Q: What’s the difference between a tuber and a bulb?A: Each functions as a storage organ, so they are similar in some ways. A tuber, however, just stores nutrients, whereas a bulb is a self-contained plant. Some are heartier than others: some can stay in the ground, some must be dug up, although all are considered perennials. Dahlias are tubers; irises are rhizomes; and gladiolus are corms. Whichever you decide on, remember: choose a large, plump bulb or tuber -- the larger the storage organ, generally the larger the bloom!
Q: I want to plant clematis to climb a trellis in my garden. I have only seen the variety that blooms in the spring. Can you get them to bloom all season?
A: No, but you can plant three varieties: spring bloomers, midseason bloomers and late-season bloomers. That way, new blooms will appear all year long.
Q: Is there any type of ornamental grass that will thrive in the shade?
A: Yes, there are: for instance, fountain grass (Pennisetum), pampas grass (Cortaderia), lilyturf (Liriope) and golden hakonech loa (Hakonechloa). The main thing to keep in mind is that you just need to water them less often when they're growing in the shade than when they're in the sun.
Q: Is it really important to deadhead impatiens? If so, what is the proper way to do it?
A: Yes, it's important if you want them to flower longer and fuller. To deadhead, simply pull off the spent flowers with your fingers; if they get leggy, however, trim them with shears.
DIY Fast Fact: To clean up terra-cotta pots and saucers, Linda Cobb, the Queen of Clean ® recommends soaking them in a solution of nine parts warm water and one part chlorine bleach, scrubbing lightly with a wire brush, and then rinsing and allowing them to dry before adding new plants.
