Q: We have five goldenrain trees across the front of our yard. They have beautiful seed pods but they are so light they blow all over, dropping seed as they go, and the seeds sprout in our flower beds. -- Gene Wallace, Lawrenceville
A: I can think of several plants with beautiful flowers or seed (Rose of Sharon, northern sea oats, morning-glory, etc.) that, like goldenrain tree, are overly enthusiastic about spreading their good looks. Try to gather all the pods you can find and put them in the garbage. Some seed inevitably will escape, but they are so big that lawn pre-emergents don't control them. To control unwanted seedlings that sprout, make a "herbicide dabber." Stuff a sponge tightly into a four-foot piece of three-quarter inch PVC pipe, leaving an inch of the sponge sticking out. Pour in a quarter-cup of properly diluted glyphosate (Roundup, etc.) and cap the end with a wine cork. When you see goldenrain tree seedlings pop up, bring out your tool and dab them with plant killer.
Q: Our landscape designer wants to put a hedge of Formosa azaleas in our backyard. Will they withstand our cold? -- Barb Walker, email
A: There does seem to be a winter warming trend for Atlanta and environs. But just because it is warmer overall, that doesn't mean we can't have short periods of bitter cold. I see Formosa azaleas growing in Atlanta that have done well for decades. If the site isn’t totally exposed to blasting winter wind, I'd go ahead with them. If the shrubs grow a good root system in the next few years, they will sprout back if we do get a murderous freeze.
Q: You say on your website that Nellie Stevens holly needs a close-at-hand Edward Stevens pollinator for more fruit. How many feet away does Edward have to be from all my Nellies? -- Ron Wright, northern New Jersey
A: Since hollies are pollinated by insects, "within flying distance" is the correct answer. Closer together is better but you'll have plenty of berries if all plants are in a typical landscape.
Q: Can stone pine thrive in east Cobb County? Do any nurseries in this area sell them? -- Fran Weinstein, Roswell
A: Stone pine, Pinus pinea, has been an important source of food for humans and animals for thousands of years. It grows widely in the Mediterranean. My guess is that it might survive here in a protected location, but winter will be a challenge for it. Piccadilly Farm, near Athens (706-769-6516), is a great source of conifers, hellebores and other companion plants. Call them and ask for advice.
Q: Can I propagate liriope from the fruit it produces? -- Michael Wallace, email
A: Propagating liriope from seed is slow but it can be done. Soak the berries in warm water overnight, then rub them in your hands to expel the seeds inside. Pour off the skins and debris and allow the seed to dry on a paper towel. Fill a shallow container (its size depending on how many seed you have) with good quality potting soil that is moist but not soggy. Place the seed an inch apart and cover with a half-inch of soil. Spray water on the soil surface until it is slightly soggy. Cover the container with kitchen plastic so it does not dry out. Place it on top of your refrigerator (or another warm indoor spot) for six weeks. Germination should occur by that time; you’ll have around 60 percent success.
Listen to Walter Reeves Saturday mornings on AM 750 and 95.5 FM News-Talk WSB. Visit his website, www.walterreeves.com, or join his Facebook Fan Page at xrl.us/wrfacebook for more garden tips.
