Landscape Tree and Shrub Maintenance and Care
September 3, 2008 12:00 AM by JRay
Autumn is a great time to plant most trees and shrubs. In Wisconsin, this can be done well into the season---as long as the ground is workable. Customers are often surprised that at Johnson’s Nursery, we plant right up until the ground is frozen, and still guarantee most plants for one year. Almost 50 years of experience in the industry has taught us the benefits of fall planting: the season’s cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall mean less stress on the plant, mild weather keeps soil warm enough to encourage vigorous root development, and the plant has two seasons to adjust to its new home before summer bears down upon it next year. There are several things to keep in mind when planting trees and shrubs in fall. Consistent soil moisture is essential to plant health, especially at this time of year. This allows plants to build nutrient stores which will nourish them throughout the long winter. Inadequate water, a dry autumn and a harsh winter may result in plant damage or death...more
April 18, 2008 11:43 AM by JRay
Early spring is the perfect time to prune most ornamental shrubs in southeastern Wisconsin. Pruning allows one to remove old or diseased branches and those that are crossing or rubbing, and enhances the natural form of the plant. It may also enhance flower, fruit, or colored stem display, and increases overall plant vigor. Ideally, woody shrubs should be pruned while they are still dormant, just before growth begins in spring. Flowering ornamentals that bloom on new growth such as Spirea, Potentilla, Smooth Hydrangea (such as ‘Annabelle’)and Panicle Hydrangea can be cut back severely in late winter or early spring, nearly to the ground. Keep in mind that pruning Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora (or PG Hydrangea)too late in spring will reduce floral display. Euonymus (burning bush), red or yellow twig Dogwood, and Kerria can be pruned at this time by cutting up to one-third of the oldest canes (or stems) to the ground. This encourages new shoot development at the base of the plant,...more
December 17, 2007 12:55 PM by JRay
Most gardeners I know truly appreciate the outdoors. It seems only natural that the care we take with our plants extends beyond our landscape, into our communities, forests, prairies and wetlands. We are not alone. According to a 2006 survey conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the environment has become an issue of concern for many Americans. More than ¾ of respondents felt that some action must be taken now to protect our natural resources. Issues such as climate change, water pollution, and pesticide contamination seem to be receiving more media attention than ever before. Recycling, switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs, and turning down your thermostat are all ways to help reduce your “carbon footprint”. But have you ever stopped to think that the way you maintain your yard and garden can also have an impact? Take your lawn, for example. Conventional landscapes rely on huge expanses of turfgrass as a key design element. Lawns require a great deal...more
December 4, 2007 8:16 AM by JRay
Small trees can make a huge difference in the landscape. These are trees suitable for most urban residential settings or small city lots, most reaching an ultimate height under 30 feet. Some varieties are known for their lovely spring flowers or distinctive form, while others show consistently nice fall color, fruits, or winter interest. Perhaps you have an older home in the city, and need a tree that won’t interfere with overhead power lines. Possibly you’ve just built a smaller home on a narrow lot. Whatever your needs, budget, or style there is a small tree that will work for you. When choosing a small tree for your landscape, there are several things worth considering. First, measure the width and length of the area you have to work with. Even small residential trees need room to spread, both above and below ground. Plan for the size of the tree at maturity rather than its size at the time of purchase. If you are planting near paved areas or patios, allow a minimum of 8-10...more
October 18, 2007 11:35 AM by JRay
Specimen evergreens (or conifers) can add contrast, texture, and year-round interest to your landscape. They can be used in mixed plantings with perennials and deciduous shrubs, as a focal point, to attract and shelter birds, or planted in seasonal containers. Evergreens provide the garden with structure and color even in the dead of winter, which is essential in our cold and snowy climate. They offer maximum landscape interest with a minimum of maintenance for the homeowner. Conifers vary greatly in size. Miniature varieties typically add less than one inch of growth per year, while large evergreens may grow as much as a foot or more annually. Climate and soil conditions are additional factors that contribute to growth rate. Choosing the size and variety that is best suited to your yard will help make the most of your landscape and encourages healthy, attractive plants. It is important to consider placement of your evergreen based on its ultimate size.I’m sure you can think of a...more
August 27, 2007 4:20 PM by JRay
As August begins with 90+ temperatures, it becomes essential to monitor soil moisture more closely than we might otherwise. Even the most experienced gardeners have brought home a new plant in late spring, only to watch it wither and die once the really hot weather kicks in. In addition, water is a costly resource for most homeowners. If you are planting wisely and watering efficiently, you will save time, money, and preserve the beauty and vigor of your plants. Here are some suggestions for keeping your garden moist, your plants healthy, and your wallet full during the hottest days of summer. First, make sure you are selecting and siting plants appropriate for the amount of light they require. Plants that require full sun typically need 6 hours of sun or more per day. Part sun or part shade plants usually require 3-6 hours of sun, preferably in the morning. Generally if a plant is listed as part sun, the emphasis should be on providing sun, with some light shade relief in the...more
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About Jackie Ray
Jackie Ray is one of the retail horticulturists at Johnson’s Nursery. Jackie is currently working to complete a degree in Landscape Design and Nursery Management. Jackie will be writing an ongoing blog about caring for your ornamental trees and shrubs.
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