Preventing Diseases in Your Plants

Veteran gardeners know the best disease treatment is prevention.  There are some things you can do no matter what outdoor plant you are growing that make it harder for plant diseases to attack your plants.

Sanitation

The most important way to prevent plant diseases is to practice good sanitation.  Sanitize your gardening tools at the beginning of each gardening day.  Wash dirt off the tools, then wipe them with rubbing alcohol, including all the nooks and crannies and the handle.  Rinse and dry the tools well. 

Sanitation also refers to removing dead plants promptly.  Do not compost diseased plants as that will spread the disease.  Put them in the trash.  For vegetables, remove all the spent plants at the end of the season.  Keep windfall fruit picked up.  Both pests and diseases can overwinter in vegetable debris.  Keep animals out of food crops, including chickens.

Purchase From Reputable Dealers

As with anything, you get what you pay for.  Do not purchase plants and seeds unless you know the place where you are shopping has a good reputation.  Many diseases are spread by seeds, so buy only certified disease-free seeds.  Do not purchase plants that look wilted or unwell.

Rotate Plants

Tomatoes

If you grow vegetables, rotate your crops each season.  Rotate by families.  For example, if you grow tomatoes in an area one season, do not plant anything from the nightshade family in that spot for three years.  Some people do not have a big enough garden to effectively do this, but if you can, rotate your crops.

If you have a plant die, do not put another plant of the same or closely related species in that spot until you are sure the disease is not soil borne.  For example, if a peach tree dies of cotton root rot, planting another susceptible tree such as another fruit or nut tree, ash, cottonwood, elms, figs, or a sycamore tree will probably result in the death of that tree, too.  Plant a tree that is resistant or immune to cotton root rot instead.

Plant At Ideal Time

Plant different plants at the best time to maximize their potential.  If possible, plant bare root plants in late fall or early spring so they can become established before the summer heat.  While you can plant a container grown plant at any time of the year, it is better to plant them in the fall so their roots can get established before the cold.

Plant Properly

When you plant something, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and a foot deeper.  Do not put fertilizer in the bottom of the hole because it will burn the tiny root hairs off the roots.  These are the part of the root that takes in water.  To plant your tree or shrub, have someone hold the tree at ground level.  Fill in the dirt from the hole under and around the tree to make it stand up straight.  Water to settle the soil.  Fill more soil into the hole until full.  Water and repeat until the soil does not sink any more after watering it.

Mulch

Mulch helps stabilize soil temperature and soil moisture.  It blocks weeds and helps protect trees and shrubs from lawn mower and string trimmers.  The mulch should ideally be three inches deep.  Leave a three-inch zone around the trunk free of mulch, then put the mulch from there to the edge of the dripline.  As the tree grows, the mulch should be extended with it.  You can use a low growing ground cover like Virginia creeper or creeping phlox instead of mulch, but don’t leave bare ground under the tree.  Mulch helps keep soil borne diseases from spreading by putting a layer between the plant foliage and the soil.

Don’t Overcrowd Plants

When installing a new landscape, the temptation is to plant things close together, so the landscape looks fully grown now.  The problem is that when the plants grow, they are too close together.  Air cannot circulate around them, so the foliage doesn’t dry after a rain, setting them up for a fungal problem.  The neighboring plants compete for light, water, and nutrients.  The plants are not able to grow to their potential.

Water Properly

Watering sounds easy enough, but some watering practices increase the chance your plants will get fungal infections, soil borne diseases, and other problems.  Most ornamental perennials need about an inch of water a week.  In hot climates, they may need to be watered twice a week.  Watering deeply once or twice a week is preferable to watering a little every day.  Plants that are watered deeply grow good roots that reach down into the soil.  Not only does this let the plants reach water that is deeper in the soil, it helps stabilize the plant so it doesn’t blow over as readily.

When you water, try to get the water in the root zone without getting the plant wet.  Fungal infections need about eight hours of wetness to take hold.  If you do not get the foliage wet, it makes a fungal infection less likely.

Drip irrigation is the gold standard for watering, but a soaker hose works, too.  Always water before ten o’clock in the morning.  This leaves the whole day for wind and sun to dry any water you might get on your plant.  If you do have to use overhead sprinklers or a water hose, make sure the area where you water is mulched.  This keeps soil with fungal spores from being splashed onto the foliage of your plant, where it can cause a problem. 

In the winter, plants need less water.  You do still need to water them, however.  Watering early in the day will give the water time to soak in before it gets freezing at night. 

Don’t Overfertilize

Most native plants do not need much fertilizer.  They have evolved to live in the soil in your area.  Plants from elsewhere, fruit trees, nut trees, and vegetables need fertilizing.  When fertilizing, follow the directions on the label of the fertilizer.  Many people feel that if a little fertilizer is good, more is better.  This just isn’t true.

Too much fertilizer can burn your plants and can even kill them.  Too much nitrogen encourages plants to put on lots of new growth.  Many pests and diseases love tender new growth.  In addition, too much new growth can make it hard for the roots to bring up enough water for the plant’s needs.  Fertilizing too near cold weather means all that new growth will freeze and die back, potentially injuring the plant.

Remove Diseased Plants Promptly

Many plant diseases are contagious.  The best way to protect your plants is to promptly treat any plant disease that is treatable.  If the disease is too severe or is viral, pull the plant up and discard it in the trash.  Do not compost diseased plants or you will spread the disease when you spread the compost.

Plants that are native to your region have usually developed resistance or immunity to the diseases that frequent the area.  They are usually able to tolerate common pests in the area, too.

Ask Question

TN Nursery staff are happy to answer any gardening questions you may have.  Give us a call at 931.692.7325 and we will help you find the perfect plant.

Peach Fruit Tree - TN Nursery

Peach Fruit Tree 3-4'

Peach trees are known for their fragrant pink blossoms in spring. They produce sweet and juicy, round or slightly flattened, fuzzy-skinned fruit in various colors, such as yellow or white. Incorporating these into landscaping offers many benefits beyond their produce. They bring beauty, seasonal interest, edible yields, contributions to biodiversity, and a touch of nostalgia to outdoor spaces. A Peach Fruit Tree is a colorful and aromatic plant that offers several benefits to your land. It can benefit your neighbors and the local wildlife months after planting. Add Color to Your Home With The Peach Fruit Tree (Prunus persica) The produce helps transform your land into a sea of orange or some variation relatively quickly. They come from will create pink flowers that add even more variety wherever they are planted. One of the primary benefits of buying this type is that it will create seeds on its own after reaching maturity. However, it is essential to note that reaching that stage of life can take two or three years. Of course, your patience will be well rewarded as a single plant can turn into multiple ones, which will help maximize the value you get for your money. Enjoy The Amazing Aroma Of Peach Fruit Trees Planting any type that bears fruit can create a fragrant smell that everyone can enjoy outside. Furthermore, the fact that you have them on your property that bear anything edible will likely improve its overall market value. In most cases, your neighbors will also see the value of their properties increase. Animals Love The Peach Fruit Tree Peach Fruit Tree generally serves as shelter or food for various insects and animals. Although you will likely see birds, pollinators, and other creatures on your property, they will likely be able to do minor damage. This is because this item is toxic to many different types of animals, which means you can enjoy nature without worrying about replacing what you took so long to cultivate for yourself. Where do peach trees grow best? Peach trees grow well in well-drained soils, areas that receive full sun, and in a moderate climate. They need a cold winter so as to dormant well and warm springs to bloom. Several varieties are commonly grown in areas of the USDA zones 5-9.  In which season does peach grow?  There are 700+ varieties of peaches, but most produce and harvest them between late spring and summer. The flowers are in flower in early spring, the fruits set once the heat has hit.  For how long do peaches take to ripen while still on the tree?  On average, peaches take between 2 and 4 months to develop after flowering is evident on the tree. The time that varies depends on the climate in the particular region, and other factors of the growing of the grapes. That's when you look for a slight softness and that rich, deep color; then, they are ready to be harvested.  Can I plant a peach tree near the house?  When planting a peach tree, it is recommended that you plant it about 10-20 ft away from your home so you do not disturb the roots in searching for space while at the same time avoiding construction structures. It also brings about proper space that enhances proper airing to counter-check pests and disease outbreaks.  What are two interesting facts about peach?  On the one hand, peach is destined to be presented for eternal life and immortality because it's an old fruit. Also, they have Vitamin A and C so these fruits are healthy.

Sycamore Tree - TN Nursery

Sycamore Tree

The majestic Sycamore tree, known scientifically as Platanus occidentalis, is an iconic and awe-inspiring presence in the natural landscape of North America. Standing as a testament to the time and enduring through the seasons, the trees symbolize resilience, grandeur, and natural beauty. Add Year-Round Interest to Your Yard with Sycamore Tree (Platanus occidentalis) A sycamore tree can add year-round interest to your yard in several ways. Their distinctive bark peels off in sections, exposing a multi-hued pattern of brown, green, and white. No matter the season, this bark feature always turns heads. These trees have an exciting winter activity: they make seed balls. These globular clusters adorn the tree's barren branches with visual appeal and textural variety. As they age, their tall, pyramidal crowns change to rounded, irregular shapes supported by branches with vast diameters. Create Picturesque Silhouettes Against the Sky With Sycamore Tree These trees are perfect for making dramatic skyline silhouettes because of their distinctive branching structure and tall, upright growth habit. Their branches arch upward and outward, creating a unique, complex pattern that catches the eye as it meets the horizon. These lace-like silhouettes become even more artistic and dramatic during the winter after the leaves drop. Design Majestic Canopies and Structure With Sycamore Tree It is a good choice for creating natural canopies because of their erect, pyramidal crowns when young and rounded, uneven forms as they grow. They have many branches with a big diameter; however, the plant may seem unruly and ugly if the lowest branches are too close to the ground. Removing unnecessary branches from lower branches allows the tree to grow upward rather than outward. Sycamore Trees Can Get 75 To 100 Feet Tall In the autumn, chlorophyll breakdown causes a chemical reaction that causes the leaves on Sycamore Trees to shift color. The leaves cease photosynthesis in response to the changing light and temperature patterns. This reduces or halts the production of chlorophyll, which makes the green hue fade and exposes other hues. As autumn approaches, the leaves' yellow carotenoids come into view, imparting their vibrant hues. In addition to color-changing leaves, these plants bloom colorful, small, spherical clusters of flowers in April and May. Some variants bloom flowers in their sixth to seventh year of growth. The male and female flowers are usually yellow or red. What Is Unique About The Sycamore Tree The sycamore tree has a smooth and clean light grey outer surface, which has an uneven splotched brown hue when scraped off. This is a great tree that can withstand a lot of different climate conditions and is typically used for purposes of shading and planting beautification.  What are the benefits of the sycamore tree?  The sycamore tree has a large crown that will offer good shade and its leaves also help filter pollutants within the air. They are also crucial in checking soil erosion and are homes to birds and other small mammals.  What does a sycamore tree symbolize?  The sycamore tree might be considered symbolizing strength, protection, and eternity because of the large size and long life of this tree. It is also associated with growth and survival in many cultures due to characteristics it has in hardship conditions.  What Is The Lifespan Of A Sycamore Tree  They are long-living trees with average ages of between 200 and 600 years. If looked after and given the right conditions, they can live on and grow for very many years.  What are some interesting facts about sycamore trees?  Sycamore trees are among the most enormous deciduous trees that may grow to be between a hundred and a hundred and thirty feet tall. They have a white and green mottled outer skin that can easily be scratched off, exposing a brown texture.

Virginia Creeper - TN Nursery

Virginia Creeper

Virginia Creeper plant is a vining favorite known for its striking five-lobed leaves and ability to climb and cover walls and structures, turning vibrant shades of red in the fall. It is a versatile and attractive plant with numerous benefits when incorporated into landscaping projects. It has become famous for enhancing outdoor spaces with its vibrancy.  Virginia Creeper is part of the grape family. It gains its name from one of the native areas where it grows. It is a deciduous climber that can extend and climb a trellis well in the wild. The Leaves Of Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) Typically, five leaflets combine to make up each set of leaves. Occasionally, however, it can be found with three or seven leaflets. Either way, they're joined on the leafstalk's central point and grow from one to eight inches. They have a bright green appearance in summer, then turn into brilliant shades of red and purple in autumn. Each leaflet has a toothed margin, and the seedlings come with heart-shaped leaves. Late spring brings with it inconspicuous flower clusters. They brighten this plant with their greenish, small appearance. However, they only become more noticeable once they turn into berries. The Berries Of The Virginia Creeper Berries grow on it in the late summer or early fall. These complex, small berries are purplish-black and typically don't get larger than 1/4 inch in diameter. Although the berries are not meant for humans, they offer an excellent food source to birds. In fact, due to the long lifespan of the berries, they become a vital source of winter food for a wide array of birds. Virginia Creeper Will Climb As Tall As You Want While it's true that Virginia Creeper can grow to astronomical heights in the wild, that's not going to happen when you plant them around your home. Instead, their growth rate is limited by the structure that they're given to grow on. In other words, if you want them to grow up to only three feet, give them something three feet tall to climb. On the other hand, if you want them to soar up to 40 feet, you'll need to provide them with something that tall to climb. This height control method is a fantastic way to end up with them that do precisely what you want them to do. Something that helps set creepers apart is that they will not damage your building. Therefore, these deciduous climbers will work great in your yard. Give Your Outdoor Space Vertical Interest With Virginia Creeper Where does Virginia creeper grow best? Virginia creeper is adapted to a wide range of climate conditions but thrives well in well-drained, partial-shade to full-sun areas. It is suitable for planting on walls, fences, and along trellises.  What is the lifespan of a Virginia creeper Virginia Creeper is an entender evergreen vine that requires little attention and can live for decades if correctly maintained. It is a fast-growing plant and can, therefore, be used for landscaping and as ground cover vegetation.  What are some interesting facts about the Virginia creeper Virginia creeper is grown for its brilliant scarlet color during the autumn, which gives character to the garden.  Do Virginia creepers lose their leaves Virginia creeper is a deciduous vine, which means that it sheds its leaves during the last quarter of the year.  How long do Virginia creepers take to grow Virginia creeper is a very fast-growing vine of its family and can reach a height of 3 to 5 feet per year, more so when the conditions are favorable. In a few years, it can expand over vast areas, thus making it ideal for the development of green walls or as a ground cover.

Creeping Phlox - TN Nursery

Creeping Phlox

The Creeping Phlox is a low-growing perennial plant with small, vibrant pink flowers that form a dense carpet-like display in spring. It forms a beautiful, lush pink carpet array of blooms and is an excellent spreading groundcover plant that will control weeds and overgrowth near hillsides and banks you can not maintain. Due to its numerous benefits and aesthetic appeal, it is a popular and versatile plant used in landscaping.  The creeping phlox is a solid option for those who want to add gorgeous color to their yard. This plant, also known as the mountain type, moss type, and moss pink, is native to the central and eastern United States, and its beauty makes it a popular option for gardens around the globe. What are the benefits of adding this vibrant plant to your yard or garden? Creeping Phlox (Phlox stolonifera) Has Brilliant Colors Creeping Phlox's flowers are stunning, with colors ranging from pale blue, white, and pink to bright violet. Each flower has five hardy petals, but some have six petals. The plants bloom through the spring and summer, providing lasting color for approximately one month. As an evergreen perennial, the plant remains green throughout the year. It can brighten up an otherwise dull, dreary yard in the peak of the cold weather season. Creeping Phlox Is A Filler Plant This plant grows five inches tall and up to 13 inches in diameter. In addition to the expanse of a single plant, the plant proliferates. Many use its beauty as an alternative to grass or a filler in their more extensive gardens. Because of its short height, it does not need to be cut back like grass and other ground cover. Weeds increase and can make your yard look poorly maintained in a matter of weeks. The plant is dense with tightly clustered leaves. When in bloom, the flowers blanket the tops of the plants. Because of its unique traits, the plant prevents or minimizes weed growth. As a result, your gardens can continue to look fabulous without needing to devote hours of your valuable time to pulling weeds regularly. Creeping Phlox Helps With Soil Erosion Prevention  Grass generally only thrives on ledges and steep banks, making your grounds look barren and subject to erosion. The creeping phlox, however, thrives in these areas. Its presence can dramatically reduce the damaging effects of erosion while enhancing aesthetics. It is well-suited for providing immediate and long-term benefits to your property. Where to plant creeping phlox It thrives in drainage and bright light. It wants somewhere it'll spread easily and turn into a carpet in spring.  Is creeping phlox a shade or sun plant?  To flower, creeping phlox needs full sun, six hours or so. The plant can tolerate shade but not for long because it will hurt its growth.  How long does creeping phlox last Creeping phlox is a perennial that returns every year. It blooms for 2-4 weeks in the spring and it's evergreen so you can have it for year round ground cover.  Does creeping phlox grow fast?  Creeping phlox starts quickly and spreads into a mound of foliage and flowers. When properly managed and under the right conditions, it can cover a lot of land in just a few seasons.  How to maintain creeping phlox Creeping phlox is easy-care, but it does need to be pruned once the flowers are faded. Install it in moist place and water it in summer.

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