NEWS for North Dakotans
Agriculture Communication, North Dakota State
University
7 Morrill Hall, Fargo, ND 58105-5665
April 9, 1998
Ron Smith, Extension Horticulturist
North Dakota State University
Q. I have a Keepsake azalea and could you possibly send me some information on how to care for it after it is done blooming. Also could I have information on caring for a poinsettia? Thank you. (Redfield, S.D.)
A. The term Keepsake azalea has no botanical meaning to me. It is likely a hybrid between Rhododendron obtusum and R. simsii.
These plants all require acid soil and water to thrive. I strongly suggest using rainwater, snowmelt or distilled water. They will last only one season if kept indoors; indefinitely if summered outside.
After the danger of frost is past, sink the pots into the sphagnum-peat-enriched soil on the north side of the house, mist with distilled water on hot, dry or windy days, and bring in before the first fall frost.
Q. We enjoy and learn a lot from your column.
I have a beautiful Peace Lily. It no longer blooms. I think it is pot-bound, as it is so thick. How might one start a new plant? (Tripp, S.D.)
A. Your Peace Lily would definitely benefit from an annual repotting and/or division at this time of year. Once knocked out of the pot, the lines for natural division would be obvious.
Thank you for the kind words about the column.
Q. I am interested in some varieties of strawberries for this area that can tolerate our growing conditions. What do you suggest? (Minot, N.D.)
A. There are a number of strawberries that can successfully be grown in North Dakota, such as Honeoye, Gloosecap and Redcoat. NDSU Extension Service publication H-16, "Strawberries," is enclosed for further information. Others may obtain this publication from any county office of the NDSU Extension Service, or by calling the Ag Communication Distribution Center at NDSU, (701) 231-7882.
Q. How long does it take blueberries, Juneberries and grapes to bear fruit? (Devils Lake, N.D.)
A. Blueberries can only be grown with Herculean effort in North Dakota. I am sure there are a few devoted gardeners who have succeeded, but it is not worth the effort and expense. Generally, they begin producing after two to three years.
Juneberries are the most logical small fruit to grow from your selection. Mine started producing after three years, but the birds get them all as they ripen.
Grapes also require about three years before any production can come off to any degree. Beta, Canadice and King of the North are the most dependable cultivars to try. All are good for making jams, jellies and wine (or grape juice). Others can be grown, but generally require extra protection for survival and production.
Q. My schefflera is getting brown spots on the leaves and before long the leaves drop off. The plant is still growing. What can you suggest? (Fargo, N.D.)
A. Your plant is called the Queensland umbrella or Schefflera actinophylla. They can be harmed by overwatering—either too much or too frequently. Overwatering causes root rot followed by premature leaf drop. A leaf spot disease called cercospora may cause pinpoint swellings on the underside of leaves, but was not observed on your sample.
I would suggest repotting the plant and checking the roots for any signs of decay (soft and mushy). You can shake off or rinse away the soil to check. Cut off unhealthy portions and trim away any circling or damaged roots. A clean cut on roots will stimulate new roots to form. Propagation is possible only from seed or plant division. If several stems are evident at the soil surface, gently pull apart plant sections and use a sharp knife to cut apart entangled roots.
Use any good potting compost to replant and make sure there is adequate drainage. Water well initially, but use care thereafter to let soil dry out between waterings. Fertilize from March to September with a liquid type. Also, because of the lowered volume of roots after pruning, it is advisable to prune back or thin excess plant stems.
While moving into warmer weather will be beneficial for the plant this spring, use care next winter not to let temperatures fall below 55 F, which can promote root rot and additional leaf drop.
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Source: Ron Smith (701) 231-8161
Editor: Barry Brissman (701) 231-7866