Question:
Why did some of my rose shoots not bud or flower? The stems don't look any different from those that did flower.Answer:
- The vegetative rose shoots that don't bud up and open are called 'Blind Shoot.' Blind Shoots are more common than you would think, but they get overlooked with all the flowering shoots. It's a big problem for commercial cut flower growers because of the ecumenic impact and not so in home gardens.
- Various factors, such as weather conditions, growing in shady conditions, over or under watering. nutrient deficiencies, or none or all of the above, cause.
- Blind shoots are usually no more than three to five inches long, have thinner stems, and have fewer leaves, which typically have a lower chlorophyll content than leaves on stems that form flowers.
- If there is an abundance of them, it could indicate an underlying issue with the health or vigor of your plant. Also, you may find a string of aborted shoots rising from the same stem, so prune the stem off.
- The best time to remove the flowers is deadheading or removing the spent flowers after each flowering period. This is an excellent time to control the size of your bushes by reducing the height and bringing in sides. You don't have to wait until winter to prune.
- The one 'Do Not' is to remove all the leaves from the canes as the leaves act as an umbrella. They protect the green stems from sunburn. You should expect the next flush of flowers in August.
Question:
I need clarification about using leaves as mulch in my garden. Although it's universally recommended to put leaves in the compost pile, some say you should leave them laying around shrubs, perennials, etc. Others say to remove them from the garden because they can harbor pests. Pests can also hide in compost, can't they?Answer:
- Both answers are correct depending on your taste and preference.
- Using natural plant debris is critical during the summer months for moisture conservation. The most usual pest, I'd see are Sowbugs, which feed on decaying organic matter. Sowbugs are not a threat to ornamentals; only herbaceous plants and those edibles that touch the ground, such as strawberries, melons, and pumpkins.
- The cost of water has put water conservation at the forefront of my mind during the nonrainy season. A two-inch layer of mulch is the recommended solution. Plant debris is an inexpensive resource.
- I'm fortunate to have several Coast Redwood and California Live Oaks that I use as mulch. The spiny oak leaves have a secondary benefit: no snails; however, I'm cultivating the acorn and germinating seedling oaks.
- Before applying fresh mulch, I rake the area around the trunks of trees and shrubs to prevent the organic matter from matting down around the crowns. In time, this causes many problems.