Q: Do you recommend that we...
Q: Do you recommend that we have our trees pruned every year during the winter? We haven’t been doing so, but if we thought it would be beneficial, we would. -- T.B., Encino A: Deciduous trees--those that drop their leaves in the fall--should be pruned annually during the dormant season to improve tree structure and increase flower and fruit yield. After several years of neglect, though, trees should not undergo a single, heavy pruning because they can be thrown into shock. In the case of deciduous fruit trees, too-severe pruning often results in rank, succulent growth--and even less fruit than if no trimming had been done. When pruning, be sure that the bark does not tear or strip off below cuts. Large branches should always be stub cut: The initial cut is made halfway through on the lower side of the limb, well beyond where the final cut is to be made. A second cut is made from the top downward, about two inches farther out, severing the limb. Finally, the stub is removed, almost flush with the trunk or larger limb, so that no bark or wood is left from the part that has been cut off.
Q: What causes small round spots on the flower petals of an azalea plant? After these spots appear, the entire flower becomes soft and soggy. --E.V., Flintridge A: Azalea flower blight is a fairly common disease that produces the symptoms you describe. The deteriorating, gooey flowers also usually stick to the plant’s leaves or stems. Like many fall and winter diseases, azalea flower blight occurs during cool, rainy periods when moisture is able to collect on the flowers. To best control the blight, remove and destroy all diseased blossoms. If the blight recurs continually, treat the soil around the base of the plant with PCNB. You can also spray the individual blossoms with the fungicide Zineb.
