(Audio 12/21/09) Amaryllis bulbs become readily available this time of year in local nurseries, but gardeners should not plant these bulbs directly into their landscapes. Learn about the most effective way for growing amaryllis. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/28/09) Many Louisiana gardeners plant tropical plants in their landscapes, but those plants may become damaged during the winter. Listen to the guidelines for what to prune from damaged plants after a major freeze and when it would be best to prune. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 12/28/09) Wax begonias are a popular plant used during the summer, but their beautiful cousins, Rex begonias, can be purchased now to be used as indoor plants. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains how to properly care for these colorful plants with a funny name. (Runtime: 1:39)
(For Release On Or After 12/11/09) November through February is the best time to plant pecan trees. But before you decide to add a pecan tree to your landscape, you have some things to consider.
(Audio 12/14/09) Some may not believe apples can be grown in Louisiana because of our mild winters, but low-chill apple varieties can be successful. Learn which varieties of apples will produce well without undergoing very cold temperatures during the winter. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(For Release On Or After 12/18/09) A common misconception is that orchids are difficult to grow. In fact, orchids are tough, resilient plants, and most are not that challenging if you just learn what growing conditions they prefer.
(For Release On Or After 12/25/09) The oak has become a part of American culture more than many other types of trees. Oaks are a symbol of strength and durability. “Strong as an oak” is a common comparison.
(Audio 12/07/09) The cold really starts to set in during December in Louisiana, but that does not mean it is too cold to plant vegetables. There is a great selection of hardy vegetables that will flourish during the mild winter weather. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/14/09) Gardeners are sometimes confused by which winter temperatures will cause their tropical plants to become damaged or frozen. The so-called wind chill is not something gardeners should be particularly concerned about -- although covering some plants to protect them from windburn could be beneficial. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/28/09) Whether you are planning to plant shade trees, shrubs, hedges or small flowering trees, winter is the best time of year to add hardy trees and shrubs to the landscape. Learn about the advantages of planting shrubs, such as roses, during the winter months. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/14/09) Most of the plants in Louisiana landscapes will not be damaged by mild winter temperatures, but tropical plants are more susceptible to cold temperatures. Here are some options for how to protect tropical plants during the winter months. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/21/09) Gardeners often find themselves with leftover seeds after planting the necessary amount in a given area. Here are a few ideas for what to do with your extra seeds. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/21/09) Most gardeners use various forms of pesticides or fertilizers in their gardens and landscapes. Even though most solid forms of these chemicals will be safe through the winter, liquid chemicals could potentially freeze. Be sure to store your gardening chemicals in a safe and controlled environment. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/28/09) If you were among those who have been chilling tulip and hyacinth bulbs since late November, now through early January is the best time to plant them in your landscape. These bulbs usually look best when planted in groups rather than in a row. Listen for more tips on how to plant these bulbs. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/14/09) Cool-season weeds still grow during the winter in Louisiana, so gardeners even have to weed their flowerbeds and lawns this time of year. To cut down on the work, it is a good idea to use mulch or weed killers in the winter landscape. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/28/09) There are many plants used as decorations for the holidays, such as Christmas trees and poinsettias. Another popularly used plant is the Christmas cactus -- and these plants can last for many years with proper care. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 12/21/09) The poinsettia easily is the most popular Christmas season plant, but another beautiful holiday plant that is less known is the paperwhite. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains how to care for paperwhites early in their growth – by properly planting the bulbs. (Runtime: 1:57)
(For Release On Or After 12/04/09) When it comes to Christmas trees, there are two basic choices – living or artificial. Although artificial trees have their place, and manufactures are producing some startlingly realistic versions, I’m going to focus on the living types.
(Audio 12/07/09) In Louisiana, our gardens do not go completely dormant during the winter months. There are various cool-season bedding plants that can be used to give our winter landscape a splash of color. Learn why it is beneficial to plant dianthus and others during this season. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/21/09) Camellias are considered one of Louisiana’s most stunning flowering shrubs during the winter. These shrubs can produce beautiful full flowers with the right amount of proper care. Learn the best ways to take care of your camellias. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/07/09) Many Louisianans use a variety of different plants to decorate for the holidays. One blooming holiday favorite is the poinsettia. Listen for how to choose and care for these wonderful holiday plants. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/07/09) Tomatoes planted in August and September can continue to produce through mid-December. Find out what to do with your tomatoes before an impending freeze. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 12/07/09) Do you see brown patches in your lawn? Cold weather may not be causing that; it may be disease. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains what to do and what not to do when you notice brown patch disease is affecting your lawn. (Runtime: 1:36)
(Audio 12/14/09) With gardening activities slowing down, it's a good time of year to repair any damaged lawn and gardening tools. It's also important for gardening tools and equipment to be stored safely and correctly. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 12/14/09) With the cool season upon us, it’s a great time to plant vegetables like leafy greens or crispy carrots. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill mentions various vegetables you can plant and explains the right way to pick broccoli. (Runtime: 1:50)
(Audio 12/21/09) Fallen leaves should not be considered common trash because they can be very beneficial in landscapes. Find out about the many advantages creating mulch or compost will provide for your yard. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/28/09) Many trees, even some evergreens, experience a change in the color of their foliage during the cold season. This allows us to experience some beautiful colors, such as yellow, orange and red, in our winter landscapes. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 12/07/09) A Christmas tree usually is the focal part of holiday decorations. The best place to find the freshest trees is at your local Christmas tree farm. Learn what to look for when purchasing your tree this year. (Runtime: 60 seconds)