QUESTION OF THE WEEK
How can we protect fruit tree blooms when a freeze hits us again?
Answer:
Since it’s still several weeks before we hit our last average frost date, it’s a good idea to be prepared to protect the flowers that will provide this summer’s fruit. The main thing we can do is to cover the whole tree (if it’s not too large) with a tarp or even a big piece of plastic. Normally we don’t put plastic on plants because it can burn the edges. But in this case, that may be necessary in order to save our fruit crop. If you can put any kind of heat underneath—like light bulbs or a mechanic’s light—that will help a lot.
Caution: Do not wrap the tree up like a lollipop. Spread the cover over it all the way to the ground and secure it, so that heat can rise from the ground up.
Spraying water on the tree is not recommended. Although you can get some protection by continuing to spray water (as if you want to stand outside all night doing that!), you can end up building a large ice load that can shatter the tree or bush. In addition, when the water is turned off, super-cooling actually occurs. Then when the water is turned off super cooling actually occurs.
If you have a variety that insists on blooming too early every year, it may be a better idea to replace it with one that’s better geared to the weather in your area. Contact your local Extension Office for a list that’s right for you.
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PLANT OF THE WEEK
Bulbine (Bulbine frutescens)
 A member of the lily family, it resembles aloe, and is just as easy to divide.
Most of the year it adds a spiky, succulent texture to offset other plants in full sun or light shade. But in spring through fall, it adds yellow or orange highlights with its flowers on tall spikes.
The yellow variety blooms first, and most heavily in spring. The orange form continues to bloom until frost. Plant in drifts or clumps for the most immediate impact. But if you can only buy one or two, it doesn’t take long for them to spread, or you can easily divide them.
Bulbine likes well-drained soil and a little moisture, but it also takes heavier soil and neglect. In summer, if you don’t water it at all, it turns brown or purple and looks like it’s going to die. When rain comes, it just bounces back.
A very good no-care plant that adapts to many sites and container plantings, as well.
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PLANTING TIPS OF THE WEEK
- Continue pruning.
- Fertilize roses and shrubs.
- Apply dormant oil to protect susceptible plants from insects and disease: but not within 24 hours of a freeze.
- Divide any fall perennials you missed.
- Weed, weed, weed!
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THIS WEEK'S FEATURE
Jeff Rodgers has turf tips to start and maintain a healthy lawn.
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