Aspidistras need fair share of shade

Q: I have two large variegated aspidistras. This year they look dreadful. They get quite a bit of sun. Is there anything I can do to make them happier? — Jean Langway, Atlanta

A: In my experience, aspidistra (also known as cast iron plant) needs partial to full shade. Otherwise the leaves become brown and tattered. You can cut off damage with scissors as it appears. However, the clumps are easy to move, so I recommend you put them in a better shade environment. Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer such as Osmocote, Dynamite or Milorganite.

Q: I’m unable to have a backyard garden due to all the wildlife. This year I want to grow vegetables on my deck. However, the site gets extremely hot in the afternoon/evening sun. Do you have suggestions on how to make this garden work? — Tammy Williams, Walton County

A: Heat won’t hurt vegetable leaves as long as they are supported off the hot deck surface. But heat can certainly hurt roots in dark-colored pots exposed to the sun. Plant roots may shut down at soil temperatures above 80 degrees. Consider wrapping pots in aluminum foil or painting them white to reflect the sun. If your pots are smaller than 14 inches wide, you could put each into an 18-inch pot and fill the space between with packing peanuts or plastic bubble wrap.

Q: I have 20 Leyland cypresses, 12 feet tall. When do I fertilize and what do I use? — Craig Winfrey

A: The first question to ask is if the Leylands actually need fertilizing. Do you want them to grow much over 12 feet tall? If not, they can thrive without yearly fertilization, especially if you mulch an area four feet on all sides so roots can spread out and anchor the plants from wind damage. If you want to increase growth, use any landscape fertilizer three times per year: spring, early summer and fall.

Q: The soil in the huge pots on my patio has dried out completely. The soil doesn’t seem to retain water. What can I do? — Doree Loesch, San Ramon, Calif.

A: Empty the soil from the pots into a big plastic bag. For every cubic foot of soil, add a quart of water that has been mixed with a teaspoon of dish detergent. Seal the bag, then mix and mash the soil inside. Leave it in the sun for a day and then refill the big pots. The water and detergent will wet the soil and make it less hydrophobic in the future.

Listen to Walter Reeves on Saturday mornings on NewsTalk 750 WSB-AM from 6 to 10. Go to Gardening Georgia for details on his TV show or visit his Web site, Walter Reeves.