Q: How do I get a green thumb so my plants grow better? Jacqueline Daley, Atlanta
A: Nobody is born with a green thumb. Instead, it’s something you build over time. Even if you’re totally new to plant care, you can still develop a talent for gardening. First, plant for success. If you can be successful with just a few plants, you’ll be encouraged to build on that success in the future. Cosmos, celosia, daylily and marigolds, radishes, lettuces, onions or beans are great for busy beginners. Starting from seed is always exciting, but purchasing seedlings is the way to go in a beginning garden. The best way to become a great gardener is to pay attention and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Notice how your individual plants indicate that they need water. What sorts of insects are in your garden, when, and what are they doing there? You’ll find that most are harmless or even beneficial. What happens if you prune a plant? Experiment in your garden and note the results. You’ll be amazed at how green that thumb of yours becomes with a little trial and error! If you’re stumped, ask gardening friends, neighbors, or an employee at your local gardening store. Don’t give up! The color of your thumb doesn’t matter when your hands are digging in the soil!
Q: Years ago, I had a Shademaster locust tree, but I had to have it removed. I would now like to get another one but all I can find is a Shademaster honey locust. What happened to just the Shademaster locust? Why are they now called honey locust? Mike Schoonover, email
A: ‘Shademaster’ is a honey locust. I am confident that the tree you planted years ago was a honey locust. The label would have had Gleditsia triacanthos ‘Shademaster’ on it. On the other hand, a properly labeled locust tree would have read Robinia pseudoacacia.
Q: I just read Ball Ground was changed to Hardiness Zone 8A. Can you verify? I would like to plant a lilac tree this spring. Debbie Johns Storey, Ball Ground
A: The new USDA Hardiness map didn’t change your backyard weather; it just noted that the climate in a big swath of the country near you had gotten warmer. There will still be a chance of sudden cold snaps that are the death of lilacs. If you want to plant a lilac that smells great and takes the cold, try one that I’ve had good success with like ‘Angel White’ or ‘Lavender Lady.’ See bit.ly/GAlilac.
Email Walter at georgiagardener@yahoo.com. Listen to his occasional garden comments on “Green and Growing with Ashley Frasca” Saturday mornings on 95.5 WSB. Visit his website, walterreeves.com, or join his Facebook page at bit.ly/georgiagardener for his latest tips.
