Because of the increasing frequency of root defects and planting problems that we've already discussed, a growing number of horticultural experts around the country are recommending taking more drastic steps when planting trees and shrubs.

Last week I talked about common tree and shrub planting problems. I focused on digging the right size hole, planting at the right level and mulching. This week, let's talk about why your tree or shrub may be doomed even if you do everything you can to plant it right.

Ask me what's the best way to plant a tree or shrub.

When someone tells you a plant is a dwarf, it really doesn't tell you much.

It made me so mad!

When? It's a question many gardeners ask at this time of year.

Several weeks ago I mentioned that the National Garden Bureau picks one vegetable and one flower every year to be showcased.

You may already know that I don't like many trees or shrubs with leaves that are purple, red, brown or any other color but green. Oddly, I feel differently about flowering annuals and perennials. Their desirable ornamental characteristics can include foliage texture, color and variegation patterns, with or without the flowers.

When the temperatures climb above 50 degrees, gardeners are anxious to get out in the garden.

If you're a gardener who mail orders flower and vegetable seeds every year, you've probably been receiving catalogs since the beginning of the new year.

Did you know 2008 is the Year of the Eggplant?

Some Tri-City gardeners may have been surprised that a local farmer was successful growing peanuts last year.

It won't be long (I hope) before we'll be seeing the cheery flowers of crocus announcing that spring is on its way, but even on mild and sunny winter days I find it hard to ponder the coming gardening season.

From time to time I mention the design industry's color trends for the coming year because it influences the color of flowers and plants that will be available.

Christmas cactus is an old-fashioned houseplant that's still popular with gardeners today. Christmas cactus is only one of the types of similar-looking holiday cacti. There is a Thanksgiving cactus, a Christmas cactus and an Easter cactus. These closely related cousins are different species of the Schlumbergera and Hatiora genera of cactus.

It's been a long time since I've talked about "garbage gardening," but our weather's halt of all outdoor gardening activities has me snuggled up indoors waiting out a potentially long, cold winter.

Drip irrigation is 30 percent to 40 percent more efficient than sprinkler irrigation.

Whatever your favorite type of tree, here are some tips on selecting a fresh one and keeping it in good condition as long as possible:

Aren't they all pines? What's the difference? I've been known to be fussy when it comes to picking out a Christmas tree.