, 2700 York Road, Burlington, NC 27215 has an online catalog that contains an Ant Farm with a certificate for ants. However, Arizona Residents must have a certificate from USDA to receive ants. From edythe.jensen@arizonarepublic.com Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:34:35 -0700 Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:34:35 -0700 From: by way of Lucy Bradley edythe.jensen@arizonarepublic.com Subject: [AG] free fertilizer Free organic fertilizer: goat manure; animals fed on alfalfa hay; no bermuda or weeds. Gilbert, Arizona near Warner and Cooper roads. call for directions: 480-899-0534. Thanks! Edythe Jensen From judithcheek@yahoo.com Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:53:31 -0800 (PST) Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 18:53:31 -0800 (PST) From: Marilyn Lehrbach judithcheek@yahoo.com Subject: [AG] Found it! Thank you. I found some brittlebush at Tip Top Nursery on Bell Rd, Glendale. We are from WA. state and desert gardening is very new to us as we come from a wet and less than always sunny climate. Again, thank you. Marilyn L. (judithcheek@yahoo.com) __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products. All in one place. Yahoo! Shopping: http://shopping.yahoo.com From cmcarlton@uswest.net Sat, 11 Dec 1999 08:58:00 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 11 Dec 1999 08:58:00 -0700 (MST) From: cmcarlton@uswest.net cmcarlton@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page If lemons or oranges are picked off the tree a little early, will they ripen? My parents are visiting from Ohio and leaving on 12/14. They want to ake some citrus back with them, but it is not quite ready. Please advise. Thanks. From j.turbenson@att.net Sat, 11 Dec 1999 09:13:44 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 11 Dec 1999 09:13:44 -0700 (MST) From: j.turbenson@att.net j.turbenson@att.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page We moved here this summer from Minnesota. We have a large irrigated lot in Gilbert. I already have a raised bed garden on the property and flower beds. So far, anything I have planted just seems to sit there for awhile and dies. Nothing flourishes but acts like it is poisoned somehow. I have tried tomatos, petunias, herbs, Mums, etc. but nothing seems to want to grow and just withers and dies or stays in the soil without growth. Help. Thanks. From Sunsfan001@aol.com Sat, 11 Dec 1999 11:26:34 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 11 Dec 1999 11:26:34 -0700 (MST) From: Sunsfan001@aol.com Sunsfan001@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I am interested in growing saguaros from seed. eg pre-treatment of seeds? potting medium, soil dampness, germination time, etc. Thnaks, Cheyl From mulness@uswest.net Sat, 11 Dec 1999 14:27:49 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 11 Dec 1999 14:27:49 -0700 (MST) From: mulness@uswest.net mulness@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page Every year I grow a number of tomato and pepper plants. All my plants now seem to have some leaves that are slightly curled and the whole plant does not have healthy green look. They blossom some and have tomatoes and peppers but are not growing to the size they should. We had a few white flies but not amount to my judgement would hurt any.Over the years we have mulched and fertilized so we have a very good soil base. We use a soaker hose watering system so they are watered well. I hope I have given you enough so you can come up with an answer. Thank You, Merv Ulness mulness@uswest.net From eandrcook@hotmail.com Sat, 11 Dec 1999 20:02:19 -0700 (MST) Date: Sat, 11 Dec 1999 20:02:19 -0700 (MST) From: eandrcook@hotmail.com eandrcook@hotmail.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I am a snowbird, here until the end of March. I was wondering if it might be possible to grow tomatoes in large pots on a patio with a southern exposure, that would ripen before I return home. Any information would be appreciated. There is always next year to try something. Thank you for your time. Regards Rhoda From teacher@bmol.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 06:12:18 -0700 (MST) Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 06:12:18 -0700 (MST) From: teacher@bmol.com teacher@bmol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page After a late rain, 99 % of our grape leaves turned purple-grey and were blighted. We can't figure out what caused that damage. We have Flame and Thompson varieties. From helend5@aol.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 13:02:19 -0700 (MST) Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 13:02:19 -0700 (MST) From: helend5@aol.com helend5@aol.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I have 2 questions. 1. I have 2 gardenia plants which look very healthy. They get watered with the lawn, 3 x a day for 5 minutes. However, there are no blooms help. 2. As mentioned above, I have seeded winter rye over and over and have been told to water 3x daily, 5 minutes each time. The lawn is still very blotchy, some parts are very green, others, very yellow. This amount of watering seems to be unhealthy for my other plants within the same sprinkler system, petunias, snap dragaons and pansies. Please help! From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:18:06 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:18:06 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Evergreens for Tucson Area Further to the excellent response you already received on suggested evergreens, I would like to add some information to the recommendation on Aleppo pine trees, particularly since you are looking for low-maintenance landscaping for your parent. In one of our Communicator issues, we discussed troubling trees. Aleppos grow to an IMMENSE size and placement is a key consideration. Next to a house could be an insurance issue, at least you will need the cost of services of an arborist to keep it well trimmed on a regular basis. Avoiding powerlines goes without say. It is a beautiful tree: I live in a neighborhood that is full of them. They remind me of huge billowing thunder clouds in our monsoon season. But I've seen the damage they can cause if poorly situated. Linda Guy Master Gardener earathbun@earthlink.net wrote: > arid_gardener > I would like to add some color and seasonal interest to my father's landscape in Tucson. He has a southern exposure with a drip irrigation system, and "no" evergreen plant material. (He needs very low maintenance plants that don't require excess pruning.) Are there any compact evergreens, or even perennials that might stay evergreen which he could grow? Are there pines, or juniper that are visually interesting (either colorful, or offer a contrasting texture to other deciduous plants) that I could select for him? How does Gold Euonymus grow there, Blue Star Juniper, Gold, or Compressed Juniper? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:37:43 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:37:43 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Utility Line Clearing - Saguaro I know you are frustrated with SRP's having cut your your majestic plant. I forwarded your note to the relevant unit (through my husband who is an SRP employee) to confirm my understanding of the utility's line clearing practices. It is the homeowner's responsibility to keep plant material pruned to a point that is reasonably clear of the lines for obvious safety reasons and power delivery needs. As a homeowner, it would therefore be up to me to engage in the most beneficial horticultural practices for my plants/trees as well as the balanced look of the trees and aesthetics of my yard. If I do not do so, and my trees threatened the lines in some way, the utility is permitted to 'clear the lines'. Although effort is made to use horticulturally correct pruning techniques, only that part of my tree that is in the lines will be cut. Also, SRP would contact me only if they needed access to my property; if they can access my plant material through the alley or other easements or rights of way, they will do so without prior notice, as is their right. The 45 degree angle was a good practice to minimize damage to your saguaro, as noted by a colleague who previously responded. If you have any questions for SRP itself, please contact the Line Clearing Division at 602/236-8888. Linda Guy Master Gardener alan35@goodnet.com wrote: > arid_gardener > Recently, SRP pruned, without my permission or knowledge, my 50+ year old Saguaro Cactus. They cut the top off at about a 45' angle. What harm will this do to the plant? My understanding is that is will allow the moisture stored inside to evaporate, killing the beautiful old plant. Are there any preventive measures that can be taken to preserve this fantastic plant. > > Thanks for any help you can provide. > Alan > WebMaster@TheWall-USA.com > > The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Page > http://thewall-usa.com > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:09:19 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:09:19 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Pruning Brittlebush I have a number of specimens in my xeriscaped front yard and have experimented with the volume pruned, but always take away a sizeable amount (at least a third as my colleague recommended). In a class on desert landscaping which I took at DBG from Ron Dinchak, (also an instructor at MCC) I learned that you can prune most of the way back in April/May and get a lush soft regrowth in the summer with some irrigation. This takes care of the woody stems that can quickly develop. It also leaves me with very reasonably sized, not leggy plants. During the flowering season (which is just beginning in my central Phoenix yard), I dead head the flowering tops monthly, just because I like a cleaner look. It's not necessary, though. Good luck, Linda Guy Master Gardener mr_mike@bigfoot.com wrote: > arid_gardener > The plant commonly known as Brittlebush; > should it be pruned back? If so, when and > how much? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:16:42 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:16:42 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Cat Control (again!) I've got another suggestion for you that I found while perusing my gardening catalogs to creat my Christmas wish list. You might consider experimenting with different predator urines to mark the perimeter of your beds. Our website policy is to recommend several sources, but unfortunately I could only find one in my library: Peaceful Valley Farm Supply's 1999 Main Catalog (p.96) sells urine from fox, coyote and bobcat; collected from domesticated farm-raised animals, too! (Gee, I never considered a bobcat ranch before....) I wouldn't be surprised if other organic farm suppliers carry similar products There's a discussion of which predator works for which WILD garden pests. They do not discuss domestic animal repellant, however. Maybe someone at the company knows more (888-784-1722). Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:26:02 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:26:02 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Lime Harvest Time The UofA published a nice discussion of Citrus Trees in the Home Garden (formerly #8464; I'm not sure of the new #) which suggests that Bearss ripens from July through November, but will carry some fruit all year. Taste testing is the best barometer, but remember, this is a tart lime. If you're interested in the publication send $1 to: Home Horticulture Publications University of Arizona Cooperative Extension 4341 E. Broadway Road Phoenix, AZ 85040 Hope you're enjoying your harvest! Linda Guy Master Gardener LEONARDEM@AOL.COM wrote: > arid_gardener > BEARS LIME TREES > WHAT TIME OF THE YEAR ARE THE FRUIT READY FOR PICKING > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:30:52 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:30:52 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Purchasing Brittlebush This is more commonly available than you might expect. I've seen them at Harpers, Tip Top, Bakers, Desert Winds....now that xeriscaping is taking off (low water use) many nurseries have them. Linda Guy Master Gardener judithcheek@yahoo.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I was recently at the Botanical gardens in Phoenix and saw a plant there i thought was beautiful. It is called Brittlebush (silvery leaves and stems). I checked a few places near where I live but nobody had it. where can I buy Brittlebush? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:37:24 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:37:24 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Tomatos and Peppers in the Winter Your plants would appear to be doing what comes naturally, as these are fundamentally warm season vegetables in our area. I've never tried to keep these two plants through the winter (I'm too preoccupied with my cool season crops and don't want to allot the space!) but I really give high marks to a device called the "wall 'o' water". It's about 2.5 feet high and is a round plastic sleeve that fits around plants. The walls are cylinders into which you put water with the garden hose. This then becomes a hothouse for your plants. I usually plant my "summer" tomatos mid Feb to March using these little greenhouses and always have tomatos late April/May. I don't know why these couldn't work for you during this season, too. You may want to cover the tops on evenings during frost warnings. Good luck. Linda Guy Master Gardener mulness@uswest.net wrote: > arid_gardener > Every year I grow a number of tomato and > pepper plants. All my plants now seem to > have some leaves that are slightly curled > and the whole plant does not have healthy > green look. They blossom some and have tomatoes > and peppers but are not growing to the size > they should. We had a few white flies but not > amount to my judgement would hurt any.Over > the years we have mulched and fertilized so > we have a very good soil base. > We use a soaker hose watering system so they > are watered well. > I hope I have given you enough so you can > come up with an answer. > > Thank You, Merv Ulness > mulness@uswest.net > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:56:42 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 16:56:42 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Frost Protection --------------379BAB3EC9C179C6CD93C039 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit I may not be the best respondent to your question, because I am not the type of gardener who coddles my plants. I try to select material that will do well at the particular time of year and/or area of the yard. Only in the severest of conditions do I trot out the blankets, lights and extension cords. Based on personal experience I have never lost any cold season vegetable (you specifically mention romaine, broccoli and leeks, all of which I grow) to frost. During the coolest months, they simply 'veg out' (sorry I couldn't resist) and resume growth when the sun begins its rise on the horizon. Basil, however, is clearly a warm weather annual. South wall and/or some protection is necessary to nurse the plant through winter to spring. Frost damage is tell tale black leaves. Don't pick themoff in the cooler months, as they will protect the ones underneath from additional frost damage. However, I don't go to this trouble because in the second year the plant becomes woody, loses its taste (and that's why I grow mine, besides the landscape interest) and dies sometime the next summer anyway. I keep my basil as long as I can, but always start with fresh seed or transplants in spring. Likewise with tomatos. I hope this answers your question. Linda Guy Master Gardener Kerr Family wrote: > I know frost tender is a relative term. How cold does it have to be, > and for how long to damage romaine lettuce? Basil? Tomato? > Brocoli? Leeks? I have sucesfully kept tomatos alive, but dormant, up > against the south facing wall of my house. The lows where I live are > often 10 to 12 degrees lower than the official Sky Habor numbers on > the radio. The lowest temperature is usually just before dawn. If > the radio says 45 or less, I check my outside thermometer, and cover > the plants if it less than 38. It is amazing to me how often there > was no frost on the car when I get the paper at 6 AM, but definite > frost when I go to work at 7AM. --------------379BAB3EC9C179C6CD93C039 Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit I may not be the best respondent to your question, because I am not the type of gardener who coddles my plants. I try to select material that will do well at the particular time of year and/or area of the yard. Only in the severest of conditions do I trot out the blankets, lights and extension cords.

Based on personal experience I have never lost any cold season vegetable (you specifically mention romaine, broccoli and leeks, all of which I grow) to frost. During the coolest months, they simply 'veg out' (sorry I couldn't resist) and resume growth when the sun begins its rise on the horizon.

Basil, however, is clearly a warm weather annual. South wall and/or some protection is necessary to nurse the plant through winter to spring. Frost damage is tell tale black leaves. Don't pick themoff  in the cooler months, as they will protect the ones underneath from additional frost damage. However, I don't go to this trouble because in the second year the plant becomes woody, loses its taste (and that's why I grow mine, besides the landscape interest) and dies sometime the next summer anyway. I keep my basil as long as I can, but always start with fresh seed or transplants in spring. Likewise with tomatos.

I hope this answers your question.

Linda Guy
Master Gardener

Kerr Family wrote:

I know frost tender is a relative term.  How cold does it have to be, and for how long to damage romaine lettuce?  Basil?  Tomato?  Brocoli?  Leeks? I have sucesfully kept tomatos alive, but dormant, up against the south facing wall of my house.  The lows where I live are often 10 to 12 degrees lower than the official Sky Habor numbers  on the radio.  The lowest temperature is usually just before dawn.  If the radio says 45 or less, I check my outside thermometer, and cover the plants if it less than 38.  It is amazing to me how often there was no frost on the car when I get the paper at 6 AM, but  definite frost when I go to work at 7AM.
--------------379BAB3EC9C179C6CD93C039-- From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:19:06 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:19:06 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Re: Pruning Brittlebush My apologies, for not "sensing" that you were in need of my information an hour sooner!! Actually, the pruning practice I was referring to was for the late spring; in pruning the bushes now, you have certainly removed the lovely little yellow flowers that will be with us through March. Not to worry, I'm sure you'll receive at least one crop come February..... Again, if you want the flowers, do not prune (except to dead head spent blossoms) at this time. If these are doing heartily as volunteers (another name for weeds, depending on your point of view!) you probably won't need to irrigate them in the summer. In doing so periodically, however, you CAN engage in the practice I mentioned of cropping the bush to about 8" and having it grow back grey/green (the less water, the more white/grey and dry/brittle it will appear) and without the woodiness discussed in the previous answer. As to hills/valleys to perk up the landscape texture, lay out a few garden hoses where you would like a few washes and berms. I suggest washes where tree roots can eventually receive excess runoff collected here. I have one that runs the length of my front yard and waters all my native species trees. Although each tree is on the drip system, I rarely use it because of the wash (of course, I irrigated well the FIRST year to establish and I'm watching rainfall, heat, etc.). Once you've dug your wash(es), just use the dirt to hill and mound in areas that you'd like. Consider those areas where bikes/pedestrians might cross your yard in lieu of the sidewalk (we did this because we are a corner lot), or raise other plant material to block a neighbor's yard (we're not fond of the adjacent 'landscaping' shall we say!). You get the idea. If you need more dirt, the classified ads carry fill.... I will have to leave it to my colleagues to answer your question on soil amendment for cactus. Just remember, not all cactus likes full sun; many need the benefit of the filtered shade so often provided by native trees in the wild. Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener Michael Goldstein wrote: > Thanks for the information. > > Your timing is off by about a nanosecond. I have just come inside from > hacking at the aforementioned (and quite aptly named) shrub. I did chop > off about a third, more or less, during a profanity-laced interlude > exacerbated by the fact that my dogs had decided to eat my two thriving > garlic plants. > > The brittlebush grew quite unexpectedly a couple of years ago in a large > rectangular bald area of my front yard where I have been growing > wildflowers in the spring. I have dreams of turning this patch of dirt > into a desert landscape. If I were to plant cactus, would I need to > install a drip irrigation system for it? Would I need to change the soil > at the spots the cacti were planted? Also, how can I add little hills and > valleys that seem to add interest to a landscape? > > At 04:09 PM 12/12/1999 -0700, you wrote: > >I have a number of specimens in my xeriscaped front yard and have > >experimented with the volume pruned, but always take away a sizeable > >amount (at least a third as my colleague recommended). In a class on > >desert landscaping which I took at DBG from Ron Dinchak, (also an > >instructor at MCC) I learned that you can prune most of the way back in > >April/May and get a lush soft regrowth in the summer with some > >irrigation. This takes care of the woody stems that can quickly develop. > >It also leaves me with very reasonably sized, not leggy plants. > > > >During the flowering season (which is just beginning in my central > >Phoenix yard), I dead head the flowering tops monthly, just because I > >like a cleaner look. It's not necessary, though. > > > >Good luck, > >Linda Guy > >Master Gardener > > > >mr_mike@bigfoot.com wrote: > > > >> arid_gardener > >> The plant commonly known as Brittlebush; > >> should it be pruned back? If so, when and > >> how much? > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> Arid_gardener mailing list > >> Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > >> http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > >> Archives - > > > > From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:21:12 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:21:12 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Wintertime Container Tomatos If the area is well protected, if there is a full day's worth of sun (and block walls around the plants to retain heat during the cold nights) I suspect it might work, although I personally have not had success. March might be too soon to expect ripened fruit. Recognize that here in the low desert, tomatos are grown in the warmer not cooler vegetable season. I just answered a similar question where I recommended a mini-hothouse contraption called a wall'o'water. This is a 2/5 foot sleeve of plastic that is placed around a plant and whose walls are made of cylinders that you fill with water to create the hot house effect. These are fairly big and may be too large for your containers. I'm hoping one of our other container gardening experts has some better advice for you. Linda Guy Master Gardener eandrcook@hotmail.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I am a snowbird, here until the end of March. > I was wondering if it might be possible to grow tomatoes in large pots on a patio with a southern exposure, that would ripen before I return home. Any information would be appreciated. There is always next year to try something. Thank you for your time. Regards Rhoda > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:22:59 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:22:59 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Cat Control (again!) I've got another suggestion for you that I found while perusing my gardening catalogs to creat my Christmas wish list. You might consider experimenting with different predator urines to mark the perimeter of your beds. Our website policy is to recommend several sources, but unfortunately I could only find one in my library: Peaceful Valley Farm Supply's 1999 Main Catalog (p.96) sells urine from fox, coyote and bobcat; collected from domesticated farm-raised animals, too! (Gee, I never considered a bobcat ranch before....) I wouldn't be surprised if other organic farm suppliers carry similar products There's a discussion of which predator works for which WILD garden pests. They do not discuss domestic animal repellant, however. Maybe someone at the company knows more (888-784-1722). Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:23:43 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:23:43 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Is Desert Landscaping Susceptible to Scorpion,Snake Infestation I converted an old bermuda lawn to xeriscaping, with gravel and low water use plants and have had no problems. In all my classes or reading on the topic, I have not heard this raised as an issue once. Indeed, in converting, I noted that other critters like snails, cockroaches, etc. went elsewhere (the neighbors perhaps?) whose yards were still lushly irrigated. One note for you to consider: I live in an old, developed area of central Phoenix. If you live in a new development on the outskirts, where wildlife like snakes and scorpions are being displaced by home and other building, you will likely see these. But it will not, in my opinion, be because of the choice of landscaping. Eventually, as a new neighborhood matures, the wildlife abates. Good luck. Linda Guy Master Gardener foxgray@uswest.net wrote: > arid_gardener > What are the disadvantages to having a desert landscape? We wanted to put rocks in our front yard, but someone told us that it brings scorpions, snakes and things like that. Is that true? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:31:28 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:31:28 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Drip Irriation Specifics Since this is largely dependent on the type of plant material, may I suggest you peruse our Master Gardener Manual, Irrigation Section at http://ag.arizona.edu./pubs/garden/mg/irrigation/index.html Overall, the Master Gardener Manual may also have other information that would be beneficial to your horticultural efforts. If the section in question does not address your specific needs, don't hesitate to send us a detailed question again! Good luck. Linda Guy Master Gardener rknott@inficad.com wrote: > arid_gardener > I have a drip system (2 gal/hr) one setting for plants and one for a flower bed. Is there a watering guideline for how long, and how many days/week that I should water during the different seasons. > > Thank you, > > Ray Knott (Sun Lakes) > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:37:52 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:37:52 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Irrigating Mexican Fan Palms According to our Publication Arizona Landscape Palms (AZ 1021) available online at http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/az1021.pdf established palm trees do well with slow irrigation to 2 feet deep every 2 to 3 weeks in the growing season (same amount every 4 to 6 weeks in winter). Hope this helps. Linda Guy Master Gardener Tpjscarp@aol.com wrote: > arid_gardener > how much water does a mexican fan palm need in gallons per week or month 3 years old? > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From laguy2@primenet.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:51:59 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 17:51:59 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Flower Removal from Gingko The UofA's publication #Q375 Chemical Removal of Flowers on Olive and Mulberry suggest a spray containing napthaleneacetic acid (NAA) or strong streams of water during pollination season. Unfortunately, I do not find a specific reference to ginkos; perhaps your favorite nursery can advise you on this or another chemical. The Sunset Western Garden Guide simply advises not to plant female trees, which advice is too late for you now... If you want a copy of the UofA publication, send $1 to Home Horticulture Publications University of Arizona Cooperative Extension 4341 E. Broadway Road Phoenix, AZ 85040 Good luck! Linda Guy Master Gardener tooldye@earthlink.net wrote: > arid_gardener > I have a beautiful female gingko tree. > Every year it produces more and more stinky > fruits. Is there any way to reduce the amount > of fruit this plant grows and proceeds to drop > on my high traffic sidewalk? I've heard rumors > of a sterilizer for fruit trees, would this > work for the gingko? > Would love some help! > Kim in KC > > _______________________________________________ > Arid_gardener mailing list > Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Sun, 12 Dec 1999 09:05:14 -0700 Date: Sun, 12 Dec 1999 09:05:14 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] tomatoes in pots Winter - 1997-8, I had nice tomatoes in pots. Cool weather slows plant growth and frost can finish it, permanently. Pots tend to be warmer than the soil and can be moved to shelter from winds or frost. I think it is late to be trying but March is 3 months (90 days) away. How bad would it be if you came close but failed? And you would know, next year. On Sat, 11 Dec 1999 20:02:19 -0700 (MST) eandrcook@hotmail.com writes: >arid_gardener >I am a snowbird, here until the end of March. >I was wondering if it might be possible to grow tomatoes in large pots >on a patio with a southern exposure, that would ripen before I return >home. Any information would be appreciated. There is always next >year to try something. Thank you for your time. Regards Rhoda > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Mon, 13 Dec 1999 07:20:53 -0700 Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 07:20:53 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Grapes It is time for grape leaves to fall off the plant for their dormant season. After this happens is a great time to prune and, or try to propagate them. If you want to try cuttings, make sure the part closest to the plant is in the soil with the other end pointed up. As I cut these, I make the bottom straight and the tops slanted at a sharp angle. Grapes make wonderful cooling shade! quickly. Do put the cuttings where you want them to grow because they make lots of roots the first year and are a nuisance to transplant if you didn't put them in 5 gallon pots. I have Thompson, Ruby and Flame, all seedless. To help grapes go dormant near Phoenix, I stopped watering mine about the first of November..... They do look pretty bad until the leaves drop. On Sun, 12 Dec 1999 06:12:18 -0700 (MST) teacher@bmol.com writes: >arid_gardener >After a late rain, 99 % of our grape leaves turned purple-grey and >were blighted. We can't figure out what caused that damage. We have >Flame and Thompson varieties. > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From dgkazmer@juno.com Mon, 13 Dec 1999 07:14:38 -0700 Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 07:14:38 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Evergreens for Tucson Area Before planting my Aleppo and Bottlebrush, I talked to my neighbor and she thought they would be nice in the place I later planted them (18 feet south of her house and 9 feet north of mine and about 20 feet between them)................... they were five gallon size. A year later she came complaining that the two trees that had been discussed before planting were going to shade her solar heater, 30 feet north and quite a bit east of the trees, on the back of her house. I immediately stoped watering both the Aleppo pine and Bottlebrush. I expected them to die. It is now 4 years later. In the middle of the summer I collect roof valley water and put most of it on the Aleppo. The tree has grown very little and looks fragile but lives on. The bottle brush is about 6 feet tall and blooms. In the low desert, more than anywhere else in our country, size is a reflection of water. I would never chose this Aleppo for a Christmas tree but it is amazing how well this little tree has done with so little water. Neither tree has an irrigation nozzle within 25 feet of them. There are no gutters on my house so they get a little extra rain from the part of my hippish roof aimed in their direction, a triangular area, perhaps 8 feet deep by 25 feet long. Now my home is near Phoenix and Tucson is cooler and wetter than Phoenix. It is very bad to water only one little area of a tree root ball (roots will grow in that area and perhaps not at all on the other side of the tree, making it very susceptible to blowing over if the wind comes from that area where there are no roots.) On Sun, 12 Dec 1999 15:18:06 -0700 "Linda A. Guy" writes: >arid_gardener >Further to the excellent response you already received on suggested >evergreens, I would like to add some information to the recommendation >on Aleppo pine trees, particularly since you are looking for >low-maintenance landscaping for your parent. In one of our >Communicator issues, we discussed troubling trees. Aleppos grow to an >IMMENSE size and placement is a key consideration. Next to a house >could be an insurance issue, at least you will need the cost of >services of an arborist to keep it well trimmed on a regular basis. >Avoiding powerlines goes without say. > >It is a beautiful tree: I live in a neighborhood that is full of them. >They remind me of huge billowing thunder clouds in our monsoon season. >But I've seen the damage they can cause if poorly situated. > >Linda Guy >Master Gardener > >earathbun@earthlink.net wrote: > >> arid_gardener >> I would like to add some color and seasonal interest to my father's >landscape in Tucson. He has a southern exposure with a drip irrigation >system, and "no" evergreen plant material. (He needs very low >maintenance plants that don't require excess pruning.) Are there any >compact evergreens, or even perennials that might stay evergreen which >he could grow? Are there pines, or juniper that are visually >interesting (either colorful, or offer a contrasting texture to other >deciduous plants) that I could select for him? How does Gold Euonymus >grow there, Blue Star Juniper, Gold, or Compressed Juniper? >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Arid_gardener mailing list >> Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >> http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >> Archives - > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From azpiper@earthlink.net Mon, 13 Dec 1999 16:08:27 -0700 Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 16:08:27 -0700 From: azpiper@earthlink.net azpiper@earthlink.net Subject: [AG] unscribe Hi. Please delete my name from your list. Thanks. From Beverlyfz@aol.com Mon, 13 Dec 1999 18:35:14 EST Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 18:35:14 EST From: Beverlyfz@aol.com Beverlyfz@aol.com Subject: [AG] White Flies in Greenhouse My lovely new greenhouse is finally safe from the squirrels but I have a horrid infestation of white flies that love the balmy weather. Please advise how to get rid of them and also do you suppose they have laid next years eggs all over the place too? It is never going to get cold in there. I don't want to use bud spray - I have lovely tomatoes ripening along with cauliflower. Thx. From efountain@access1.net Mon, 13 Dec 1999 10:53:20 -0700 (MST) Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 10:53:20 -0700 (MST) From: efountain@access1.net efountain@access1.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page We are in the planning stages for building a new home in the Tucson Mountains on near Sweetwater and Camino de Oeste. The builder will put in plumbing connections for a soft water system inside the house. I asked him about separate plumbing for the outside hose bibs and he said that potassium softened water doesn't hurt plants, and that you can water with it. I think he is wrong, and that you should not use softened water for watering plants, either indoors or outdoors. Can you confirm? Thanks, Ellen Fountain From RodMcQ6@aol.com Mon, 13 Dec 1999 22:16:32 EST Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999 22:16:32 EST From: RodMcQ6@aol.com RodMcQ6@aol.com Subject: [AG] Using softened water for irrigation Ellen, You are correct. You must have a bypass around the water softener for irrigation. The salt in the softened water will make short life of most landscape plants. Good luck. Rod From laguy2@primenet.com Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:00:48 -0700 Date: Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:00:48 -0700 From: Linda A. Guy laguy2@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Re: Pruning Brittlebush The 'brittleness' of your brittlebush is a function of water: I believe you indicated that these were not being irrigated in any way other than rain fall. Mine are on a system, hence the blooming and leaf color that is green with a greyish cast, vs yours which are probably approaching white/grey with little green. Simply the plants' respective reactions to environment. The real reason for this response, however, is to share with you the Desert Botanical Garden Hotline [480-941-1255], available M-F on a limited basis, I believe from 10 to 11:30 am. They will surely be able to answer your questions about amending soil for cactus since this is a particular area of expertise for them. Linda Guy Master Gardener Michael Goldstein wrote: > I am surprised that your brittlebush is blooming now. Mine is showing no > signs at all of new growth or flowering. It is just, well, brittle. My > arms are scratched like I've tried to give an alley cat a bath. I think > I'll try your method. Thanks for the help. > > At 05:19 PM 12/12/1999 -0700, you wrote: > >My apologies, for not "sensing" that you were in need of my information an > >hour sooner!! Actually, the pruning practice I was referring to was for the > >late spring; in pruning the bushes now, you have certainly removed the lovely > >little yellow flowers that will be with us through March. Not to worry, I'm > >sure you'll receive at least one crop come February..... Again, if you want > >the flowers, do not prune (except to dead head spent blossoms) at this time. > > > >If these are doing heartily as volunteers (another name for weeds, depending > >on your point of view!) you probably won't need to irrigate them in the > >summer. In doing so periodically, however, you CAN engage in the practice I > >mentioned of cropping the bush to about 8" and having it grow back grey/green > >(the less water, the more white/grey and dry/brittle it will appear) and > >without the woodiness discussed in the previous answer. > > > >As to hills/valleys to perk up the landscape texture, lay out a few garden > >hoses where you would like a few washes and berms. I suggest washes where > tree > >roots can eventually receive excess runoff collected here. I have one that > >runs the length of my front yard and waters all my native species trees. > >Although each tree is on the drip system, I rarely use it because of the wash > >(of course, I irrigated well the FIRST year to establish and I'm watching > >rainfall, heat, etc.). Once you've dug your wash(es), just use the dirt to > >hill and mound in areas that you'd like. Consider those areas where > >bikes/pedestrians might cross your yard in lieu of the sidewalk (we did this > >because we are a corner lot), or raise other plant material to block a > >neighbor's yard (we're not fond of the adjacent 'landscaping' shall we say!). > >You get the idea. If you need more dirt, the classified ads carry fill.... > > > >I will have to leave it to my colleagues to answer your question on soil > >amendment for cactus. Just remember, not all cactus likes full sun; many need > >the benefit of the filtered shade so often provided by native trees in the > >wild. > > > >Good luck! > >Linda Guy > >Master Gardener > > > > > > > >Michael Goldstein wrote: > > > >> Thanks for the information. > >> > >> Your timing is off by about a nanosecond. I have just come inside from > >> hacking at the aforementioned (and quite aptly named) shrub. I did chop > >> off about a third, more or less, during a profanity-laced interlude > >> exacerbated by the fact that my dogs had decided to eat my two thriving > >> garlic plants. > >> > >> The brittlebush grew quite unexpectedly a couple of years ago in a large > >> rectangular bald area of my front yard where I have been growing > >> wildflowers in the spring. I have dreams of turning this patch of dirt > >> into a desert landscape. If I were to plant cactus, would I need to > >> install a drip irrigation system for it? Would I need to change the soil > >> at the spots the cacti were planted? Also, how can I add little hills and > >> valleys that seem to add interest to a landscape? > >> > >> At 04:09 PM 12/12/1999 -0700, you wrote: > >> >I have a number of specimens in my xeriscaped front yard and have > >> >experimented with the volume pruned, but always take away a sizeable > >> >amount (at least a third as my colleague recommended). In a class on > >> >desert landscaping which I took at DBG from Ron Dinchak, (also an > >> >instructor at MCC) I learned that you can prune most of the way back in > >> >April/May and get a lush soft regrowth in the summer with some > >> >irrigation. This takes care of the woody stems that can quickly develop. > >> >It also leaves me with very reasonably sized, not leggy plants. > >> > > >> >During the flowering season (which is just beginning in my central > >> >Phoenix yard), I dead head the flowering tops monthly, just because I > >> >like a cleaner look. It's not necessary, though. > >> > > >> >Good luck, > >> >Linda Guy > >> >Master Gardener > >> > > >> >mr_mike@bigfoot.com wrote: > >> > > >> >> arid_gardener > >> >> The plant commonly known as Brittlebush; > >> >> should it be pruned back? If so, when and > >> >> how much? > >> >> > >> >> _______________________________________________ > >> >> Arid_gardener mailing list > >> >> Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu > >> >> http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener > >> >> Archives - > >> > > >> > > > > > > Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. > Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read. - Groucho Marx From dgkazmer@juno.com Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:05:41 -0700 Date: Tue, 14 Dec 1999 07:05:41 -0700 From: Dawn G Kazmer dgkazmer@juno.com Subject: [AG] Softened water The water goes into my home in the front next to an exterior water outlet. This water outlet, in the front is before the water entry to the home. The entry on the exterior back wall is after entry to my home. I know this because when I turn off the valve on the pipe below the front faucet, everything except that front faucet has no water. The irrigation system is also connected before entry into the home. Your plumber wants to avoid the expense and work of 2 pipe lines under your home........ and perhaps you would too. You can install a cheaper plastic pipeline around the perimeter of your home and enjoy having unsoftened water for your plants. It is my opinion that our soil has enough salts already without adding various other chemicals. And the cost of softening water is dear in addition to thinking about the environmental danger. On Mon, 13 Dec 1999 10:53:20 -0700 (MST) efountain@access1.net writes: >arid_gardener >We are in the planning stages for building a new home in the Tucson >Mountains on near Sweetwater and Camino de Oeste. The builder will put >in plumbing connections for a soft water system inside the house. I >asked him about separate plumbing for the outside hose bibs and he >said that potassium softened water doesn't hurt plants, and that you >can water with it. I think he is wrong, and that you should not use >softened water for watering plants, either indoors or outdoors. >Can you confirm? >Thanks, >Ellen Fountain > > > >_______________________________________________ >Arid_gardener mailing list >Arid_gardener@Ag.Arizona.Edu >http://Ag.Arizona.Edu/mailman/listinfo/arid_gardener >Archives - From gaye.luna@nau.edu Tue, 14 Dec 1999 14:10:29 -0700 (MST) Date: Tue, 14 Dec 1999 14:10:29 -0700 (MST) From: gaye.luna@nau.edu gaye.luna@nau.edu Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I live in Surprise and am new to desert vegetation. I am wondering how long (times/week) and how much (minutes) I should water the following yard scrubbery during the winter months: (1) Evergreen Elms (5 years old) (2) Lantana (5 years old) (3) Bankor Red Bouganvilla (planted 1 1/2 months ago) (4) Rose bushes (5 years old) They are all on the same drip system, unfortunately, so would need some advice on times and length to accommodate all these plants. Thank you, From ppiercy@primenet.com Tue, 14 Dec 1999 14:14:12 -0700 (MST) Date: Tue, 14 Dec 1999 14:14:12 -0700 (MST) From: ppiercy@primenet.com ppiercy@primenet.com Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page I am looking for a list of flowers and vegtables that grow in the Phoenix area. The types of things I am looking for: ex. What type of pumpkins, squash, etc that grow here. Thank you. From jimsimpsoncpa@uswest.net Wed, 15 Dec 1999 08:44:01 -0700 (MST) Date: Wed, 15 Dec 1999 08:44:01 -0700 (MST) From: jimsimpsoncpa@uswest.net jimsimpsoncpa@uswest.net Subject: [AG] Question from Home-Hort WWW page After a light frost, what is the best method to rcover a vegetable garden? E.G., water immediately to melt light frost, wait for the sun to warm, space heater? Thx, Jim From cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Wed, 15 Dec 1999 10:10:50 -0700 Date: Wed, 15 Dec 1999 10:10:50 -0700 From: Carol Noyes cnoyes@Ag.Arizona.Edu Subject: [AG] Free Lemon Booklets --=====================_7014357==_.ALT Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Arizona Grown has a booklet available this month titled "150 Ways to Use Lemons" from Sunkist. Callers will also receive this month's list of fruits and vegetables being harvested in Arizona. Call: 888-PICKED-4-U (888-742-5334). Carol Noyes Administrative Secretary Maricopa County Urban Horticulture/Master Gardener programs 602-470-8086 Ext. 308 Have a wonderful day!! ~ U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~U of A ~ --=====================_7014357==_.ALT Content-Type: text/html; charset="us-ascii" Arizona Grown has a booklet available this