Q: When do I mulch and how much should I put down?

A: Hardwood mulch is an organic material that breaks down over time. Re-mulching is needed every year, best in the Spring or Fall. Apply at a depth of 1-2", but no more than 3". Too much mulch can harm the plants.

 

 

Q: Does applying new mulch to beds bring in termites and other insects?

A: The heat generated from the composting process of mulch destroys any living insect or larvae. Also, a thin layer of mulch is normally not the natural home for termites. As long as you are using a processed mulch product from a reputable company, there should be no problems. Avoid any FREE mulch from tree trimming companies, as this mulch generally is not processed and may have diseases or insects from the dead trees they removed.

 

 

Q: It's spring, why are some of my plants not leafing out with the others....are they dead?

A: Just like people, all plants are not the same and they have different growth habits. Some plants flower or leaf out very early in spring, while there are others that flower and leaf out at a later time. This also includes perennials and ornamental grasses. This is normal....but if no new growth appears on the plant by the end of May, that particular plant should be evaluated.

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Q: Why are the leaves on my plants wilting and dropping off, it's not Fall? Are they dead?

A: High temperatures during the growing season, transplant shock, and the need for increased watering will stress out the plants. Leaves may wilt or drop temporarily. To check if a plant has died, scratch the branch below the surface of the bark. If the wood is green, it is still living; if brown, the branch is dead. If the plants have green buds, it is still alive. These symptoms can also occur with both over and under watering (see watering instructions).

 

 

Q: Why are weeds in my new beds?

A: Weed seeds are everywhere, dispersed from the wind, birds, etc. When soil is being moved around, it helps the seeds germinate, thus creating weeds. No soil or mulch is naturally sterile. Weeds can be controlled by using a pre and post emergent or pulling manually. Pre-emergents will kill a majority of weed seeds before they emerge. Post-emergents kill weeds that are already growing. READ THE LABELS when applying chemicals.

 

 

Q: Do I need to apply a special plant food to make my pink flowering Hydrangea flower blue?

A: Yes, some Hydrangeas require a plant food for acid loving plants to change the pink flowers to shades of blue. This type of plant food also helps the growth for Hollies, Azaleas, and Rhododendrons too.

 

 

Q: When do I remove tree stakes?

A: Remove the tree stakes no earlier than one year after installation, but no longer than 2 years.

 

 

Q: I have mushrooms and fungus growing in the mulch beds, what do I do?

A: Mushrooms grow when there is a lot of moisture. They will die when the soil dries out. The fungus is natural, because the mulch is highly organic. You can remove the area of fungus or gently rake your mulch.

 

 

Q: I have dead plants. Is there a warranty for the plants? If so, for how long?

A: The plants are guaranteed for one year and a one-time replacement, from their installation date. The dead plant is only to be removed by Blendon Gardens, for it to be covered under the warranty. Refer to the warranty information sheet your designer gave you for the specifics. You can also visit our website at www.blendongardens.com or call our office at (614) 840-0500.