Where can I get good information about planting and maintaining my lawn?

Carolina Lawns, a publication of NC Cooperative Extension is available online at http://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/pubs/extension/CarolinaLawnsAccessible.pdf

The brochure discusses soil testing, preparation as well as how and when to plant.  It will guide you in seed selection, fertilizer application, irrigation, mowing and pest control. Mid-August to mid-September is the best time to renovate cool-season lawns.

Warm-season grasses are planted March 1 to July 1 depending on the species.

 

When is the best time to prune shrubs and trees?

There is no hard and fast rule for pruning shrubs and trees. It depends. Many shrubs and most trees require very little pruning. Generally you prune spring blooming shrubs such as azaleas, rhododendrons after they bloom in the spring. Abelia can be pruned any time. Euonymus in our area can be pruned in early spring and again in mid summer.  Forsyth County Cooperative Extension can send you their Landscape Pruning Calendar if you call the MG Hotline at 703-2846.

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/shrubs/text/pruning.htm

What about dividing irises?

Irises grow and crowd themselves, ceasing to flower.
Early fall is a good time to divide bearded iris.
Loosen soil around the clumps.
Use a spading fork to pry them out with a gentle rocking motion.
Cut young rhizomes from clump edges. 
Each new piece should have one or two fans.
Remove withered leaves. Trim foliage to a fan shape.
Remove damaged roots.
Replant the rhizomes about an inch deep by filling in soil around each rhizome leaving tops exposed. Water thoroughly.

 http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/hil-8506.html

 

What are the camellias that bloom in the fall? 

Two species of camellias thrive in North Carolina.

Camellia sasanqua  blooms in October and November. Camellia japonica, the slightly hardier species, blooms in late winter and early spring.

Fall is the best time to plant camellias in our area. Mature plants spread 10 to 12 feet so you should consider this when planting.  Camellias do well in partial shade but can be exposed to full sun.  They do not do well in windy areas.  Provide well drained slightly acid soil.  Camellias grow well without pruning except to shape or to remove dead or injured branches.

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/brunswick/mastergardener/mg20417.html

 

If you have other questions or a more specific question, please call the MG Hotline at 336-703-2846 when the Hotline is open. MG Hotline availability