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Boxwood shrubs are a classic, beautiful choice for home landscapes — but they’re under threat from a serious fungal disease called boxwood blight. First identified in Virginia in 2011, this disease spreads quickly and can cause defoliation and plant decline. If you have boxwood in your yard, here’s a simple guide to help you identify …
Introduction Understanding plant nutrition is key to fostering robust growth and productivity. Whether you’re a gardener, farmer, or plant enthusiast, recognizing the essential nutrients plants need and how they obtain them can significantly enhance plant health. This article explores the vital macronutrients and micronutrients necessary for plant development, their sources, and strategies to maintain a …
Soil is the foundation of any garden. It provides essential nutrients, water, and support for plants. Healthy soil is teeming with microorganisms that help break down organic matter, making nutrients available to plants. Key aspects of soil health include: Soil Structure: Good soil structure allows for proper air and water movement, which is vital for …
Rhus Mature Size: up to 25 feet tall, with short trunks and spreading branches. The Native Sumac Shrub is found primarily in dry sandy or rocky forests, edges, and clearings. The shrub and small tree were found by an invasive Callery Pear tree not far from the nearby Cannery building. Leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, 12-24 …
Prunus serotina Mature Size:60 to 100 feet in height, and 1 to 4 feet in diameter The Black Cherry trees located here were uncovered after the Chinese Privet was removed along the perimeter of the Sweet Gum tree. This tree grows on many sites that are not very wet or dry. Leaves are alternate, simple …
Cercis canadensis Mature size: 15 to 30 feet in height and 6 to 10 inches in diameter The Eastern Redbud is a small deciduous ornamental tree that can tolerate full sun or part shade and moderately fertile clay or sandy soil. Regular watering and fertilization as needed will keep the plant healthy. It may be …
Oxydendrum arboretum L Mature size: 30 to 40 feet in height and 8 to 12 inches in diameter The Sourwood is uniquely formed, often with a leaning trunk and crooked branches. The leaves are alternate, simple, 4 to 7 inches long, shiny green above and paler below, with finely toothed edges. Bark on very young …
Hamamelis virgiana L. Mature size: is considered a large shrub or small tree to 20 feet tall, often forming clumps The Witch Hazel is an understory of mainly moist upland forests. Its leaves are alternate, simple, 3 to 6 inches long, broadly oval, and with an uneven base. The flowers are bright yellow, with four …
Albidum Mature size: 20 to 40 feet in height and 1 to one and a half in diameter The Sassafras is a small tree with a twisted trunk and flat-topped crown, often forming thickets. Its natural habitat is the open woods and abandoned fields, especially on moist sandy loam soils. Its leaves are alternate, simple, …
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