Crabapple Tree Information

Flowering  crabapple tree

The crabapple is admired for its beautiful spring flowers and also for its late summer fruit. In spring the bloom buds will appear in the shade of reddish-purple and when the buds open the flowers are either white or pink.  

 Crabapple flowers bloom from April to May and the flowers last on the tree for approximately two weeks.  These spring flowers will attract orioles and warblers, the birds feed off the nectar. 

In late summer the tree will produce a small apple that is approximately two inches.  This apple is edible however the fresh fruit has a sour taste.  Many people make jelly from the fruit or they leave the fruit on the tree as forage for birds and wildlife.  

Buying Tips for Healthy Tree

Buy a crabapple tree at your local nursery.  Ask the salesperson if the burlap is natural or if it has a wax coating. If the burlap is natural it is best to plant the tree in the covering however if there is a wax coating it is better to purchase a tree grown in a container.

Planting Tips

Remove the tree from the container and wet the roots. By wetting the roots, you may loosen some of the roots from the root ball. If the roots are stubborn, use your hands untangle the roots.

Gently pull them away from the root ball. If the tree is wrapped in burlap, gently remove the bottom half of the burlap so that the roots are exposed.

Plant the crabapple tree in early spring as soon as you can break ground or in the fall six weeks before a hard frost. 

Grow the tree in a site that has full sun, good airflow and well-drained soil that has a slight alkaline of 6.0 to 8.0.  

Dig a hole that is the same depth as the container and twice the width of the root ball. The hole needs to be wide enough so that the roots are not crowded. Place the root ball in the center of the hole, gently position the roots to grow outward. Add some compost and work the soil around the roots. Fill the hole with the remaining soil and water around the base of the tree. 

Known Disease 

Watch the leaves and fruit for black spots this is a symptom of applescap.  Also look for the symptoms of fire blight.  The branches and leaves will turn black if they are infected with fire blight and this disease if not treated will eventually kill the tree.  

Cedar-apple-rust is very noticeable as there are orange-red spots on the leaves.  Powdery Mildew is more prevalent when there is not enough air circulation or high humidly. 

Check the leaves, flowers and fruit for the white powder fungus.

Care for Crabapple Tree

1. Care for your tree by keeping the soil evenly moist for the first two years. Water the tree daily with drip irrigation.  The moisture in the soil will encourage a deep rooting.
2. Apply four inches of organic mulch around your tree. 
3. Feed your tree in the spring with a fertilizer formulated for flowering trees.
4. Plant your tree  in the late afternoon when the sun is not intense or plant on a cloudy day.

Transplant Tree or Shrub (How to)

Planting a tree or shrub is not difficult however purchasing a healthy tree or shrub may be a little tricky. Many trees and shrubs sold are root balls wrapped in wax-coated burlap. If purchasing from a nursery ask to check the root ball.

Look for a healthy root that is growing outward. If the root ball is tightly matted then it better to purchase a tree or shrub grown in a container. Before purchasing the tree or shrub, check the bottom of the container, if roots are growing out of the drain holes this is a good indication of a strong root. Another way to determine a healthy tree or shrub is to look for a full tree or bush with new growth.

Redbud tree newly planted

Planting Tips

Set the container on its side and gently roll the container on the ground. This method will loosen the root ball from inside the container.

Remove the tree or shrub from the container. Thoroughly wet the root ball prior to planting. By wetting the soil, you may loosen some of the roots from the root ball. If the roots are stubborn and are growing in a tight circle, use your hands to untangle the roots. Gently pull them away from the root ball. This is a necessary step to enable the roots to grow outward into the soil. 

Clear the planting site by removing all of the grass. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the container. Add six inches of compost to the bottom of the hole. Mound the compost into the center of the hole. Set the tree or shrub on top of the mound. Spread the roots out so that they will grow outward into the soil. Fill the hole with the remaining soil and water thoroughly.

Apply two to four inches of mulch around the tree or shrub trunk. The mulch will add nutrients to the soil, retain moisture, and will prevent weeds. Water your tree or shrub daily in the morning before the heat of the day.  The soil should be evenly moist but not wet.

Notes From Susan:   Plant your tree or shrub in the late afternoon when the sun is not intense or plant on a cloudy day.

 

Zinnia Flowers for Sun Gardens

Zinnia flowers are the perfect choice for sun gardens as these flowers like it hot and will brighten your yard and garden from summer to fall. 

Every year I shop online at parkseeds.com and will buy seeds in bulk if they are avaialbe.  I grow zinnia flowers in the masses because they remind me of growing up and picking the flowers from my Dad's garden.

Zinnia flowers have a long bloom time and  they are a maintenance free flower that provides repeat blooms that brightens my gardens. 

As a kid I recall seeing the zinnias growing along the side of our chain link fence and they did flourish.  There was some afternoon part shade that prevented them from baking in the 100+ temperatures.   

I like the way the zinnias look when they are grown as a border along a fence but I have a wood fence and need to grow the zinnia  two to three feet away from the wood fence to make sure flowers get adequate air flow. 

One way to plant zinnias is to plant them in a garden with purple coneflowers or scarlet red bee balm.  The purple and red are eye appealing contrast colors that will accent your zinnia flowers.

Another way to grow zinnias is to plant them in containers.  As long as you meet zinnias growing requirements; full sun, hot weather, well drained soil, and watered in the morning at the soil level with drip irrigation then you can grow zinnias easily from seed.

Image credit by Vallian

Planting zinnias by growing the flower seed indoors on a sunny windowsill or under a grow light. When the zinnia seedlings are three inches in height, and the danger of spring frosts has passed then transplant them outside.

Grow  Zinnia CALIFORNIA GIANT Flower From Seed

Caring for Zinnias

Apply one inch of mulch around the stem to help aid in moisture control and to deter weeds.  
Care for zinnias by watering them in the morning with drip irrigation as it is not wise to get water on the leaves.  
Plant zinnias in an area where there is good air flow. Zinnias are susceptible to powdery mildew.

Learn more about growing zinnia flowers from seed by viewing this YouTube.com garden tips video:

Lavender Growing Tips and Uses

ENGLISH LAVENDER  GROW FROM SEED

 

Growing lavender is easy, and the benefit of its beauty and fragrance will return every season. Lavender is a perfect plant for those hot sunny locations in your yard where nothing else will grow. I grow lavender directly outside of my dog kennel and along the gravel path that leads to my patio. I also planted lavender in containers; wheelbarrow, vintage footed bathtub and also in a wooden barrel.

I grow English lavender because it is a fragrant and pretty flower.  The plant features dense branches that will grow to the heights of three feet and the leaves are long and narrow. 

Lavender Usage

Lavender herb is a natural way to repel stray cats and mosquitoes from your yard and garden, you can also plant aromatic lavender close to your dog kennel.  I like to dry the lavender and use it in floral arrangement during the fall and winter months.  It looks nice in harvest wreaths and also sensational when you tie a bunch of lavender flowers with silver or gold ribbon and then decorate a Victorian Christmas tree. 

You can also make a bar of lavender soap, here's how:

Another way to benefit from the lavender herb is to mix it with rose petals for an aromatic potpourri or make heavenly scented sachets for your drawers.  There are many benefits for growing lavender, why not plant some seeds for windowsill garden or outdoors in container or yard.

Create a cozy spot in your garden by growing Lavender

Growing Tips for Lavender Herb:

1. Grow lavender in a sunny location that has sandy soil that is well drained.  
2. Lavender prefers a location where the soil is dry.  If the root receives too much moisture it will rot.  
3. Start the lavender seeds indoors 8 to 12 weeks prior to the last spring frost.  The best way to achieve this is to plant the seeds in starter kits. 
4. Grow lavender indoors in a windowsill herb garden.  
5. Set the container garden next to a window that has a southern exposure or you can grow lavender under an artificial grow light.  It takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks for the lavender seed to germinate.  
6. When plants are four to six inches in height transplant them outdoors after the threat of spring frost has passed.

Tips:

Lavender is a flowering herb from the mint family.  The lavender flowers produce nectar and thus honey bees, butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the lavender blooms.

Introduction photo by Heron/ Wikipedia Creative Commons 

How to Conserve Water in Your Yard and Garden During Extreme Summer Heat

When summer temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s, keeping your lawn, flowers, and vegetable gardens hydrated becomes a challenge. Watering twice a day may keep your plants alive, but it can also send your water bill into the danger zone. Instead of cutting back and risking plant loss, you can use smart water‑saving techniques that keep your garden healthy while reducing waste.

My summer garden during a heat wave — beautiful, but thirsty.

🔥 Why Water Conservation Matters in Summer

Where I live, summer heat is brutal. Many days reach over 100°F, and without careful watering, even established plants struggle. But watering heavily twice a day isn’t sustainable especially during drought conditions. The key is to water smarter, not more.

💧 Use Drip Irrigation for Efficient Watering

A few years ago, I installed a dripline watering system, and it has been the single best improvement for conserving water in my yard. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the soil line exactly where the roots need it instead of losing moisture to evaporation.

I set my dripline on a timer from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM. Watering early allows moisture to reach the roots before the sun heats the soil. This simple change reduced my watering from twice a day to once, saving both water and energy.

🌦️ Collect Rainwater in Spring

Conserving water starts long before summer arrives. In spring, I collect rainwater using several barrels placed under my gutter downspouts. When one barrel fills, I switch to another. Rainwater is excellent for watering flowers, vegetables, and container plants and it’s free.

🌱 Smart Watering Tip for Lawns

Water your grass only when it truly needs it. Here’s a simple test: Step on the lawn  if the grass stays flat when you lift your foot, it’s time to water. Always water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.

🎥 Additional Water‑Saving Tips

Here is a helpful YouTube video with more ideas for conserving water in your yard and garden:

🌿 Final Thoughts

With a few simple adjustments drip irrigation, rainwater collection, early‑morning watering, and mindful lawn care you can keep your garden thriving even during extreme heat. These methods protect your plants, reduce waste, and help you manage your water bill during the hottest months of the year.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This article reflects my personal gardening experience in Missouri’s extreme summer heat. Your climate and soil conditions may differ, so always adjust watering practices to your local environment.

How to Divide and Transplant Bearded Irises for Bigger Blooms

Bearded irises are one of the most rewarding perennials to grow, but they do require periodic dividing to stay healthy and productive. Over time, iris clumps become crowded, leading to fewer blooms, smaller flowers, and increased risk of borers and disease. With more than 500 bearded irises growing in my half‑acre gardens, I divide mine every 3–4 years to keep them vigorous and blooming beautifully.

🌼 Why Irises Need Dividing

When irises grow too tightly together, the rhizomes compete for nutrients and sunlight. Crowded irises often produce small blooms — or no blooms at all — and the dense foliage creates the perfect environment for pests like iris borers. Dividing the clumps restores airflow, improves plant health, and encourages strong flowering the following spring.

Best Time to Divide

Divide your bearded irises between July and August. This warm‑season window allows the rhizomes to re‑establish before winter frost.

🌿 Irises Growing in My Garden

All of the irises shown in these photos are grown in my own gardens. Readers love seeing real garden examples, and these images show exactly what healthy iris clumps look like before and during division.

🌱 Signs Your Irises Need Dividing

• Small blooms or no blooms
• Rhizomes growing on top of each other
• Soft spots or signs of borer damage
• Clumps spreading beyond their original planting area

If your irises are planted too close together, they may need dividing within a year. Otherwise, plan to divide every 3–4 years for best performance.

✂️ How to Divide Bearded Irises

1. Prepare the Iris Bed

Before digging, trim the iris leaves to one‑third of their height. This reduces stress on the plant and makes handling easier.

2. Lift the Iris Clump

Use a spade or pitchfork to gently lift the entire clump from the soil. Try not to break the roots. Shake off excess soil, then rinse the rhizomes with a garden hose. Washing the roots makes it easier to inspect for pests or disease.

3. Inspect for Borers or Rot

Look for soft spots, mushy areas, or wormholes all signs of iris borer damage. This often occurs when irises are overcrowded or when leaf debris accumulates in the bed.

4. Treat Minor Damage

If the damage is small, cut away the affected area with a sharp knife. Soak the rhizomes in a 10% bleach solution for 30 minutes, then allow them to air‑dry in the shade. Plant treated rhizomes in a separate garden so you can monitor them for further issues.

5. Divide Healthy Rhizomes

Cut young, firm rhizomes away from the main clump. Each division should have healthy roots and at least one fan of leaves.

🌸 How to Transplant Bearded Irises

Prepare the Garden Bed

Remove weeds, leaves, and debris from the iris bed. Irises grow best in full sun with well‑drained soil enriched with compost or aged manure.

Spacing

Plant each division at least 12 inches apart to allow room for growth and airflow.

Planting Depth

Set the rhizome on the soil surface, spread out the roots, and cover the roots with soil. Leave the top of the rhizome exposed planting too deeply can cause rot and prevent blooming.

Watering

Water the newly transplanted irises well. They prefer deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering.

🌼 Irises From My Garden

Here are some of the bearded irises growing in my yard all of which will be divided and transplanted this year to keep them healthy and blooming.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Bearded irises are easy to grow and incredibly rewarding. With regular dividing, proper spacing, and good garden hygiene, your irises will reward you with beautiful blooms year after year. Maintaining your iris beds ensures strong plants, healthy rhizomes, and vibrant spring flowers.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: All irises shown and discussed in this article are grown in my personal gardens. Due to their spreading capabilities, I currently grow approximately 500 bearded irises across my half‑acre property. This guide reflects my personal gardening experience and regional growing conditions.

How to Spot Early Signs of Spring in Your Garden

Every gardener looks forward to that first hint of spring — when the snow begins to melt and the sun feels just a little warmer. Nature always gives clues that winter is ending. By learning to recognize these signs, you can prepare your garden for the growing season ahead.

🌿 Observing Nature’s Signals

When the temperature rises above freezing and the snow starts to recede, look closely at your garden beds. Under patches of melted snow, you may notice the grass‑like foliage of crocus pushing up through the soil. These hardy bulbs are among the first to awaken, often before the ground has fully thawed.

Grass‑like foliage of crocus emerging through melting snow

🌸 Snowdrops: The First Blooms of the Season

Snowdrops (Galanthus) are often the earliest flowers to bloom. Their delicate white blossoms appear while patches of snow still linger, a sure sign that spring is near. If you spot snowdrops in bloom, you can expect other bulbs  crocus, tulips, and daffodils  to follow soon.

Snowdrop blooms in very early spring

🌼 How to Look for Early Spring Growth

Inspect your yard by gently pushing back mulch or snow from your flower beds. Look for emerging bulbs such as tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. You can also check spring‑flowering shrubs like forsythia and lilacs  tiny bumps on their branches are leaf buds, a clear sign that your area will have an early spring.

Tips for Spotting Spring’s Arrival

• Check sunny spots first they warm faster and encourage early growth.
• Look for bulb foliage poking through mulch or snow.
• Observe shrubs for swelling buds or new green tips.
• Notice changes in bird activity robins and cardinals often appear early.

🌷 Early Blooms in My Garden

In my yard, the crocus are blooming and the daffodils are growing strong. Leaf buds have appeared on my spring‑flowering hedges, and I expect the garden to be in full bloom by late February or early March. Nature always knows when it’s time  the flowers will push through ice and snow to greet the sun.

Crocus blooming in early spring garden

Spring tulips emerging through soil

🌱 Final Thoughts

The first signs of spring remind us that nature’s rhythm is steady and dependable. Even after the coldest winter, life returns. Take time to observe your garden closely  those tiny buds and shoots are the promise of a new growing season.