Q: What's wrong with my poplar tree? I noticed numerous black bugs and brown dead spots covering my leaves. -- Carl Terry, e-mail
A: It's damage from the poplar weevil, a small "snout beetle" that feeds on poplar and sassafras leaves. The population varies greatly from year to year. It has been 10 years since I noticed a heavy infestation. Since poplar trees are so big, there is little you can do to control this weevil. Fortunately, natural predators and weather manage it effectively. Your tree won't be permanently damaged.
Q: Should I be worried if I see "daddy long legs" spiders on my flowers? -- Debbie Wells, e-mail
A: No, the daddy longlegs are harmless. Also known as harvestmen, these creatures are not spiders, though the body form is similar. They do not have venom or weave webs. They eat small earthworms, organic soil particles and bird droppings.
Q: I purchased a Pacifica chrysanthemum two years ago. It has become my favorite ground cover, and in fall, the daisylike yellow flowers are thrilling. How do I propagate it to other parts of my garden? Chuck Singer, e-mail
A: I think you're referring to Chrysanthemum pacificum, and it is indeed a great plant. Propagation is easy. Take a 4-inch tip cutting and insert the lower half into potting soil that is a bit on the soggy side. Cover with an upturned clear jar and place in a shady spot. The cutting will have roots in two weeks and can be transplanted into your garden in four weeks.
Q: I had a lot of cannas in my front yard. This year they have not sprouted at all. Could the cold have killed them? -- Donna Shafer, Cobb County
A: Yes, cold damage has been a major problem on marginally hardy plants we typically leave in the ground each winter. I've had reports that banana, dahlia, ginger and elephant ear, in addition to canna, have not sprouted this spring.
Q: I've been told that I have made a mistake with my cucumbers and watermelon planted near each other. "They" have said that I can look forward to strange-shaped watermelons and funny-tasting cucumbers. Is this true? -- Hank Holliman, e-mail
A: "They" are wrong. This year's fruit will be of normal shape and taste. Only if you plant the seed saved from this year's fruit will the offspring be odd next summer.
Q: I am a greenhorn gardener with a quick question about mulch. Is it OK to use wheat straw in my vegetable garden? -- Ben Ross, e-mail
A: Wheat straw is an excellent mulch. I use it myself to attract harmless spiders because they are so effective at controlling garden pests. Spread the straw under vegetable plants and in the space between rows to give shelter to your eight-legged garden friends.
Listen to Walter Reeves from 6 to 10 Saturday mornings on NewsTalk 750 WSB-AM. Go to www.yoursoutherngarden.com for details on his TV show or visit his Web site, www.walterreeves.com.
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