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Imagine growing a houseplant that not only takes care of itself, but also cares for the health of you and your family. This describes the airplane plant (Chlorophytum comosum), also called spider plant. This South African native made NASA’s list of plants that help reduce indoor air pollution, specifically for its ability to remove formaldehyde from the air. The lilylike leaves and easy-care nature of the airplane plant make it a favorite houseplant, although it can be safely grown outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. To top it off, airplane plants reproduce prolifically, with…
A sturdy, nearly indestructible plant, Hindu rope plant (Hoya carnosa “Argentea Picta”) is at its best planted in containers where the plump, curled, contorted leaves hang over the sides of the pot. A cold-tender perennial most often grown as a houseplant, Hindu rope plant grows outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b through 11. Propagate Hindu rope plant by taking leaf cuttings between spring and midsummer.
Planting bare root raspberries gives you really nice foliage and really delicious fruit throughout the season. Plant bare root raspberries with help from the owner of Eden Condensed, a small space garden design in Los Angeles, California, in this free video clip.
It seems as if there are as many ways to plant a bare root rose as there are rose experts. Rosarians have a number of concoctions they suggest putting in the planting hole, and many of these contain bone meal to provide phosphorous for the plant’s growing roots. Considering that roses have done just fine for millions of years without human intervention, it’s safe to say a bare-root rose generally doesn’t require bone meal at planting. There is an exception, however, and if your soil requires phosphorous, an alternative to bone meal exists.
Shade-loving periwinkles (Vinca minor) brighten up spots where it may otherwise be difficult to garden. They thrive under trees, on steep hillsides and even in beds with much taller plants. These ground cover plants are easy to grow since they are not very picky about their homes. Gardeners often purchase bare root periwinkles to get more bang for their buck. The plants are dormant, which allows some flexibility in terms of planting. Because bare roots tend to be small, they are much easier to place in spots where a large hole cannot be dug.
Trees serve many purposes in the home landscape, such as ornamentation, wildlife attraction, shade and wind breaks. The western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) serves several of these functions. A small deciduous tree or shrub, it adds a pop of color to the yard in spring while attracting hummingbirds with its bright pinkish-purple flowers An easy tree to grow, it tolerates most soil types and pH levels, from alkaline to slightly acid. The best time to transplant the western redbud bare root plant is the fall.
Although they are perennials, geraniums cannot tolerate extended winter frost. Gardeners must treat them as summer annuals or dig up them up and store the dormant plants in a protected indoor area each winter. Bare-root storage sends the geraniums into a state of dormancy. During this period, the plants don't require sun or fertilizer, but the roots might need water occasionally if they get too dry. Transplanting the geraniums to a pot properly in spring ensures they are ready to bloom at the onset of summer.
Semi-dwarf apple trees reach a smaller height at maturity than standard apple trees. Semi-dwarf fruit trees often come in bare root form, requiring you to transplant them quickly into the landscape. You can also plant the bare root trees in containers, to provide a healthy environment until your site is ready.
The Yucca rostrata, or Beaked yucca, is an unusual evergreen popular throughout the southwestern United States. Valued for the architectural effect created by its sword-shaped leaves and dramatic, seasonal flowers, the Beaked yucca is used as a year-round accent in Xeriscapes, rock gardens and desert landscapes. The Yucca rostrata is desert-dwelling sun-lover, and as such, it has little tolerance for shady spaces or wet soils. Should the shrub be inadvertently planted in an unsuitable location, it may be easier to dig it up and move it than to try and nurse it along.
Many roses ordered from catalogs or online are shipped as bare roots. Bare roots is just what it sounds like -- roses sent with roots intact but no soil. They are typically shipped from November to April during the rose's natural resting period. Bare root roses are also the most economical, as shipping costs are much less than if they had the added weight of soil, according to David Austin Roses.
February is a bit early for planting strawberries unless you live in a climate with very mild winters, but if the soil is soft enough to work, you can plant bare root strawberries. These plants are dug from nursery fields and shipped in moist sawdust. They are still dormant, meaning that new leaves and flowers have not emerged. Because the plants are dormant, they can be planted in early spring. Wait to plant tender potted strawberry plants until late spring.
You may marvel at that lush green lawn in the backyard. Perhaps you’ve even had a few grumpy moments as you mow that same lawn. It just never stops growing. The culprit is hidden beneath the velvety carpet. Millions of tiny fibrous roots reach down into the soil to pull out nutrients and water. This sub-carpet of sorts is made up of many parts that work in harmony to keep plants with fibrous roots hydrated and healthy.
Plants need to be rugged and self-reliant when growing up in desert areas. The Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) embodies these qualities. After planting, it requires water consistently for its first year. After that, forget it. Literally. No fertilizer, no water and absolutely no pruning. In return you will get a lovely tree with peeling bark and a gray cast to the foliage. Use it as a windbreak or to accent the landscape with its 50-foot height and 30-foot spread. Plant the bare root Arizona cypress in early spring within USDA hardiness zones 7 through 9.
Staghorn ferns are not like typical ferns that grow in soil or pots. In nature, they grow on the side of trees. In the home, staghorn ferns can be grown just about anywhere. Planters can be hung on walls as decorations or hung anywhere that a little extra greenery is desired.
The coleus is ideal for adding colorful highlights to shady locations of your yard or garden. The plant is often grown in borders with annuals that bloom in bright colors, which brings out the shades in coleus variegated leaf patterns. Foliage colors include red, pink, maroon and yellow, depending on the cultivar. The coleus is one of the most carefree plants to grow from cuttings, because they root easily in a jar of water.
Fruit trees live for many years, with spring to summer growth and blooms, then summer to fall fruit harvests. The trees require maintenance, in terms of fertilizer and irrigation, and need consistent pruning for best fruit production. Pruning regimens also keep the trees shapely and constrained in their growth. Start the pruning process at planting for saplings to train their first branches.
The Online Dictionary of Botanical Terminology defines a fibrous root as "a fine root or rootlet which absorbs moisture and nutrients from the soil." In a fibrous root system, the primary and lateral roots are finely divided and roughly equal in diameter. No central root is larger than the rest, as is the case of a plant that has a tap root. The roots of most plants are fibrous.
Some plants within the mint family grow rhizomatous roots. They are commonly herbaceous perennials that are grown as herbs for culinary purposes, for fragrance in potpourri and sachets and to add floral interest to the garden. There is a species within the mint family that grows a large caudex and is often used in bonsai. Another mint species develops large tuberous roots. It is cultivated primarily as a food crop.
Azaleas are shrubs that feature colorful, attention-grabbing flowers and thus add decoration to your yard. When choosing azalea seedlings from a nursery, look for plants that show no signs of disease and have just a few flowers open and color present in a majority of the remaining buds. This gives the plants a longer period of time to bloom when you take them home.
Blue sea holly is a common name for Eryngium, a member of the carrot or Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae) family has a number of species and varieties in cultivation. Generally garden eryngiums are hardy perennial plants distinguished by blue, silver or slate-colored flowers that resemble thistles. Nurseries usually sell sea holly in pots, but occasionally in bare root form as well, with the top growth dormant or semi-dormant. The roots are long and slender, with dirt sometimes clinging to them. Plant with the root end down, and any top growth above the soil line.
Ligustrum is the genus name for privet, a common type of shrub used for hedges and privacy plantings in gardens around the world. Several species within the genus Ligustrum are commonly cultivated for their attractive ovate foliage and showy, sweetly fragrant flowers, including Ligustrum japonicum, Ligustrum vicaryi and Ligustrum ovalifolium. Most species within the genus Ligustrum transplant with ease into the garden in their bare-root form, but they must be moved in spring as the plants emerge from dormancy to increase the likelihood of survival.
Rhubarb is a perennial garden plant that produces edible stems. Since it is a perennial, it is often planted in the back of garden beds or alongside perennial flowers so it does not interfere with annual garden cultivation. Rhubarb is a low-maintenance plant that only requires moist soil. Rhubarb does not have common pests or diseases that you must prevent or treat and does well in most soil types.
Many species of hibiscus plants or shrubs exist, some of which are perennial or hardy and others are tropical hibiscuses that are grown as annuals or as houseplants in nontropical hardiness zones where winters consist of several months of subfreezing temperatures. Hibiscuses are very fast-growing plants, so splitting or dividing them at the root is an effective way to promote new and healthier growth and provide plants with more room to spread out.
Roses grow in all U.S. climate zones, with many varieties especially suited to hot, humid regions. This is demonstrated by the 20,000 thriving rosebushes in humid, subtropical Shreveport, Louisiana, in the gardens at the American Rose Society headquarters. Choose individual varieties according to local growing conditions. In very hot regions, roses rest during the hottest periods of the year.
A plant's endodermis is a single cylindrical layer of cells that does not permit water to flow between the cells. Not all plants have an endodermis, but the structure plays an important role in transporting water from the ground via the roots up through the rest of the plant. The endodermis thus allows trees and other large plants to grow much taller than otherwise would be possible.
Pittosporum is a versatile shrub that rarely needs pruning. It is an evergreen plant native to southern Japan and China and has a rapid growth rate until it reaches around 10 feet. The variegated form has attractively mottled white and green leaves with creamy-white flowers. Pittosporum may reach 12 feet in height, but it is easily kept smaller with consistent trimming and can even be used as a hedge. The plant has multiple stems and may be trained as a small tree by removing the lower limbs to expose the stems. Pittosporum should be pruned right after flowering to give…
Bare-root plants are young perennial plants or trees in dormancy. These plants are grown in a temporary location until they are harvested, wrapped in a container or bag, and planted in the permanent location. The roots of bare-root plants are extremely sensitive; if they dry out or come in contact with caustic chemicals, the roots will die. Solid fertilizer is a caustic material and therefore should never be applied around new bare root plants. Use a water-soluble fertilizer powder a few weeks after the plant has been established in its new location. To ensure a nutrient-rich beginning, amend the soil…
As the name implies, bare-root roses don't come in a pot with soil; they arrive at the nursery or in the delivery with their roots exposed. Although bare-root roses should be planted as soon as possible after receiving them, it's necessary to wait until the soil is warm and workable. The roses cannot be planted as-is, though, because a little maintenance must be performed on the plant before actually setting it in the soil.
Over time, a single spider plant has the potential to produce hundreds of new spider plants. Long, wiry stems grow out from the parent plant, producing small white flowers and tiny plantlets, which are replicas of the parent plant. The hardy spider plant makes an excellent hanging plant, with its flowered plantlet shoots cascading waterfall-like over the rim of the pot. When the plantlets touch soil, they can root. Yet, the plantlets also root in water alone, creating a bare-rooted spider plant.
Many fruit trees, roses, grapevines, and other perennial trees and shrubs are sold as "bare-root" plants. This means they are not potted in a nursery container with potting soil. Instead, they come from the nursery in burlap bags or other coverings. Sphagnum moss, sawdust, or peat moss is often used to keep the roots moist until the new owner takes the tree home. Spring is a good time to plant many types of bare-root fruit trees.
Propagating new plants from cuttings is an inexpensive method of obtaining new plants. Propagation through stem cuttings works well for most woody ornamental plants, including hibiscus shrubs. Although hibiscus cuttings can root in plain water, using soil or a soilless medium promotes a higher rooting success rate.
Large landscapes or water-centric landscaping can require high maintenance and specialized plants. To minimize the issue, root willows that are easy to grow and water-loving. Willows grow upwards of 30 to 50 feet, and grow fast. Using a single willow as a source, you can take multiple cuttings to create a grove of willows with little effort. Almost any branch can be used to grow a new tree.
A trained wisteria vine provides attractive greenery and flowers, but an overgrown vine flowers poorly and becomes a tangle of dead or barren vines. Wisterias tolerate severe pruning, which allows you to regain control of the overgrown plant and return it to its former beauty. Pruning isn't done all at once so it may take up to a year before the old plant is pruned and trained back to a healthy growth habit.
Healthy root growth and stimulation are essential to healthy plants. The roots carry nutrients to the rest of the plant, giving it the nutrients and support it needs to thrive. Well-fertilized roots not only ensure a long-lived plant but they also help plants develop high-yield, healthy fruit harvests. Hundreds of commercial fertilizers are available at gardening supply stores. However, they can be expensive and often contain artificial chemicals. Replace these refined nutrients with organic, homemade root stimulators.
Bare root roses are young plants sold with the exposed roots wrapped in damp organic material rather than planted in soil. Mail order vendors often sell roses this way, as they are lighter to ship. Often, specimens shipped as bare root plants are also dormant and have not yet begun active spring growth. Shipping dormant, bare root roses reduces the chance that the plants' growth will be hindered by transplant shock. Generally, growth rates vary according to species and variety, but bare root plants take a year or two to catch up to their containerized kin.
Raspberries are not only a delicious treat -- they make for a fun summer activity. Gardeners who grew up picking raspberries of their own know how rewarding the experience can be. A few scratches and stained fingers do nothing to dampen the experience. Raspberry is easy to grow from bare-root or potted plants.
Plants contain a hormone called auxin that stimulates root growth. Not only do auxins cause the roots to grow in length, the hormone causes the roots to grow laterally and expand. Auxins aid the plant in creating a healthy root system with strong root hairs. You can duplicate the work of the auxin hormone through synthetic compounds. You can also make a homemade rooting compound for plants that is free of chemicals and other toxins.
Roses add bright color and lush, thorny growth to the home garden and live for decades with the right care. All rose growth begins with the right planting time, space and preparation, as they require specific considerations. Plant roses as bare root plants at the right time of year and use some straightforward guidelines for success.
When you purchase a tree for planting at your local nursery or home and garden center, the tree usually is sold in a plastic pot or a root ball, which is a burlap sack wrapped around the tree's root system. In both cases, the tree's roots are encased in soil. However, if you order a tree online or through the mail, chances are that it will be a bare-root tree, which means that the root system is exposed. Planting a root tree is slightly different than planting a potted tree.
Plant propagation is done in a controlled environment with sterile conditions. Rooting a plant in a spade full of dirt from the garden may introduce all sorts of diseases and pests into the growing area. The chances are high that the plant cutting will die. Perlite is a sterile planting medium used for rooting plants from cuttings. Made from volcanic rock, perlite is a natural ingredient used in many planting mixes and does not damage the plants.
An austree is a hankow and white willow hybrid. The austree, like any other willow tree, is extremely fast growing. This fast growth is due to the size of the tree's root system. It can grow to full size within five years or less depending on its climate and nourishment. Willow trees, such as the austree, grow in soil that has a relatively lower pH and is more acidic than alkaline. Austrees are prone to disease and pests. They are commonly infested by mites, which greatly affect the tree's growth and health. An austree attracts a variety of different wild…
Healthy bare-root roses hold all the ingredients for a beautiful blooming plant. Proper preparation, planting and after-care are all they require -- plus time. Since bare-root roses start with the bare essentials, they must develop root systems, stems and leaves before pouring energy into bud production. Expect dormant bare-root plants to bloom eight to 12 weeks after planting.
About 70 boxwood shrub species used in landscapes due to their low maintenance. Boxwood shrubs are pruned without damaging the bush. Propagation is through seeds or stem cuttings. Cuttings generate a clone of the original boxwood bush. An entire branch is not needed for growing a new bush.
Plants of the genus Yucca occur in arid regions throughout the Americas, particularly in the American Southwest and western Mexico. Yuccas are instantly recognizable by the dense rosette of succulent, swordlike foliage they produce, as well as the 4- to 8-foot-tall flower stalk that emerges from the plant in summer. All parts of the yucca plant were once used by native people, including the large roots. Yucca roots contain high levels of suds-producing chemical compounds called saponins; the roots were widely harvested to be ground into powder and used as soap. Powdering yucca root takes a modest investment of time…
Green algae began the transition to land about 450 millions years ago. Probably the most important evolutionary step to living successfully on land was for early plants to develop the ability to resist drying out. Vascular is from the Latin "vasculum," meaning vessel or duct. Vascular plants, or tracheophytes, appeared about 410 million years ago, according to the fossil record. Today, vascular plants include most common plants, such as pines, ferns, corn and roses.
Propagating mint takes little time, money and effort. Instead of starting with seeds or purchasing plants, increase your indoor or outdoor herb garden by propagating mint plants. With just a few sprigs of mint from a parent plant, you will be able to quickly increase the number of plants you have. Root your favorite varieties of mint in water, and give potted plants to friends to enjoy in teas and recipes, or just for the pleasing aroma.
While they are all members of the Arecaceae family, palmettos (Sabal adans.) and palms are not the same plants. Only a few palm trees such as the Everglades palm (Acoelorraphe wrightii), Florida silver palm (Coccothrinax argentata) and desert palm (Washingtonia filifera) are native to the United States. Several palmetto species grow wild in a band from Texas and Oklahoma eastward to the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida. Palms and palmettos generally grow best in tropical and subtropical climates in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9 through 11.
Heavy metals, such as zinc and cadmium, get into soil as a result of manufacturing processes and household and other sources of waste. A large amount of such heavy metals in the soil upsets the ecological order and has some harmful effects on plants, including leguminous crops. There are also ways to combat the harmful effects of heavy metals.
Eastern red cedar trees (Juniperus virginiana L.) have dark green foliage that resembles needles when the tree is young. Like other cedars, the eastern red produces berrylike fruit that is a light blue in color. A bare root eastern red cedar is one that is dormant and arrives with no soil around the root ball or foliage on the stems. It may appear dead, but once planted soon begins to grow and thrive.
Wisteria's hanging chains of purple flowers have enchanted gardeners for generations. There are two types of Asian wisteria: Chinese and Japanese. Even though they bloom in different patterns, they require the same treatment. Often, a wisteria will not begin to bloom for 15 years if grown from seed, so most gardeners purchase grafted vines or cuttings of mature vines from nurseries to hasten the first blooms.
Boxwood, Buxus spp., is an evergreen shrub found in many home landscapes. It comes in a variety of species, but only a few are commonly used as ornamental plants. Boxwood does not require a great deal of maintenance, and provides good color during the winter months. Boxwood will provide years of attractive landscaping if a few issues of its health are addressed regularly.
The snake plant, also known as Mother in Law's Tongue, is a succulent type plant. It originated in South Africa, but in the United States, the snake plant is grown as a houseplant. It is possible to propagate the snake plant to increase the number of plants you have. Propagating snake plants can be difficult, but if you know what to do, your chances of success are improved.
Planting is an important time for gardens and orchards; the addition of peach trees brings flowers and, eventually, fruit to the garden. A cold snap during the planting season, however, can make it challenging to grow healthy, productive peaches, as frost is a serious problem for young and newly planted peach trees.
The Pinus sibirica, or Siberian pine tree, can grow to a total height of 100 to 150 feet. The tree is mainly found in the cooler climates of eastern Asia, but will thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 1 through 4. The Siberian pine tree grows well in full to partial sun, and prefers sandy, well-draining soil. The nuts of the tree are edible and are often roasted, sprinkled on cereal or made into pine nut oil.
A versatile and hardy bush, the boxwood adorns historical gardens as well as contemporary home landscaping. Resistant to deer, the boxwood shrub contains an alkaloid that deer find distasteful, according to the United States National Arboretum. Boxwood bushes require a well-drained soil and fertilizing twice a year to keep the shrub healthy. Pruning and watering when needed also ensure the bushes flourish.
Japanese holly is an evergreen shrub that produces small blossoms in the spring and attractive berries in the fall. These berries remain on the branches throughout the cold months, giving them a festive appearance in the winter landscape. This tree has a slow rate of growth and thrives in USDA Hardiness zones 6 through 8. Specific actions will help promote the health and beauty of this interesting specimen.
Prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura) is valued for its brightly colored, oval leaves. The leaves are deep olive or pale green with irregular bright green or red markings along the veins. Prayer plant is so named because the leaves fold in evening, like hands in prayer. Like most indoor plants, prayer plant is susceptible to root rot in soggy soil or moist conditions.
Roots anchor plants in the ground, absorb water and nutrients, and store food reserves. The roots of dicotyledons (dicots), plants with two seed leaves, differ from the roots of monocotyledons (monocots), plants with one seed leaf.
A bare-root almond tree is one that is dormant and does not have any soil around the roots. These trees are typically sold in the fall and winter months, and the roots are covered in bags to help keep them moist. It can be difficult to tell if a bare-root almond is still alive, since it does not have any leaves or coloring on the trunk. There are indications, however, to tell whether the tree is dead or alive.
Hibiscus plants can be grown indoors in pots, but will need to be re-potted every 3 to 4 years to keep them healthy and growing correctly. Like many houseplants, the hibiscus can become root bound. This occurs when the roots of the plant grow to the edges of the pot, and there is not enough room for viable soil. A root bound plant will eventually suffocate itself, since it cannot get the nutrients that it needs. While re-potting a root-bound hibiscus, you need to trim the roots so it is able to grow into its new home properly.
Wisteria, an energetic climbing vine, puts forth a strong and vibrant network of heavy vines to cover a vertical structure. After planting wisteria, you must prune it carefully to keep it growing properly. Without frequent pruning, wisteria vines may grow too vigorously and become overgrown and unruly. Trim wisteria bushes several times throughout the growing season to develop a climbing plant that thrives attractively in its growing location.
The bluebonnet is a pretty wildflower that deserves more attention than it gets. Not only does this hardy plant thrive in areas where rainfall is scarce, it also tolerates nutrient-poor, sandy or gravelly soils and exposure to full sun. Grown from seeds, transplants or cuttings, the bluebonnet fills gardens from Canada to Mexico with fragrant flowers, putting on an almost inexhaustible show of color and greenery.
Lepidium meyenii is a perennial plant native to the high Peruvian Andes. Maca root is the common name for this plant. The root of this plant is an herbal ingredient that is used in certain medicinal formulas designed to treat infertility. In its natural habitat, it grows along the steep tundra and alpine plains at altitudes higher than 11,000 feet above sea level. With proper planting techniques, you can grow a Lepidium meyenii as a potted houseplant.
The tree peony is a small, woody deciduous shrub that is the result of grafting tree peony wood onto herbaceous peony roots. Herbaceous peonies are leafy plants that die back to the soil in fall or winter. Whether you are planting a tree peony or herbaceous peony, location matters most. When scouting locations in which to plant the peony bush, look for one that receives at least six hours of sun per day. The ideal location is situated close to the house or other structure. Specialists at the Iowa State University Extension suggest giving the peony bush an eastern exposure.…
Annuals must be replanted every year, while perennials are planted once and continue to regrow every year providing lots of foliage and color that return each spring and summer with relatively little maintenance. Perennials can be the focal point of a flower garden, providing a backdrop against which different types of annuals can be grown. Some are easier to grow than others, with varieties available for both shaded and sunny garden areas.
Annual strawberry varieties grow well in a container placed in full sunlight. Set bare-root strawberries in a container that is specifically designed for growing the tasty fruit. The multiple holes on the side of the container allow room for the plants to grow out and require little space. This type of growing system allows those with small or no yards to have fresh fruit during the summer. Plant the bare-root strawberries immediately after purchasing to prevent the exposed roots from drying out.
Shrubs come in endless varieties, colors, sizes and shapes. They not only add a natural look to the landscape, but also increase the overall property value. These multipurpose plants provide borders or barriers; make great specimen plants and many produce beautiful blossoms and fruits. The process of planting shrubs differs somewhat depending on their condition when purchased; they may be bare root, in containers, or balled and burlapped. Bare root shrubs typically cost less to purchase, and most thrive when properly planted.
Rooting liquid stimulates the growth of small feeder roots. It contains hormones, vitamins and other plant nutrients, and is a staple horticulture supply. Home gardeners use various brands of rooting liquid to dip cuttings and to prevent transplant shock. Rooting liquid is usually sold as a concentrate that needs to be diluted, although some brands come ready for use.
Horseradish, known scientifically as Armoracia rusticana, is a native wild plant in Europe and western Asia but has become established in temperate climates throughout the world. The root of this plant is frequently used with vinegar as a condiment, combined with a number of other ingredients to make various sauces or used as a medicinal plant. Recognizing a horseradish plant may prove more difficult than you'd expect, as the intact plant lacks the characteristic horseradish root odor.
Peach trees are hardy stone fruit specimens that grow down to U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zone 5. These trees live through frost and need cold winters to set their buds and fruit, but they still need warmth and protection during planting and youth. In cold areas of the country where winter frost falls early, and you want to plant a peach tree, wait until the warmth of spring for a seedling or plant a peach pit in the fall.
Plants naturally achieve reproduction through the process of flowering, fruiting and seeding, by sending up fresh growth from their root systems or through the rooting of stems that lie on fertile soil, all forming new plants from the host parent. Cutting a stem section from a desirable plant and forcing it to root provides the gardener with a simple, inexpensive way to increase or preserve his plant collection through plant cutting propagation.
There are two types of hibiscus: tropical and hardy. While some hardy hibiscus can handle winter temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit, the tropical variety succumbs to temperatures below the 55 degree Fahrenheit mark. Planting your hibiscus in a pot that contains adequate drainage solves this temperature dilemma, allowing you to move the pot from location to location depending on the weather.
Native to southeastern Europe but quickly and widely naturalizing as a wildflower, horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is a deep-rooted member of the mustard family, Brassicaceae. Also called red cole, common horseradish should not be confused a green-rooted cousin native to Asia and used to make wasabi. Gardeners in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 4 through 8 know horseradish is an easy-to-grow perennial vegetable, if not a weed. In other USDA zones, grow it as an annual.
Wisteria is a sturdy, woody vine with bright green leaves and lovely lavender flowers that resemble clusters of grapes. Wisteria vines are often used to cover arbors, trellises and fences. Although wisteria can grow up to 10 feet in one year, waiting for it to cover your arbor can seem like forever when it's hot outside and you'd like to sit under its shade. While there's no way to guarantee that your wisteria will grow at a certain pace, for the highest likelihood that it will mature as fast as possible, grow it under its most preferred conditions.
Willow trees are fast growing, and when planted as bare root trees, their development can take off quickly. Many growers prefer bare root plants to more mature trees because they are not root bound and experience less shock when planted in their permanent location. While a bare root willow may appear to be dead, it is simply in its dormant stage. Once it has been planted and watered, it begins to thrive within just a few weeks.
The prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura) is appropriately named for its interesting growth habit, as the large leaves fold up like praying hands at night, then reopen in the morning. Prayer plant is a striking houseplant valued for its distinctively marked foliage. Depending on the variety, the large, oval leaves are pale green with brown patches, or deep green with bright red veins and gray-green borders. Propagate the prayer plant by taking cuttings during spring or early summer.
All roses are available as bare root plants from late fall to early spring. Bare root roses are dormant plants that are packaged and sold with wood shavings around the root system. Climbing roses, hybrid tea roses, floribunda, miniature and heirloom rose varieties are available bare root. Each variety grows to the established heights indicated on the package. Bare root roses are available in Grades 1, 1 ½ and 2. Grade 1 roses have the plumpest canes and strongest root system.
A bare foot tree is a tree that was dug from the ground and sold without being transplanted in a container or having the roots covered. Bare root trees are dug in the winter when dormant and stored at near-freezing temperatures in high humidity until sold. Apple trees are often sold as bare root trees in early spring. Bare root apple trees should be planted in early spring as soon as the ground can be worked.
Rose bushes generally are sold one of two ways: in pots or "bare root." Bare-root specimens typically are supplied by catalog or online retailers. The plants are shipped in a dormant state -- without leaves or flowers. The roots usually are wrapped in moist packing material, which often is encased in a plastic covering. Though the roses may look unappealing when they arrive, with a little care they will leaf out and flourish in the garden.
Plants require certain conditions to grow and thrive. However, even if you care for your plants perfectly, they may grow slowly or turn out smaller than you expected. Instead of pouring chemicals into your water or sprinkling them on the soil, try homemade growth stimulators. They're inexpensive and friendlier to the environment than commercial stimulants.
Man's interest in impressing his creative sensibilities on nature is evident in the long history of topiary gardening. As small trees and shrubs artfully sculpted into simple geometric shapes such as spheres, cones, and spirals, boxwood topiaries recall the formally designed palace gardens of 17th century France. Enjoy a boxwood topiary as an ornamental, outdoor plant, and give it the attention it needs to maintain its health as well as its crisp, sculptural form.
Used to aid in overall well being and sexual function, the Lepidium meyenii plant, commonly known as maca, is a vegetable used as a supplement. In addition to sexual function, maca proponents claim it has other hormonal benefits as well. Though anecdotal evidence abounds citing maca's positive qualities, a lack of scientific studies leaves many consumers skeptical.
Horseradish is a perennial vegetable that thrives when planted in deep, rich, well-drained soil of temperate climate locations. Root rot in horseradish is a fairly common problem caused by over-watering or fungus in the soil.
Peach trees (Prunus persica) are deciduous fruit trees that are the second-most popular fruit in the United States. These fruit trees only arrived in North America 300 years ago when Spanish explorers brought them over from Europe. Today there are more than 200 different varieties of peaches. Peach trees are dug out of the ground in a nursery and packaged with their roots covered in moist moss or sawdust. These bundled bare-root peach trees are then shipped out to customers.
A wilting rose appears to stand against the beauty and love symbolized by fresh flowers. Too much or too little water for your roses can lead to stunted growth, thin and weak flowers and petals and browning in the leaves. The amount of water roses need varies by climate, including rainfall and temperature, but there are some basic guidelines you can follow.
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is a member of the Brassica family, which gets its common name from the German, meerrettich, which means "sea radish." The switch to "horse radish" may stem from the English mistaking "meer" for "mahre," the word for an elderly horse. The English name has been around for centuries. Horseradish is not only a familiar condiment, but a familiar plant that will thrive in home gardens throughout most of the United States.
A bare root rose is sold from the nursery or mail-ordered without soil. Instead, the roots are wrapped in moist shavings of wood or peat moss. When selecting at the nursery, obtain bare root roses that have three or more strong canes that are green and smooth. The buds should be plump and brightly colored, according to the University of California Cooperative Extension. Properly caring for a bare root rose during each growing season is essential to its longevity year after year.
Vinca minor, or the common periwinkle, is a hardy but invasive ground cover. It can be grown from seeds or from bare root starter plants.
The Hollywood plum is a variety of the Japanese plum tree. The Hollywood plum will grow to 12 feet in height and, with its pink blossoms in the spring, makes a stunning garden ornamental. In late summer or early fall, you can harvest delicious plums for eating fresh or cooking. Hollywood plum trees are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 5 through 9.
Water is an essential need of plants. Used in photosynthesis, it serves as a raw material for the production of sugars that provide energy for the plant to grow. Water also carries nutrients from the soil.
Also known as bleeding glorybower, the bleeding heart vine (Clerodendrum thomsoniae) is a flowering member of the verbena family that is commonly cultivated for its exotic red and white flowers. The plant is a suitable outdoor ornamental for warm, frost-free climates, although it may be grown in a container and taken indoors during the winter in cooler regions.
The parts of a plant are classified according to a shoot system and a root system. The root system is comprised of the parts that grow beneath the soil, while the shoot system is made up of parts that grow above the soil.
Lavender plants bring abundant fragrance and color to the garden, and is surprisingly easy to grow. Lavender adapts well to the desert environment because it is native to warm, dry regions in the Mediterranean. Plant the lavender in a sunny location in the landscape. The challenge in the desert is going to be keeping an eye on the moisture content of the soil as it will have a tendency to dry out quicker than in other regions.
Bare-root roses are available in the spring in stores and through the mail. Bare-root roses are dormant and can be planted as soon as the ground is workable.
Peonies are perennial shrubs that produce large flowers in the spring. They come in both pots and as bare-root plants. A bare-root peony needs proper care and planting to avoid drying out the roots and killing the plant.
Bleeding hearts (Dicentra spectabilis and D. eximia) are available as bare root plants in spring. Bare root plants are often less expensive than potted ones. You're assured of getting a vigorous plant since you can inspect the root system.
Eucalyptus trees are tall, fragrant trees native to the subtropical atmosphere of Tasmania. These trees grow in tall varieties, reaching over 230 feet in height, and small shrub varieties, which grow well in pots or as hedges. Eucalyptus leaves are oval and foggy-green and give off an appealing scent year-round. In coastal British Columbia, where summer temperatures are warm but winters may drop below freezing, it's a good idea to choose a smaller variety of eucalyptus and grow it in a pot, indoors.
The over 700 species of eucalyptus plant differ in size dramatically from a small shrub to a fully grown tree. Bark and fruits also differ with species and age. While many species of eucalyptus are adapted to hot weather, many suffer in humid weather if gardeners do not take precautions.
Researchers recognize more than 100,000 fungus species. Some fungi are beneficial, but others sicken or kill their plant, animal or human hosts. Most fungi fall into one of four main categories.
Lavender plants have long been a favorite of gardeners and homeowners. Not only is the perennial herb attractive with its blue-grey foliage and fragrant purple flower stalks, but it has many uses in potpourri, sachets, teas and culinary creations. For northern gardeners, lavender can be frustrating to grow if you have selected a French lavender variety, which is not as hardy as the English, or Lavender angustifolia, variety. English lavender can be grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture planting zones 4 to 10, providing you with sweet smelling flowers and foliage that draw bees and butterflies to your yard.
"Old country roses" usually means older rose varieties often found growing in country gardens.These are frequently species, also known as "wild" roses, or old varieties. To find desirable varieties, start with an illustrated reference source, such as Peter Beales "Classic Roses."
Figs are the succulent fruit of the ficus tree. Fig trees are semi-tropical and require a full day of sun and warm temperatures to thrive. Some of them are cold hardy to 30 degrees Fahrenheit for brief cold snaps. Bare root fig trees are dormant and actually contain 200 percent more roots than balled and burlapped trees. They are easier to transport and allow for proper planting depth. The fig can grow quite large so a planting site with plenty of room and light is essential. Good drainage is the most important consideration and next is soil fertility.
Growth hormones are chemicals that plants produce to regulate the growth process. Gardeners can manually apply these hormones to encourage cuttings to grow into individual plants. Propagating new plants can be done safely by using powdered rooting hormones, available at garden supply stores. The chemicals are ready to use without preparation or complicated mixing.
According to John Karlick, extension advisor at University of California, "March is an excellent time period for planting bareroot trees" because early spring temperatures gradually rise and create a "smooth transition during the time of establishment."
Trees need care, just as other plants in the landscape. Watering, feeding and pruning on a regular basis keeps the trees healthy. Pruning at the wrong time of the year may endanger or kill the trees. Remove dead branches any time of the year, but avoid pruning fruit trees or flowering trees unless they are dormant.
Roots are one of the major adaptations that helped vascular plants conquer land. The process by which they extract water and nutrients from soil is complex. Their structure is key to this process. Flowering plants are divided into two groups: monocots and dicots.
A plant's roots generally grow downward in response to the force of gravity, also known as gravitational pull. Because the roots aren't resisting gravity, this process is called positive geotropism, as opposed to the negative geotropism exhibited by a plant's shoots as they grow upward against gravity, states Science Buddies.
Phosphate is essential for optimal plant growth and crop yields, according to Colorado State University Extension. Phosphate fertilizer is available in an inorganic form manufactured from rock phosphate, or organically in sludge, manure, vermicompost or powdered bonemeal. Plants utilize phosphate the same way no matter what form it is applied in. As long as you provide them with adequate levels of phosphate, plants will utilize and benefit from the fertilizer.
Plant roots absorb water and nutrients, store carbohydrates and anchor the plant. Specialized cells and tissues help accomplish these tasks. Each part of the root has a role that is vital to plant growth and development.
The Austree is a fast-growing, hybrid willow. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the tree does not originate from Australia as is popularly supposed, but from New Zealand. A stand of Austrees is often grown as a windbreak or to absorb gaseous ammonia and reduce odors from nearby farms. Some plant nurseries claim Austrees can grow at a rate of 10 feet per year. Austrees need a lot of water and they have substantial, vigorous root systems. You must protect the root system very carefully when transplanting any kind of tree.
Mint plants are so difficult to kill that even the novice would be hard-pressed to not succeed with rooting them. All mints, with the exception of peppermint, can be grown from seed, but it's much faster and easier to root stem cuttings from one that you like. Cuttings can be taken from any of the mints whenever they're actively growing throughout the spring and summer.
Rhubarb, known botanically as Rheum rhabarbarum, is an herbaceous perennial vegetable with tart, celery-like stalks that can be used to make pies, jams, jellies, puddings and other desserts. A cool-season garden vegetable, rhubarb grows best in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 8. Careful site selection and soil preparation at the time of planting will help to ensure successful rhubarb cultivation.
The top of a fresh pineapple is generally thrown in the trash since it is not edible, but it does not have to be. Pineapple plants are attractive houseplants, and growing one from the top of the fruit is not difficult. While most plants grown this way do not produce fruit, the resulting plant, with its long, sharp leaves, can be a welcome addition to any decor.
Grapevines, one of the oldest cultivated plants, provide delicious fruit as well as lush foliage. European grapes aren't hardy enough for most parts of the northern United States, but several hybrid American varieties grow very well. Grapes need a lot of space to grow, and a trellis or fence to support their heavy vines. They also require yearly pruning and training to keep them healthy. Bare root plants are grown at a nursery, then dug up and sold in a soilless package. These plants are more economical than potted plants and you'll probably find a better selection, as well.
Roots are used by vascular plants to absorb water and nutrients from the ground. Roots are also responsible for holding plants in place and stockpiling food. Generally, roots are located below ground, which are known as aerial roots. Aerating roots are less common, but these roots are usually located above water or the ground. While all roots are responsible for the same function, there are different types of root systems.
A variety of peach trees can grow readily in U. S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9, although many peach trees do best in the warmer climates of zones 8 and 9. Plant the bare-root peach tree during the winter, while the tree is dormant, so it can acclimate to its new growing location.
Peach trees are medium-sized fruit trees with mature heights of only 12 to 15 feet. These stone fruit trees are hardier to cold than the more sensitive citrus trees, but they still require the bright summer sun and early springs of USDA Growing Zones 5 to 9. Arizona offers USDA Growing Zones 5 to 10 and can support peach planting and growth throughout the state. However, even in this relatively warm state, gardeners should be careful with planting timeline and preparation.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a woody evergreen shrub suitable for growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. It grows best in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Although rosemary tolerates partial shade, it's susceptible to fungal diseases in shady locations where air circulation is poor. Rosemary has fragrant leaves and stems that enhance the flavor of meat and vegetable dishes. It is propagated--or rooted--by a variety of methods including layering. Layering a rosemary plant is most effective when done in the spring.
Bonsai plant root mold indicates the presence of a disease. Whether it's a form of root rot, canker or mildew, root mold can cause serious issues for your bonsai plant. Not every type of root mold is curable, but identifying and treating the root mold at its early stages can give your bonsai plant a greater chance of survival.
When planting bare-root trees and shrubs, it is important to trim up the root and put it in a bucket of water overnight to rehydrate. Plant the bare-root during the winter with help from a landscape designer in this free video on planting.
Perlite, an ingredient of many potting soil mixes, looks like small, white beads in the soil. It is a volcanic glass that pops and expands when heated to 1,600 degrees F, resulting in a lightweight, granular substance that can be mixed with soil, or used on its own.
Root stimulators designed for plants, flowers and trees help promote strong root growth. Often debated by the gardening community, root stimulators claim to have essential nutrients that support the growth of existing plant roots, and stimulate the growth of new roots. Root stimulators are often used when plants, flowers or bare-root trees are transplanted. Always follow the instructions and guidelines for proper application.
Plant tissue cultures are used to create genetically identical plants from a single source. This process is used to propagate quality plant strains noted for their yield, coloration or other desirable traits. Tissue cultures frequently are in the form of cuttings from a plant, but also can be in the form of embryos or seeds. You can root cutting tissue cultures of a large variety of plants including rice, but they require the proper conditions to begin rooting.
A blackberry bush that is planted early in the season produces its crop of berries the following year. The roots of blackberry plants are perennials but the cane is biennial, lasting two years. Blackberry bushes average 30 inches wide by 30 inches tall. Fruit buds are produced in the fall and develop into clusters of berries the following season.
Cherry trees come in a number of species, such as varieties that produce sweet or tart tasting cherries. They also come in dwarf or standard sizes. Some cherry trees are grown specifically for the ornamental features, like the trees seen in Washington, D.C., filled with blossoms each spring or weeping varieties that produce long sweeping branches. Select a variety suited for your location and use the proper technique when planting, especially when planting bare root cherry trees.
The maca root plant is native to the Andes mountains of Peru and used as an herbal remedy for infertility, as well as a food source for the Peruvian people. Only the root of the plant is harvested and sold in powdered or whole-root form. Maca root is related to other root vegetables, such as a turnip, that will regrow each year after it is established. You can plant your own maca root plant with careful attention to soil preparation.
Unlike other stone fruit, such as peaches and sweet cherries, plum trees will grow in most regions of the U.S. In northern regions, plant the bare root plum tree in any time between October through early December. Winter planting gives the roots a chance to become established and develop before the spring growing period.
Bare-root fruit trees do not resemble the trees that they will eventually grow into at all. In fact, a bare-root tree often looks like a brown stick. The term "bare root" means that the fruit tree is not planted in soil, such as a pot or in a burlap sack. Instead, the entire tree is exposed. Because bare-root fruit tees have no established root system, planting them requires special considerations. In particular, you must provide protection from wind damage.
Prayer plant (Maranta spp.), with its striped leaves that fold like hands at prayer, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow houseplant. It is just as easy to propagate as it is to grow. If you have a prayer plant you'd like to multiply, or if a friend has given you a piece of the plant, rooting it is an easy indoor gardening project.
Legumes are magicians of the plant world. Seemingly out of thin air, they manufacture their own nitrogen fertilizer. In this mutually beneficial arrangement, worked out over millennia, specialized soil bacteria make atmospheric nitrogen available to plant roots as ammonia nitrogen. This magic is a process called nitrogen fixation, and occurs in specialized root tissue called nodules. Some legumes tend to have more nodules, but active bacteria determine the actual number, which is why bacterial seed inoculants are used.
A bare-root plant is a perennial that is not actively growing and is being stored without any soil. When the plant is in its dormant state, it is removed from the soil, packaged and refrigerated. The purpose of this is to preserve the plant until it is shipped and replanted. Once the plant is planted in soil again, it will come out of its dormant state and begin to grow again.
Misting the cuttings you want to root from existing plants is advisable if you want the cuttings to root quickly and well. According to the University of California Davis, misting cuttings taken early in the season have an excellent chance of taking root and flourishing, faster than cuttings that don't receive misting. Greenhouses and nurseries have elaborate misting systems to accomplish this task; however, it's possible to adapt this method at home to root anything from vegetative plants like coleus or begonia, to woody ornamentals like azalea or rhododendron.
The prayer plant, which has the Latin name of Maranta leuconeura, is a tropical, perennial that is native to Brazil. The plant has large, oblong-shaped leaves that are light green with darker green spots in the center. The plant gets its name from the way that it folds all of the leaves into an upright position each night. Propagating the prayer plant can be accomplished by cutting a section from one of the stems and planting it.
Nanking bush cherry plants are not your typical cherry trees. They are smaller, growing to a mature size of 6 to 8 feet tall and branching out 4 to 5 feet wide. They arrive from nursery providers as bare-root stock 12 to 18 inches tall. Growers may find them to be desirable for providing a leafy screen or for producing tasty fruit and sweet-smelling blossoms. Bush cherries are prolific, producing up to 2 gallons of fruit per bush. They are hardy in zones 2 through 8 and should be planted early in the spring, when danger of frost is past.
Horseradish is a perennial herb, meaning you really only have to plant it once, then dig it up every few years to divide it and prevent overcrowding. This root has a bite but is high in Vitamin C, has zero fat and is used as a condiment to add zest to many foods. Growing your own horseradish is easy, if you start in the late fall or early spring to give the roots ample time to grow.
Although the appearance of celery root, also known as celeriac, isn't likely to improve the look of your soup or salad, it most certainly will enhance its taste. This root vegetable is a close relative to common celery stalk but does not contain stringy fibers, which makes it preferable for use in flavoring dishes, according to online resource Practically Edible. It can be grown throughout most of the United States with the proper gardening conditions.
Blackberries are perennial plants that bear fruit on stems called canes. The roots live indefinitely and send up canes every year. The canes fruit in the second season, then die. Transplanted blackberries exhibit hardiness, proving them almost impossible to kill. Many varieties of blackberries can be found through nursery and home improvement stores. Cuttings, suckers and bare root transplants can also be taken off of existing plants.
A member of the lily family, the yucca plant produces sword-shaped foliage that rises from the soil line. The yucca plant favors sunny well-drained soil within USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9; where the temperatures dip no lower than -40 degrees F in winter. If you are considering planting yucca in your backyard landscape, garden centers and online sources offer bare root plants. Unlike container-grown nursery plants, bare root plants are dormant and have all of the dirt removed from their roots. Bare root yucca plants require immediate planting in order to keep the roots from drying out.
One of the amazing aspects of plants is their ability to reproduce. Plants can be grown from seeds, some plants can be grown by planting part of a root, and some plants can be grown from cuttings. Seaweed can assist plant cuttings to grow successfully.
Boxwood (Buxus sp.) is renowned for its ability to be hedged, clipped and shaped into nearly any shape imaginable. Creating topiary boxwood can be a challenge and may certainly require patience, yet the results are well worth the effort. Furthermore, starting boxwood from bare root is a cheap, although a somewhat more difficult alternative to traditional containerized or balled plants.
Peaches do very well in Texas. In fact, Texas has a thriving commercial peach industry. Whether or not peaches will thrive in your backyard depends on your soil quality, adequate winter "chilling," and how well you protect your trees from spring frost. It also depends on the peach variety you plant, because not all peaches will do well in all seven Texas "growing zones" for peaches and other stone fruit. Specialty nurseries and local master gardeners can provide reliable guidance.
Hibiscus are flowering plants that are revered for their ability to bloom nearly all year long. They can be grown as small trees or large shrubs, and they make for an attractive specimen plant or addition to a flower garden. The trumpet-shaped flowers of hibiscus come in a wide assortment of colors and sizes. When planting a bare-root hibiscus, make sure you plant the hibiscus within 1 to 2 days after purchasing.
Native to the Rocky Mountains, osha root (Ligusticum porteri), or bear medicine, is a member of the parsley family. Considered a sacred healing herb by Native Americans, osha root grows to heights of 3-feet tall and produces white flowers on long hollow stalks. The celery-scented seeds of osha root form at the top of the plant. The root of the plant, brown on the outside and yellow on the inside, is highly attractive to bears. If you live within zones 6 through 11, you can plant osha root for your own medicinal purposes.
The bleeding heart is a beautiful, delicate and graceful plant that never fails to perform. Depending on the species, the flowers may be cherry-red, pink, purple or white. This plant will bloom in the spring, then sproadically through the summer, dying down to the ground and remaining dormant for the winter. It will rebloom the following next spring. Bleeding heart can be planted in the ground bare root during its dormant season without much difficulty. When a plant is bare root, it comes with no soil on the roots. Many gardeners like this, because it doesn't introduce foreign soil into…
Top soil erosion is a serious concern for modern farmers. With inconstant rains and hillside farming, a great deal of the land has already begun losing its rich top soil. When determining which types of plants to use for erosion control, you must consider your specific farming conditions.
Starting plants from cuttings using root regrowth hormone is simple, reliable and economical. To a beginning gardener, it may seem intimidating, but there is no need to shy away from working with hormones to start plants.
Gardeners and farmers add soil nutrients to encourage the establishment and growth of roots so that transplanted plants adapt to and thrive in their new environment. Root stimulators and phosphates are both used to add nutrients to soil.
Bare-root roses can be obtained on-line and ordered from a nursery. The advantage to bare-root rose plants is that you can usually find just about any rose you would like to have. The other advantage is they cost less than roses sold in containers. Planting is fairly easy. Here's how you do it.
Bare-root strawberry plants are dormant plants. They are not planted in nursery pots or soil, instead they are a bare-root with what appears to be shriveled foliage or stems attached. Once planted, the strawberry plants begin producing new leaves and quickly wake up from dormancy. Bare-root plants are often sold by nurseries and seed catalogs, as the dormant plants are simpler to package and ship. Planting them properly ensures they wake up from dormancy and begin producing as soon as possible.
The yellow root plant is a perennial that belongs to the ranunculaceae family and its Latin name is Hydrastis Canadensis.
That first slice of strawberry and rhubarb pie, an American classic, can transform your assumptions about vegetables. Rhubarb is a close relative of garden sorrel and quite tough (almost a weed), a perennial plant that prefers cold-winter climates. Adding vegetable variety to both English and American diets since the 18th century, rhubarb has long been cultivated in Tibet and China for medicinal use. Rhubarb stalks are tasty, but leaves contain oxalic acid and are considered toxic (though safe to compost).
Palmetto trees grow widely from North Carolina to Florida. Known as sabal palm or cabbage palm, the trees prefer a salty environment and wet soils.
Commonly grown in Europe, the elderberry, or sambucus nigra, has gained popularity in the United States. Quite edible, the fruits of the elderberry plant make tasty jams, syrups, pie fillings and wine. The petals of the elderberry flower are also safe to eat and make a fragrant tea. Most elderberry plants grow between 6 and 12 feet and provide a supplemental food source for neighboring wildlife. The elderberry plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9 and prefers fertile soil. When planting bare root elderberry, the size of the hole requires special attention.
If your nursery doesn't have a type of rose that you want to plant, consider ordering the rose bush online. Roses that are shipped will most often be dormant, bare root roses.
Citronella is a grassy kind of plant that is widely used for its bug repellent qualities--particularly with regard to mosquitoes. The plant has a unique and pleasant aroma and if grown around the home the leaves can be crushed and rubbed over the skin for a natural alternative to Deet or other repellent chemicals. Amazingly, citronella will grow quite well just from the leaf cuttings of the plant. This is one of the easier plants to try this process with, but knowing a few tricks ahead of time will help you get more consistent and quick results.
Grapes are an excellent addition to the home garden. They don't require any more care than other types of fruits and vegetables, and it's easy to grow grapes from cuttings. Just be sure you have a suitable spot in your garden. Grapes need full sun and warm temperatures to grow properly.
The eucalyptus plant originated in Australia and is most often grown in the United States for wood. Its leaves and stems contain oil which can be used in cleaning products and for medicinal purposes. Eucalyptus plants will only grow in areas where the temperature does not fluctuate quickly or drop below freezing. They are particularly successful in California, Washington and Oregon. Rooting a eucalyptus plant is not difficult, as long as you have the correct knowledge of how to maintain the plant.
You can cut a tree, shrub or plant to root if you want to multiply your hedges or fruit trees. Most commercial garden operations use propagated stems to create a unique array of plants. Successful root cuttings can take patience but rewards are well worth the effort. Apple trees can bloom sooner as a cutting, and your azalea could make a nice bonsai for a shelf or counter.
Henry Homeyer, writing for the Nashua Telegraph, points out that bare root roses are nearly always dormant because they are kept refrigerated to inhibit growth before shipping. It is better for long-term plant health if the roots can grow into their permanent location in the garden instead of in a pot, so it is up to the gardener to "wake up" the roots. How you choose to do this depends on your climate and the season in which you obtain your plant. You can either wake the roots up artificially or wait for nature to do it for you.
Have you ever enjoyed the wonderful taste of homemade root beer? Chances are it was made from sarsaparilla. This attractive, flowering herb is often used as a substitute for flavoring root beer. Wild sarsaparilla (Aralia nudicaulis) can be found growing wild in many areas of the United States. With a little care, you can grow this herb in your garden from seeds or root cuttings. If you enjoy growing herbs, you will have fun with this one.
Propagating plants by rooting cuttings is a simple, inexpensive way to increase the number of plants you have in your home or garden. Although you can root cuttings in a rooting medium such as vermiculite or Perlite, the no-frills method of a simple container of water works just as well for easily rooting plant cuttings such as coleus and mints. Vining houseplants such as Swedish ivy and philodendrons also root well in water. It generally takes these plants three to five weeks after cutting to develop a root system that is strong enough to be planted in potting soil.
Bare root rose bushes do not contain leaves or blooms when they are shipped. Some even look sickly, though they are perfectly healthy and ready for planting. When ordering through the mail, the bushes are sent at just the right time for planting in your growing zone. Brick and mortar greenhouses tend to only stock bare root roses when it is the appropriate planting time for your area. As long as you plant them promptly and ensure that they are on well-drained soil and not exposed to conditions of drought, your bare root rose bushes will be revived and covered…
The tall spikes of canna lilies, with their red, yellow or orange blossoms, make an impressive display beside a fence or wall. Cannas are available in a standard variety, which can grow up to ten feet tall, and dwarf variations, which top out at three feet.The tropical natives bloom steadily from mid-summer to fall, but wither at first frost. Canna lilies can thrive as far north as zone three. While cannas can survive the mild winters of zones seven through ten, you'll need to take extra steps to ensure another colorful display next spring.
There are two types of purchased rose bushes: bare root and container. Container roses can be transplanted in the fall, as they establish themselves quickly. These bushes will fare well over winter. In contrast, plant bare root rose bushes in the spring, because of their longer period of adjustment. Bare root rose bushes, although not difficult to plant, have some other special requirements.
Peonies have enchanted gardeners for years, and varieties can be found in many reestablished antique gardens. Peonies are sold in a variety of ways; bare-root means that there's no soil on the root ball and no upper foliage. Sold in late summer to early fall, bare-root peonies can be bought at nurseries, by mail order and in garden centers. Reputable mail order peony specialists will send peonies at the best time to plant in your area. Fall planting of bare-root peonies allows feeder roots to develop before the big spring growth push and bloom season. Proper planting in the fall…
Dicotyledon plants make up many of the plants used for food, decorating and landscaping. Most deciduous trees, flowering shrubs and bushes and vines fall into the category of dicots. Identify them by observation of features such as seedling appearance or leaf structure, including the structure of the root system, according to Jim Conrad of Backyard Nature.
Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is a deep green plant that sprouts tiny yellow leaves, black fruits and seeds. This plant lives a long life and blooms from spring to mid-summer. It's native to the Asian-Pacific area, although it does grow in the United States. Different variations are found all over the world. Among them is the famous Christmas holly with red berries and dark green leaves.
Plant roots and seeds are the two most basic structures of plant life and growth---with one responsible for the origin of plants and the other responsible for structure, stability, and absorption of water and nutrients.
Water is the life-blood of a plant. It carries dissolved sugars, minerals and vitamins up from the soil into every part of the plant, and keeps the plant upright, strong and nourished. The process of collecting water begins with the plant's roots. Roots do not actually reach down into the soil to find water reserves, and plants don't sip water through roots like straws. Instead, the hundreds--and sometimes thousands--of hairs that extend from the tip of every root absorb water from the soil. The roots themselves mainly serve to anchor the plant firmly in place and channel the water upward.…
Many times when you order roses from online nurseries and gardening centers, they are shipped in bare-root form. Bare-root roses don't have any dirt around the root area and they require the use of a special planting technique to ensure that they survive and thrive.
Mycorrhizae (sing. mycorrhiza) are symbioses between a fungus and the roots of a plant. Most plants participate in this relationship, which is beneficial to the plant and the fungus. The plant obtains water and mineral nutrients from the fungus and the fungus obtains carbon compounds, derived from photosynthesis, from the plant. Mycorrhizae are classified into one of two basic types: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae.
Bare root raspberries are sold with their roots exposed. Plants are often sold online and shipped in bare root form to cut down on the weight of the plant. They must be kept moist until the plants can be planted in soil. Keep wet newspapers or wet paper towels around the roots to keep them moist. Plant the bare root raspberries the same day that they are purchased if possible.
Planting bare-root roses doesn't have to be a time-consuming project when you purchase well-hydrated plants from a nursery. Choose plants with strong canes that feel heavy when lifted. Smooth bark that is green signals a properly watered bare-root rose that will not require soaking. Plant the rose immediately to avoid drying out the roots for the best results. Plant dormant bare-root roses in early spring as soon as the last frost has passed.
To plant a bare root tree or shrub, remove the plastic or burlap immediately to allow the roots some air and then plant the tree as deep as the roots, being careful not to cover any bark. Try planting trees and shrubs in the fall, so they will establish themselves over the winter, with advice from a sustainable gardener in this free video gardening.
Bare-root roses will need a bit more care at first than potted ones, but all things being equal, they will grow just fine, as roses are very resilient. The stems may not survive a harsh winter, but as long as the roots are OK, the plant will come back in the spring.
Erosion is a natural force caused by wind and water in which rock or soil is moved from one location to another. This can cause problems, such as removing the nutrient-rich topsoil needed for growing food and destabilizing the ground beneath roads and buildings, leaving them prone to structural damage or even destruction. Because of the wide range of differences in each situation, including geography and climate, there are several different methods to stop erosion.
Learn how to tease the roots of house plant in this free online gardening video.
Learn about examining Japanese Iris roots in this free video clip about gardening.
Plant rooting is a simple and cost-effective way of sharing and expanding your garden. Whether you are turning a single plant into many, moving plants from one end of the yard to another, or exchanging your bouquet-bearing beauties with your neighbors, getting those plants to root takes little effort and time and is its own budding, flowering, growing reward.
Peonies produce stunning, old-fashioned blooms in delicate shades of pink, white, yellow and red, but are one of the sturdiest plants known. The shrub-like perennials live in gardens for decades, producing lush blooms and full, leathery foliage year after year. For a peony to blooms prolifically, the root division from which it grows must be planted properly.
At some time or another you have probably seen plants growing out of a water glass. In "Grandma's day" growing plants from slips was common and there is no reason why you can't do the same thing on your kitchen windowsill today.Just bear in mind that not every attempt to grow plants from slips is going to be successful. In some cases it may be that you have chosen a plant that simply refuses to grow roots from a cutting--or it could be that a particular cutting simply refuses to root while a different cutting from the same plant may…
Peonies can last a lifetime if planted and cared for correctly. Here's how to plant roots.
Planting root cuttings is a good way of growing new plants from plants that you already have in your house or garden. By simply cutting pieces of plant roots, new plants can be propagated. Any plant that sprouts from its roots is a good candidate to use when planting root cuttings. Here's how to plant root cuttings.
Magnificent dinner plate dahlias command respect in any summer garden. These gargantuan blooms are available in a remarkable variety of colors and shapes. If planted correctly, dahlia flowers can achieve sizes up to 14 inches in diameter.
Bare-root roses don't look very promising - they're all dormant stem and brown roots and look dead - but they're the ideal way to get your roses off to a great start since there's no chance of transplant shock. Plant in early spring in any part of the country or autumn, in USDA Zones 6 and warmer.
Many kinds of shrubs and trees are sold while leafless and dormant, with roots bare of soil. A bare-root plant may look pathetic, but if you start it out properly and care for it well, it will thrive.
Preparing the soil correctly will allow your bush or tree to grow straight and strong.
