Gardeners in the Springfield area have a lot to learn from the wisdom of the local Master Gardeners. In a recent column for the Springfield News-Leader, the experts shared valuable insights on properly caring for rosemary, managing invasive plant species like Bradford pears, and the right way to prune these troublesome trees.
Reviving Rosemary the Right Way
Rosemary is a beloved herb that can thrive year-round, but it does require some careful pruning to keep it healthy and productive. As The Spruce explains, the best time to prune rosemary is in the late spring or early summer, after the plant has finished flowering. This encourages fresh new growth that will carry it through the growing season.
What this really means is that you shouldn't be pruning rosemary too early in the spring, as that can remove the flowers and leave the new growth vulnerable to late frosts. The experts recommend waiting at least 1-1.5 months before the first frost before doing any major pruning. And as always, make sure to use clean, sharp pruners to get a clean cut and avoid damaging the plant.
The Scourge of Bradford Pears
While rosemary may be a gardener's delight, the same can't be said for the dreaded Bradford pear tree. As the Master Gardeners warn, these fast-growing trees quickly become unmanageable, reaching towering heights of 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide in just 20 years.
The bigger picture here is that Bradford pears are not only a nuisance, but an actively invasive species that can quickly take over an area, crowding out native plants. The solution, according to the experts? Grab a chainsaw and cut them down, fast. As one Master Gardener bluntly put it, "the best time to prune a Bradford (callery) pear is any time you have a chainsaw handy."
Tackling Other Invasive Plants
Bradford pears aren't the only plants that can become a problem in local gardens. As Southern Living reports, invasive species like kudzu, Chinese privet, and even some varieties of wisteria can quickly take over if left unchecked. The key is to stay vigilant, prune regularly, and consider replacing these problematic plants with native alternatives that are better for the local ecosystem.
By heeding the advice of experienced Master Gardeners, Springfield-area residents can keep their gardens thriving and avoid the headaches that come with aggressive, invasive species. It's all about striking the right balance through smart pruning and selective plant choices.