Q: I have a tulip magnolia that’s gotten too big. Can I cut it back to about five feet tall like I do with my crape myrtle? Mike Bailey, email
A: Tulip magnolia blooms on branch tips produced the previous year. That means that if you prune the tree down to five feet, you’ll likely remove all of the buds for next spring’s flowers. Since most tulip magnolias are tree-form plants, even if you waited to prune until after blooming they will spend a lot of energy next year growing vertical branches, which don’t produce many flowers. If you like the plant, I recommend you remove it completely and plant another one in a place where it can grow to maturity. There are several good new varieties, including ‘Jane’, Black Tulip, and ‘Lennei’.
Q: I’ve been composting for ten years. I’ve tolerated tiny spiders, worms, and bugs of other types without a problem. However, last week when I went out to turn the pile there were giant flying roaches in it! I don’t ever want to turn it again but I don’t want to waste my compost. Whatever you suggest I’m sure my husband will be glad to do it for me. Carol Sanford, email
A: Why do you expect that only small organisms help with composting? Why can’t bigger, six-legged creatures help too? You’re providing a smorgasbord for them! I think roaches are a natural part of the composting process. That said, I see no reason why your brave husband couldn’t buy some of the “large roach” bait stations and put them under small waterproof shelters near the compost bin. The unwanted insects would get an excellent meal, which would also be their last. Their unseen carcasses will make your compost richer!
Q: My neighbor has earthstar fungus pushing up her driveway asphalt. Is there any to get rid of it? Donald Burger, email
A: Like other mushrooms, earthstar fungi are saprophytic. This means they decompose organic matter in the soil using long thread-like strands. When conditions are right the strands form a mushroom that extends upward to disperse spores. Woodland mushrooms are a common example. Earthstar mushrooms are distinctively shaped, resembling an egg with petals that unfurl outwards. The ones under your neighbor’s drive will continue to occur as long as tree roots or other woody material remains under the driveway. When they are decomposed, I’d expect the earthstars to disappear.
Q: I am into natural landscaping and the “enviro-realignment” of my acreage but I need more in-depth horticultural training. I’ve heard that the University of Georgia provides low-cost courses for retired people. David Eakin, Hoschton
A: Yes, the University System of Georgia provides special admission for people 62 years of age or older. They are eligible to register for classes on a space available basis without payment of tuition and mandatory fees, except for supplies or laboratory/class fees. Gwinnett Tech has an excellent horticulture program that is less expensive than the one at the University of Georgia. Local colleges even offer HOPE grants to seniors. If you like online learning, the UGA Center for Continuing Education continuously offers a class taught by Dr. Allan Armitage on “Perennials for Sun.”
