Tim Johnson – Page 44

Sunny or shady? Sandy or clay soil? Know specifics of your garden before picking plants.

May 23, 2019 at 9:01 a.m.

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

May 23, 2019 at 9:01 a.m.

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

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

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

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

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?

May 23, 2019 at 9:01 a.m.

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

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

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,...

What’s the easiest way to grow orchids?

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

I was inspired to try growing orchids after visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Orchid Show. Could you please provide some advice on an easy orchid that I could try growing?...

Gardening often involves lifting and bending, so learning and using proper lifting techniques are important. Even when picking up small items, you can injure your back by bending over improperly.

Protect your back from injury by using proper technique in garden

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

I have had some back problems in the past but want to do more gardening this year. Do you have some suggestions on how to proceed? — Barbara Stafford, Evanston...

After removing dead tree from garden, can that wood be used in fireplace?

May 31, 2019 at 2:58 p.m.

I have a couple of large trees (oak and white ash) to remove in my garden this year and was wondering if I can use the wood for an indoor...

Propagating a Norfolk Island pine is tricky. Here’s how to try it.

May 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.

I have a Norfolk Island pine that is starting to get too big for its space in my house. All the lower branches have fallen off too. It was a...

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