Are the white-barked birches a good choice for home landscapes in Iowa?

Unfortunately, the white-barked birches, such as paper birch (Betula papyrifera) and European white birch (Betula pendula), are not well adapted to our climate and usually succumb to the bronze birch borer. The river birch (Betula nigra) is a better choice for Iowa. Well adapted to stream banks and other moist sites, river birch develops a papery bark that peels away to expose a cinnamon-brown to reddish-brown inner bark. River birches exhibit tremendous variation in bark color, but the cultivar ‘Heritage’ consistently produces white to salmon-white bark on young wood, darkening to salmon-brown as the tree ages.

How can I accelerate the decomposition of leaves in my compost pile?

Leaves contain high levels of carbon and small amounts of nitrogen. The microbes that decompose leaves and other types of organic matter require nitrogen for their own metabolism and growth. A compost pile composed mainly of leaves decomposes slowly because the leaves don’t contain adequate levels of nitrogen for the microbes.

To promote decomposition, mix leaves with grass clippings or other materials high in nitrogen. If possible, shred the leaves prior to composting. The smaller the size of the material, the faster the rate of decomposition.

Construct the compost pile in layers. Each 6- to 8-inch layer of plant material should be topped with 1 inch of soil or compost. A small amount of an all-purpose garden fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can also be added to supply nitrogen to the microbes. Continue to build the compost pile in layers until it is 3 to 5 feet high.

Finally, water the pile regularly and turn it about once every two weeks.

How do I get rid of moles in my yard?

Trapping is the best way to get rid of moles. Trapping isn't easy, but it does work. Persistence is required. Traps can usually be found in hardware stores and garden centers. When using traps, carefully follow label directions.

Attempts to kill moles with poisoned baits are usually unsuccessful as moles feed primarily on earthworms, insect larvae, millipedes, and centipedes and rarely eat baits. Depriving the moles of their food supply isn’t a viable option either. White grubs (insect larvae) can be controlled with insecticides. However, eliminating the earthworms is not practical. (Insecticides do not control earthworms.)

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