Prune, fertilize, provide enough sun: Care strategies for tropical hibiscus
What should I do to improve the growth of the ornamental hibiscus tree that I purchased a couple of years ago? I have been keeping it inside over winter and...
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Gardeners, beware: In Chicago, Scots pine trees aren’t guaranteed long lives
My 25-year-old Scots pines are not looking good this spring and have lots of brown branches. What might be wrong, and is there anything that I can do to improve...
Growing azaleas and rhododendrons is tricky. Choosing the right cultivar can help.
I have always wanted to grow some rhododendrons in my garden, but many of my friends have discouraged me from trying because of how hard they are to grow. Can...
Expert advice to ace container gardening this summer
I need some advice on the best practices to use for gardening with containers. I want to add some color to my patio this summer. — Debbie Johnson, Woodstock Start...
Sunny or shady? Sandy or clay soil? Know specifics of your garden before picking plants.
I am finding it very hard to decide which plants to purchase for my garden in Evanston, which has both sunny and shady areas. Could you provide some advice to...
Pick garden containers that fit your taste and space — but ensure they drain properly
I would like to do some container gardening on my patio this year and would like some advice on what kinds of containers to purchase. — Jenn Brody, Elk Grove...
Lack of chlorophyll may be culprit behind tree’s yellow leaves
We have a river birch tree in our yard that I planted 26 years ago into a berm area. It was a “balled” tree that I planted in the ground;...
It’s not too early to plant trees, shrubs and perennials, but do these things first
Is it too early to start planting trees and shrubs? I would like to get an early start on garden improvements this year. — Monica Jackson, Grayslake It is OK...
Why are my evergreens turning brown?
I noticed that a section of my boxwood hedge and some other evergreen shrubs are turning brown. This seems to have happened over the last couple of weeks. Some shrubs...
When forcing cut branches to flower, here’s how long it takes to see blooms
I have been pruning in my garden and wonder if I can bring in some branches and get them to flower. If so, how should I proceed? — Calli Jackson,...