Shrubs and trees need lots of TLC

— The effects of our hot summer are evident in many landscape plants, including dogwoods, azaleas and Japanese maples. Leaf scorch usually occurs on the edge of the foliage and can progress down the leaf. These understory plants that have been planted in full sun get some leaf damage annually, and when it was as hot and dry as it was this summer, the problem is compounded.

There is nothing you can do once scorch occurs, but continue to water as needed. You may consider moving smaller plants this fall or winter to a more amenable location with some afternoon shade.

Now that it’s cooler, many people have cut back on or quit watering, but rainfall has not been plentiful. Don’t give up yet. Flower buds are set on spring-flowering shrubs andtrees, and if they get too dry, it affects how well they will flower.

Many large shade trees started shutting down early and have been dropping leaves. If you have stoppedwatering, or didn’t water all summer, some of your trees and shrubs may be dead. But don’t assume they are. Wait until spring and assess how well they leaf out before major pruning - or replacement.

Avoid pruning springflowering plants now or you eliminate spring blooms.

Weather is variable now. Don’t be alarmed if you see scattered blooms on tulip magnolias, azaleas or other spring-flowering plants. The buds are set and if the temperature fluctuates, some buds will be tricked into thinking spring has sprung. You can’t force flowers back into their buds, so simply enjoy them.

Fall is an ideal time to plant - especially trees. The soil has residual warmth, and we hope we will get more rainfallin coming months. Trees will be going dormant, no longer needing the resources to support leaves and active growth; instead, they can establish roots. This ensures a tougher tree next spring.

Note that the dormant season is the time between a killing frost and when plants begin leafing out. In Arkansas, that is normally between November and February, but pushing the edges of October and March. If you need to move plants from one location to another, do so while they’re dormant. If the plant is reliably winter hardy, do so now. If it can struggle with cold weather, leave it intact until late winter or early spring. Regardless of whether it’s a new shrub or newly transplanted, don’t forget to water when dry.

HomeStyle, Pages 44 on 10/23/2010

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