Container raspberries require protection during winter

Q. I recently heard you speak and you mentioned a raspberry suitable for growing in containers on a patio.

What was the name of that compact raspberry?

A. Raspberry Shortcake produces an abundance of fruit on a thornless compact plant.

It grows about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. I have grown it in the ground at the Wisconsin State Fair We Energies Energy Park for six or more years. I have also grown it in containers.

You will need to use a weatherproof pot and provide winter protection for plants grown in containers.

Move container plantings into an unheated garage, sink the pot in a vacant part of the garden, or cover the containers with wood chips, bags of soil or other material to insulate the roots from the cold.

Q. Is there a nonchemical spray to stop fruit trees, pears, from producing fruit?

A. Florel by Monterey Lawn and Garden is a growth hormone that prevents the formation of fruit.

The active ingredient, ethephon, is used in agriculture as a ripening agent.

Timing is critical. If you spray too late, you end up with fewer but larger fruit.

You may need to order this online, as most garden centers do not carry this product.

As always, read and follow label directions.

Q. I want to renovate my front landscape. A friend recommended a landscape company and I am not sure if I should hire them or someone else. Please advise.

A. Recommendations from satisfied customers are always a good place to start. Then check listings on professional organizations’ websites. Companies that invest time and money to be involved with professional organizations are usually up to date on trends, safety issues and more.

Visit the websites of the Wisconsin Landscape Contractors Association ( findalandscaper.org), the Wisconsin Green Industry Federation ( wgif.net) and the Wisconsin Arborist Association ( waaisa.org) when looking for a landscape or tree care professional.

As you interview potential professionals, ask about their employees’ training and certifications. Make sure the company is insured and ask to see additional references.

Collect bids. When you compare them, make sure the companies are equally qualified and that they are providing the same services.

The cheapest bid may not give you the results you want and may even cost you more in the long run.