It seems like winter has taken a toll on the spruces this year, especially on the south-to-west side. If you notice needle dieback, it’s likely due to winterkill. Check where the needle attaches to the branch; if there’s a little green area next to the branch, winterkill is probably the cause. To properly assess the damage, wait until the buds break, also known as “candle.”
Meanwhile, the tick situation has been awful for my dog, Her Highness Queen Magdelin II. After a visit to the vet, I got Bravecto chewables. Fingers crossed it works. For those worried about ticks on themselves, using a Permethrin spray on your clothing can significantly reduce ticks clinging to you.
On a brighter note, we should have apples this year! If you’ve noticed leaf spotting in the past, it might be due to cedar-apple rust. Now’s the perfect time to spray your apple trees with an all-purpose orchard spray to prevent rust spores from embedding into the leaves.
If you’re planting container-grown trees or shrubs, be sure to avoid circling roots. Gently loosen the roots, especially at the bottom, so they grow outward instead of wrapping around in the hole.
Speaking of containers, if you’re setting out annuals, go for the largest containers you can. Bigger containers retain moisture longer and keep the roots cooler. Resin containers are better than terra cotta for keeping the roots moist. Just make sure all containers have drainage holes.
Lastly, check your viburnums, honeysuckles, and caraganas for aphids under the leaves. If you spot them, use a systemic insecticide or insecticidal soap to get rid of them. Sometimes a strong blast of water from a hose can knock them off. Leaving aphids on the plants can lead to deformed branch tips.