Care and How-To - Deciduous
-
Suckers are vigorous upright growing stems that form at the base of a tree or from the root system causing stems to appear inches or feet from the base of the trunk. They are problematic because they can reduce flowering and fruiting, alter the form of the tree, harbor pests and diseases, and look unsightly.
Learn about what causes suckers to form and how they can be managed in the home landscape.
-
Shedding, peeling, or splitting bark on trees in the landscape can be a concerning sight.
Understanding what is causing the bark loss is an important first step to preventing further damage.
-
Hardwood cuttings is a propagation method done while the plant is dormant from the shoots that developed during the previous growing season. Learn more about this type of vegetative propagation if you want to propagate any trees, shrubs, or vines in the home landscape.
-
Several factors cause branch dieback on trees. Correctly diagnosing the problem(s) is the first step in managing an unhealthy tree. Below are some common causes of branch dieback on trees in the landscape. Use this guide to evaluate your tree and determine the likely cause of the branch dieback.
-
Shrubs enhance landscapes with beauty and function. Proper pruning is essential but is sometimes overlooked. Learn how to overgrown shrubs to get them back to their former glory.
-
Lilacs are suffering from Pseudocercospora leaf spots and other diseases due to humidity and stress. Fungicides are not warranted. Good pruning and care are key to managing these issues.
-
The best time to rejuvenate large, overgrown shrubs is late winter or early spring (March or early April)
-
There are many options for removing tree stumps, including grinding, natural decay, or digging. They can also be left for wildlife or turned into garden sculptures. Learn all about stump removal below.
-
Black walnut (Juglans nigra) is a valuable tree in Iowa. Harvest in late September, hull immediately, dry for 2-3 weeks, and store kernels in the freezer.
-
Storms can damage trees through wind, ice, and snow. Proper maintenance reduces risk, while damaged trees need careful evaluation and prompt action. Many times, trees are best replaced.
-
This page highlights shade tree options well-suited for the Iowa landscape. While it doesn't include every possibility, this list provides descriptions of many wonderful species and cultivars proven to be good options for many Iowa homeowners.
-
Occasionally the need arises to move trees within the home landscape. Follow these tips to move small, young trees successfully.
-
A shrub that flowers in winter? That sounds unlikely but witch hazels do just that - even in Iowa! Witch hazels (Hamamelis) are a group of shrubs that typically have the first (or last depending on what you are growing) blooms of the season in the garden.
-
How to propagate deciduous shrubs and trees using softwood cuttings. Discover timing, techniques, and care tips for successful rooting.
-
Some individuals consider shady sites to be problem areas in the home landscape. However, shady areas actually provide opportunities for home gardeners. Wise plant selection can turn a shady site into an attractive landscape area. A number of trees and shrubs can be successfully grown in partial shade. (Partially shaded sites receive 3 to 4 hours of direct sun but are in shade the rest of the day.)
Selecting and planting shade tolerant trees and shrubs, along with suitable annuals and perennials, can transform bare shady areas into attractive landscape sites. Below is a list and brief description of trees and shrubs adapted to partial shade.
-
Consistent and proper care during the establishment period is the most important thing you can do to succeed with your new tree.
Newly-planted trees need active and frequent care during the entire establishment period. Good cultural practices during this period help reduce young trees become healthy, long-term additions to the landscape.
-
February and March is the best time to prune most trees and shrubs in Iowa. The absence of foliage at this time of year gives you a clear view of the tree and allows the selection and removal of appropriate branches. Also, when pruned in the late dormant season the walling-off, compartmentalization, or sealing of wounds can begin as soon as growth starts in the spring giving the tree the most time to recover from the pruning cut.
Iowa State University has many resources available to help with pruning all your woody plants.
-
Hydrangeas, with their large, elegant flowers, are great for home landscapes and cut flowers. New cultivars offer diverse colors and shapes, suitable for Iowa.
-
When planting in alkaline or high-pH soil, it's important to select a tree or shrub that is tolerant of soil pH above 7.0.
-
Serviceberries are shrubs or small trees that offer homeowners multiple seasons of interest. Their bright white flowers are one of the first harbingers of