THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, August 28, 1994 TAG: 9408260056
SECTION: HOME PAGE: G1 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY ROBERT STIFFLER, GARDENING COLUMNIST
LENGTH: Short : 43 lines
IT'S LATE summer, and plants are showing the stress they've been under the last several months.
During the June drought, many plants suffered at the expense of nearby trees, which compete for water and light.
Tomatoes, geraniums, roses and other sun-loving plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If you don't have such a spot, don't plant fruits and flowers that will only grow thin and probably become diseased.
To increase light under large trees, trim large branches to let more sun shine through.
Although poor light limits plant size, inadequate water is just as destructive.
Ray Rothenberger, extension specialist at the University of Missouri, says a large shade tree can lose nearly 200 gallons of water through its leaves every day.
Trees that have large root systems close to the soil surface - magnolia, maple and pine, for example - compete with plants.
Several trees close together can pull even more water from the soil. And large trees prevent dew and light rains from reaching plants.
Plants need about 1 inch of water per week and 50 percent more during very hot weather. Plants under trees may need twice that. When plants wilt in the shade in hot, dry weather, water them.
Competition for plant food is also more intense beneath trees. Plants may require fertilization monthly, instead of once or twice a year. But beware: When you apply more water and fertilizer beneath a tree, it stimulates tree growth, producing more shade. So you may need to prune even more.
Wooded lots often are a homeowner's dream. But, remember, they also come with problems. Plants under trees require special attention.
Fall is an ideal time to plant. If you have a wooded lot, select plants that will grow in the shade and that require minimal watering. by CNB