Question From: C. Altomare - Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
Q: Hi there Nancy! I sprouted these redbuds from seed this year. I have looked all over to find out what to do next. I assume that I just keep them happy for the summer, but come fall, what do I do to overwinter them safely? And, do I just keep moving them up to a slightly larger container until they are strong enough to live in the ground? How long might that be? These have been "up" for about 2 months now (since May. I thought they were a dud, but they proved me wrong!!)
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A: Due to the heat, I would up pot them to quart pots and then plant them in the ground in fall. If you collected the seed in your area hardiness should not be an issue. Do be sure to keep their soil moist till it freezes. When they soil freezes mulch them in piles of leaves, to be removed in March. Do keep them watered. Congrats on your success growing from seed. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
Q: The stems are quite thin at this stage....maybe not even a toothpick's width. That is what concerns me about them. They are growing in height, putting out new leaves, but the stems are still so delicate.
A: Spindly plants are the result of lack of sun. Get them into larger pots and out in the sun, but do this slowly to harden them off. Amend the potting soil with a slow release organic fertilizer according to package directions. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
