Bare wood tells tales, sneaks past us
enlarge this imageIf it catches your eye when branches are bare and you aren't sure if it's normal or trouble, snap its picture and show it around.
Green thumbs up
To a good look at bare limbs before the green returns in spring.
It's time to admire beautiful lines, mark problem branches for
pruning and, sometimes, take note of irregularities.
Many times, it's a springtime observation of lumps or odd colors
that gives us the jump on trouble later. Cherry branches infected
with black knot (pictured at
right) can be pruned out, tent caterpillar egg masses knocked off,
and mysteries photographed for showing at
the Extension or posting on a Forum.
Green thumbs down
To letting knowledge get you down. Some people would rather not
learn about plant problems because, "Then that's all I see!" Yet
we've studied trouble for 30 years and have only increased our
respect for plants through continual confirmation that a well grown
plant can dodge any bullet.
Solving Mysteries
Take advantage of digital technology plus the collective wisdom
in your gardening community. Take pictures of what you see. Post
them where they'll be seen, and someone will recognize them or have
a clue.
Our Forum is a
good place to display mysteries. It has plenty of
experienced eyes and sharing souls -- our Members and Moderators.
Internet search can be a powerful detective, too. Try our
four-step approach to solve your next unknown.