Pruning Your Orchid PlantsWritten by Robert Roy
Pruning Your OrchidThe flowers have all died and when should you cut stalk back and how far? Pruning an orchid stalk (spike) should cause no harm to plant. However, some orchids will produce new bloom shoots from nodes on old blossom stalk, or some plants will produce small baby plants (pups) from these nodes. The new plants may be removed and potted after they develop roots. Of course, some orchids do neither of these things. In either case, it doesn't hurt plant if you remove old bloom stalk; you may just miss some new blossoms or a baby plant.
| | Caring for a Living Christmas TreeWritten by Sherri Allen
The Christmas season brings with it many decisions to be made. Among them is, "What type of Christmas tree should I put up?" This year, consider a living Christmas tree. Not only will you enjoy it through holidays, but a living tree can be planted in garden to enhance your landscape and spark wonderful memories for years to come.To allow your living tree to thrive in your garden, you must provide it with a small amount of special care. The following tips from National Christmas Tree Association will help ensure your living tree's success: • The adaptability of species should be considered. Many species are shipped outside of their natural area and may not be adaptable to other areas. Check with a reliable nursery or extension forester. • Keep in mind that living trees are VERY heavy and bulky. A six foot tall balled and burlapped tree will weigh as much as 250 pounds. • Protect tree from elements. The tree should be stored in an unheated, sheltered area such as a garage or porch, out of wind and sun. Do not expose tree to freezing temperatures at any time. • The tree will need adequate water. The root ball or soil should be kept slightly damp but not flooded. Wrap root ball of a balled tree in plastic or place in a tub while it is in house.
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