Fertilizer may be wisteria’s salvation

Q: Our wisteria has not bloomed since we planted four years ago. What can I do to get blooms? – Arlene, Ledyard, Conn.

A: Wisteria can take up to seven years before blooming. You can speed the process by adding a high middle number fertilizer like 5-10-10. Put a half dozen holes about 2 feet from the trunk that go done a foot. Place the fertilizer in the holes. Cutting the ends will help strengthen the ranches.

Q: We have four boxwood. One of them is yellowing. It is on the northwest corner. We lost one of them this past year. What do you think? – Marlene, Taylorville, Ill.

A: You should check for scale or spider mites. Since the beginning of this year, your zone is now 6. This means more plants like box can be grown in your area. Because the plants are vulnerable to cold winds, I suspect they are suffering winter damage. Move the yellowed box to an area where they will have sun at least a half day. Spider mite or scale can be treated out of doors with malathion. Follow directions on the label, if needed.

Q: I have been trying to get some climbing roses to grow on my arching trellis without success. They simply die off in the winter. Can you recommend some good climbers? – Scott, Dunbar, W.V.

A: If you can find a Pillar rose developed by Brownell, it is hardy to 16 below zero. An easier find would be New Dawn climbers and Early Dawn. I would plant two roses. One on each end of the trellis and tie them on with cotton rope. Do not use liquid fertilizer to promote growth. You are better served with all natural aged manure. Cultivate the manure into the soil in late fall. Roses can be prolific, if treated right.

Q: When can I move Rosa rugosa? – Susan, Newport

A: All deciduous shrubs should be transplanted in the spring and fall, while they are defoliated. However, Rosa rugosa is the hardiest plant around your area. I would take a chance on a cool night with a section of the root and stems but not the entire plant in the summer evening.