August questions for the Plant Man

Steve Kawaratani

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do

not expect to sit.”

-- NELSON HENDERSON

“To leave the world a little better by a garden patch is the

meaning of success.”

-- RALPH WALDO EMERSON

Midway through summer has found warmer temperatures, clean water

and incessant traffic in our fair village. Sunny afternoons guarantee

pest activity, particularly turf eating insects and spider mites on

fuchsia, roses, and many subtropical plants. Be vigilant and keep the

horticultural oil at the ready.

Monthly fertilizer application to trees, shrubs, groundcover, and

turf is essential due to increased watering. And don’t forget to feed

your houseplants and orchids, silent but hungry members of the

household. Your August questions to the Plant Man included:

Q: Why are some trees designated Heritage Trees in Laguna?

A: Heritage Tree status is granted by Laguna Beach if an applicant

can make certain justifications for a candidate tree. These may

include historical significance, specimen quality, or other reasons

that make the tree special to the city. As an added bonus, city

gardeners will trim the tree. Screening out your nasty neighbor will

likely not qualify.

Q: What is coastal sage scrub?

A: The plants that create the native habitat on our beautiful

hills comprise this community. Toyon, lemonade berry and sages are

just a few of the plants that delight not only hikers, but are home

to birds, rabbits, deer and coyotes.

Q: Is a birdbath practical in gardens?

A: Not only is it practical, but also your feathered friends will

thank you. Provide a “safety zone” of at least 10 feet from plantings

to provide some protection from cats, and clean the basin bi-weekly.

Q: I have a two-story, wood-shingle home with the eaves on the

second story extending out about 3 feet. Four years ago, I planted a

trumpet vine on the corner to soften the appearance. It has grown all

the way up to the top of the house and along the side attaching

itself with tendrils, and it looks great. Is this destructive to the

structure?

A: Vines have a habit of twining between and under shingles,

eventually creating fairly major damage. Vines also collect moisture

than can lead to water damage to wooden members. I recommend

attaching vines to stainless steel cables, adjacent to the structure,

and trimming the plants away from siding.

Q: The tomatoes I planted back in April are slowing down. Is there

time to plant another crop?

A: Absolutely. I would recommend a cool-summer tomato like “Early

Girl” or a cherry tomato, because they will produce fruit faster.

Q: My soil appears dry and tired. Will adding fertilizer help?

A: Fertilizer will replenish necessary, essential elements for

plant growth, but to restore humus and improve the texture of the

soil, organic matter must be added as well.

Q: How can I save water in my garden?

A: The best way to save water is to apply mulch around trees and

shrubs and between garden rows.

We are so fortunate to live in Laguna. Sparkling ocean, dramatic

hillsides, and incredible architecture, from cottage to contemporary,

grace our village. Our shady, tree-lined neighborhoods were meant to

be walked, with time spent chatting with neighbors. In the big

picture, what’s not to like about our home? See you next time.

* STEVE KAWARATANI is the owner of Landscapes by Laguna Nursery,

1278 Glenneyre, No. 49, in Laguna Beach. He is married to local

artist, Catharine Cooper, and has two cats. He can be reached at

(949) 497-2438 or e-mail to landscapes@ln.coxatwork.com.