The following article was submitted by Chris Hicks, Smith County Extension Agent:
Spring is a time when many homeowners like to get out in the yard or farm and plant new ornamental shrubs, flowers, or trees. Growing plants has numerous health benefits, both physical and psychological. Even though the work of planting and growing ornamentals can be fun, there is no need in planting something that is going to cause problems, and as a result more work and money, down the road.
We often talk about planting the ‘right plant in the right spot’. Generally that discussion focuses on the location of planting. For example, the soil fertility, the amount of shade, and the local topography and drainage all affect how a plant will fare in a given situation.
Sometimes though, we may skip the first part of the ‘right plant in the right spot’ rule. That is, we need to focus on planting the right plant! Why would you plant a flower or a tree that is prone to diseases and insect damage in our area? The answer is, you probably wouldn’t if you knew that to be the case.
Certain plants just don’t do as well in Middle TN as others, and just because there are lots of them around doesn’t mean planting them is wise. A classic example is ‘Bradford’ Pear. There have been thousands of these ornamental trees planted in our area, but their weak limbs along with their invasive nature make them a bad choice for homeowners, or anyone else for that matter.
There are plenty of other examples. Leyland Cypress, Pin Oaks, and ‘Knockout Rose’ are other plants that are beautiful when they are healthy and as a result are widely planted, but all too often fall victim to disease and environmental damage.
So if the story stopped here it would be pretty depressing, here are all these plants we thought were great, but turns out have a ton of issues. Luckily, there are dozens of alternative plants which can do much better and provide even more enjoyment.
If you are interested in learning about these alternative trees, shrubs, and flowers, I hope you will join us for our May 1 Lunch and Learn as TSU Extension’s Lucas Holman discusses “Alternatives to the Usual Pest Ridden Plants.”
Lunch, which is only $5 per person, will be from 12:00-1:00 at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce and we ask that you RSVP by calling UT Extension at 615-735-2900 by April 29. I hope to see you there!
[wdca_ad id=”11484″ ]
[wdca_ad id=”11404″ ]
