Frequently Asked Questions -

You can count on the staff at Cole Gardens to help you with your gardening questions. From time to time we will post questions that come up seasonally. Of course you can always send an e-mail with any questions.

Q: I have a clematis vine that hasn't flowered for the past two years. What should I do? What is the proper time to prune clematis vines?

A: How much you should prune a clematis depends on when the plant flowers. Those that bloom from mid-June to fall should be pruned back to 12 or 18 inches (30 or 46 cm) starting in their second spring, just as the buds begin to swell. This may seem rather drastic, but summer-bloomers flower only on the current year's growth, so removing the previous year's wood results in more flowers on a stockier plant.

Other clematis' bloom between early May and mid-June on old growth, and often again in the fall on new growth. In order to encourage a good display in both seasons, prune this type of clematis lightly in early spring, removing only stems that are obviously dead, and cutting back any weak or unruly ones.

If you aren't sure which type of clematis you have, let the vine grow freely for a year or two while you observe its blooming and growth patterns.

Q & A Unplanted Bulbs

Q-  I have some tulip bulbs. Crocus and daffodils that I didn't have time to plant last fall.  I left them in a bag in the basement; are they still good?  Will they flower if  I plant them this spring?

A-  Leo Van Tol with Van Eeden Brothers, A dutch bulb grower in Holland replys:
All bulbs need a period of cold, or wintering, in order to flower properly.  Depending on how they were stored, you still might be able to get modest results.  If possible, try planting them.  So far, here in New England, we have had a mild January.  Give it a try even into March.  Ideally, bulbs need about 10-12 weeks of sub 40 temperatures.  Providing the bulbs are still good, that is firm to the touch, consider  storing them in the refrigerator at about 40-45 degrees.  Plant them in about 6-8 weeks.  The results from these bulbs will be squat plants and weak blooms.  Feed them heavily during the foliage growth.  Lift and divide during the summer, saving the smaller offsets.  Replant these in the fall and again, feed well.

Q & A Uncovering Beds & Planting

Q- When can I uncover my tender woody plants and perennials?  Also, when is it safe to plant bedding plants such as impatiens and geraniums?

A - It is always a good idea to wait until the danger of frost has passed.   This will vary from year to year and of course, by location.  Shrubs and ornamental trees that have been kept under wraps can usually be uncovered two-three weeks before last frost warnings.  If an unusual cold snap is forecasted, simply cover with a blanket or bedsheet the night before.

Perennial beds should be cleared of debris and excess mulch materials as soon as the soil has had a chance to thaw and dry.  Working in the mud and muck of early spring can damage the soil structure.  However, cleaning out the debris will help to eliminate disease and pest problems in your garden beds.  As far as tender annuals are concerned,  I would hold to the last frost date.  Early planted annuals risk damage from snap frosts.  Proper rooting and development will occur naturally once the soil has warmed.

Q & A Tomatoes from seed

Q - I am interested in starting tomato plants from seed and would like to get an early start on my harvest.  When should I start indoor seedlings?

A - Seed packets are packed with helpful tips.  Printed on the back of most is important cultural information, such as plant characteristics, planting instructions, plant care and harvest facts.  For example, Beefmaster tomato variety should be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost, and seeds will germinate in about 7-14 days.  After all danger of frost has passed, seedlings should be planted in full sun in rows 3-4 feet apart, with plants spaced 30-48 inches apart.  To avoid transplant shock with tomatoes, start seeds in individual peat pots that can be planted directly into the garden bed.  To find the last frost date for your area or to learn more about growing tomatoes, visit our website @ onlinegardener.com it's full of helpful information.