(Distributed 02/11/10) Growing roses in Louisiana is a challenge for home gardeners. A major problem in the enjoyment of landscape roses is disease – primarily blackspot and powdery mildew – brought on by our environmental conditions. Heat and humidity have an adverse affect on many rose varieties that we grow in Louisiana.

(Distributed 02/05/10) Flowering trees add considerable color and beauty to our landscapes during the late winter and early spring months. Many of these trees that flower at this time of the year can be considered low maintenance compared to the amount of joy we get from them.

(Distributed 01/29/10) Landscape beds, parking lots and construction activities around trees are all possible without harming the trees if you understand where the tree roots are and what they need to survive. Louisiana celebrated Arbor Day earlier in January, and now is a good time of the year to be reminded about tree care in landscape beds, parking lots and construction sites.

(Distributed 01/25/10) Iron chlorosis is a common and sometimes serious problem in landscape plants across Louisiana.

(Distributed 01/15/10) Mulching is a great sustainable landscape practice when done correctly. The new year is a good time to review the use of mulch in the landscape and how to apply it properly to achieve the maximum benefit.

(Distributed 01/11/10) “Selecting the right plant for the right place” is a frequently mentioned phrase in many of our home horticulture educational presentations. How very important it is. When planning new landscape areas or renovating old landscape areas, you need to consider many factors, including gardening style.

(Distributed 12/25/09) Camellias are part of our Southern gardening heritage. A few well-placed specimens will brighten up your landscape during the winter when few other shrubs are blooming.

(Distributed 12/18/09) Many landscape trees are planted from fall through the winter in Louisiana. Homeowners need to be aware of some of the common mistakes made in planting, establishment and follow-up care of trees.

(Distributed 12/11/09) Sasanquas are one of our most popular flowering shrubs for the late fall through early spring months. They go by the scientific names of Camellia sasanqua.

(Distributed 03/02/09) Ground covers are low-growing plants other than turfgrasses. Typically, they are perennial, evergreen plants with sprawling or spreading habits. They generally are 1 foot or shorter, but taller plants are used occasionally. Ground covers are considered attractive, low-maintenance landscape options.