What are the advantages and disadvantages of dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees?
Dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees are produced by grafting or budding the desired variety onto a dwarfing rootstock. Most standard-size fruit trees eventually get 25 to 30 feet tall. Dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees are much smaller. Fruit trees grown on dwarfing rootstocks typically grow 10 to 15 feet tall.
Dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees are easier to maintain (prune, spray, harvest, etc.), fit better into small home landscapes, and produce fruit sooner after planting than standard-size trees. However, some dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees have poor root anchorage, so they may need to be supported with a stake or trellis.
How can I determine if my houseplant has spider mites?
Spider mites are tiny (about 1/50 inch long when mature). As a result, they are difficult to see with the naked eye. A convenient detection technique is to hold a sheet of white paper under a stem and then shake or tap the stem against the paper. The mites, if present, will show up as tiny, slow-moving specks on the paper. Examination of an infested plant may reveal very fine webbing produced by the mites. Also, check the plant for symptoms of mite feeding. In light infestations, plant foliage will appear to be speckled with tiny tan spots. Heavy mite infestations can turn the foliage to greenish yellow and eventually tan or brown. Heavily infested plants often drop their leaves.
How often should I fertilize houseplants?
Houseplants should be fertilized when actively growing (early spring to early fall). Use a complete fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Houseplant fertilizers are available in liquid, crystalline, granular, spike, and tablet forms. Frequency of fertilizer application depends upon the product and varies from every two weeks to once every three to four months. Carefully read and follow label directions.
Do not fertilize houseplants during the winter months. Most houseplants are not actively growing in winter and don’t need fertilizer.
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