About Amy's Answers
Amy is not afraid to get her hands dirty. As a self-taught gardener, she takes on her fair share of landscaping projects, picking up a ton of knowledge as she goes. If you have a plant care or landscaping question you’ve been too afraid to ask, you’re in the right place!
It has been very hot and my Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea receives a lot of sun, resulting in brown leaves. Should I move it to the shade?
Posted on Jul 24, 2017
You are right, it probably is too much sun and heat and that’s why the flowers are turning brown.
My newly planted hydrangea is wilting, even though I have fertilized and watered diligently. Is it getting too much water, too much sun, or is the soil not good enough?
Posted on Jul 24, 2017
These are all good questions and I hope we get it figured out in time!
The leaves on my Moonlight Magic appear to have green spots on them, and they are dropping rapidly. What do you think this could be?
Posted on Jul 24, 2017
Did it recently get hot and dry where you live?
One Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea is thriving, while the other is droopy and shriveled. I have watered and fertilized both of them. What could the problem be?
Posted on Jul 24, 2017
It’s always strange when one plant does well and another struggles. Especially, when the conditions seem to be the same.
I'm losing a rhododendron. It's in partial shade with southwest exposure. Would a weigela do better in this spot?
Posted on Jul 24, 2017
What a bummer!
Can I prune Purple Magic Crapemyrtle into a tree?
Posted on Jul 18, 2017
Your success will depend on the winters and how much dieback they experience.
My Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea has bloomed white in color and has yet to turn pink. What can I do?
Posted on Jul 17, 2017
Give it a little bit of time for the magical transformation to take place.
Is it normal for red twig dogwoods to sprout a white leaf stem?
Posted on Jul 17, 2017
It happens from time to time, shrubs will send up a stem with white leaves.
Will Amber Jubilee become more dense and full if I prune the tops?
Posted on Jul 14, 2017
You can definitely bulk up a plant by pruning it.
Can I prune ninebark in mid July?
Posted on Jul 14, 2017
Yes! July is a good time to prune a ninebark.
I am noticing some dark frayed edges on the leaves of my newly planted Amber Jubilee. Could this mean bugs?
Posted on Jul 14, 2017
Yes, you are probably right!
The leaves on my Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea are turning yellow. What should I do to fix this?
Posted on Jul 10, 2017
The yellow leaves are telling you that it needs a drink of water!
How can I prepare my Moonlight Magic for winter?
Posted on Jul 10, 2017
There are some things you can do but much of it depends on the winter.
I am wondering if the Tahiti Hibiscus produces seedlings that would need to be pulled up? I'm not looking for extra work!
Posted on Jul 10, 2017
Tahiti and the others in that collection will produce seedlings.
Do crapemyrtle's lose their leaves in the winter?
Posted on Jul 7, 2017
Yes, but surprisingly, it’s a really good shrub for the winter landscape!
I am looking for a dwarf tree that would do well in harsh afternoon sun. Would Amber Jubilee Ninebark do well?
Posted on Jul 3, 2017
That is a great suggestion!
How do I get rid of bugs that are eating my hydrangea leaves?
Posted on Jun 30, 2017
Battling bugs can be such a pain!
Could you recommend a mophead hydrangea that would do well in Central Florida?
Posted on Jun 28, 2017
I’m so glad you are thinking about adding mophead hydrangeas to your garden!
Do barberries lose their leaves in the fall and winter?
Posted on Jun 28, 2017
Yes, but they take their time dropping the leaves.
I want to keep my First Edition Purple Magic Crapemyrtle as small as possible- how can I achieve this?
Posted on Jun 27, 2017
Great question! The mature size of a crapemyrtle can depend on how cold or warm the winter temperatures are, and the early spring weather.
Last year I planted the Above and Beyond Rose and it's covered in blooms. Should I deadhead the earlier blooms or let it be?
Posted on Jun 27, 2017
It won’t hurt to let it go and let the old flowers and petals just fall off.
When deadheading roses, should the stem be cut at the old bud or the next leaf?
Posted on Jun 22, 2017
Good question! You could deadhead at either part, depending on your preference.
When would be the best time to plant the Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Now is a great time! Get it in the ground and enjoy the flowers this summer.
Does the Hibiscus Hawaii set seed, or is it one of the seedless Rose of Sharon?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Hawaii is not a sterile variety. It will set seed, as will the other ones in that collection.
Little white spiders with webbing are on several of my plants killing the leaves. How do I get rid of them?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
I wonder if they are wooly aphids.
My Snow White Fantasy bloomed a couple weeks ago but now the petals are falling off. Should I prune it?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Mockorange flowers in the spring and then again in the summer!
My Gardenia buds drop off before opening. Is this normal?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Gardenias are really intended for zones 7-9.
My Miss Kim Lilacs are over 8 feet tall. Can they be pruned down to 4 feet without killing them?
Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Miss Kim Lilacs are supposed to mature to 6-7’. You must be giving yours lots of love!
Do weigelas require a lot of water when in direct sunlight?
Posted on Jun 19, 2017
Anything newly planted will get wilty when the summer sun comes on and the temperatures rise.
What type of shrub and ground cover would you recommend for a full sun bed?
Posted on Jun 16, 2017
There are a few options I can think of!
Why does the hypericum stem decay?
Posted on Jun 16, 2017
Stem decay can happen when the soil is just too wet, waterlogged, or there is poor air circulation.
What is the reason the hypericum plants leaves become black?
Posted on Jun 16, 2017
The black leaves are probably caused by a fungus – too much water and poor air circulation.
Do you know how to get rid of white substance on crapemyrtle leaves?
Posted on Jun 16, 2017
It’s probably calcium deposits on the foliage. If so, it isn’t a problem to worry about!
Does the Toscana Barberry have thorns?
Posted on Jun 14, 2017
Yes, it does have thorns. However, the foliage is so pretty that it might be worth reconsidering!
DOES THE FRINGE FLOWER GROW FASTER THAN BOXWOODS? WOULD THEY COVER THEM UP?
Posted on Jun 13, 2017
That’s a good question. Boxwoods are slow growing and will eventually reach 3-4’.
CAN I CUT MY VANILLA STRAWBERRY DOWN FOR A FULLER LOOK WITHOUT PREVENTING FLOWERS?
Posted on Jun 13, 2017
Great question! Fortunately, Vanilla Strawberry flowers on new growth, so spring pruning is okay.
Will Above and Beyond do well in part shade?
Posted on Jun 11, 2017
Definitely, it will be best in full sun. In the spot you have in mind, it probably won’t have as many flowers.
What's a good plant for a border?
Posted on Jun 11, 2017
I think a mix of plants makes the best border and a healthy border.
ARE CHAPEL VIEW JAPANESE CEDARS AND DISTYLIUMS DEER RESISTANT?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
Great questions! And, good news.
ARE ENDLESS SUMMER VARIETIES DEER RESISTANT?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
That’s a good question, and I wish I had better news for you!
MY NEWLY PLANTED BLOOMSTRUCK HAVE WILTED WITH THE RECENT HEAT. WILL THEY COME BACK?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
I bet that spike in temperature caused the wilting as it took the plants by surprise!
MY GARDENIA LEAVES TURN YELLOW AND THE BUDS TURN BROWN BEFORE FALLING OFF. WHAT AM I DOING WRONG?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
Great question! It depends on which part of the plant you are watering.
I AM LOOKING FOR A YELLOW-FLOWERED PERENNIAL, BUT DON’T KNOW THE NAME. HOW COULD I FIND OUT?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
Great question! There are a few perennials that it could be.
AM I OVERWATERING OR UNDERWATERING MY HYDRANGEAS?
Posted on Jun 9, 2017
Sometimes, it is hard to tell if there is too much or not enough water. However, the answer is in the dirt.
Why are my Diervilla's new branches dark green rather than the variegated?
Posted on May 31, 2017
A cool start to spring will sometimes cause the edges of the leaves to be slight green.
Will the Campfire Rose spread beyond the border where I plant it?
Posted on May 30, 2017
You are in luck! Campfire Rose is a shrub rose and doesn’t spread.
My azalea have a lot of dead branches on them, is it lack of rain last summer?
Posted on May 30, 2017
Lack of rain could be one of the causes. Plants really need regular watering through the season.
Can I grow hydrangeas indoors?
Posted on May 30, 2017
It can be done but will need just the right conditions!
What can I plant in slopy sandy soil, and shady area that prevents ground erosion and is deer resistant?
Posted on May 30, 2017
This sounds like a tough site!
My house has no landscaping - help!
Posted on May 30, 2017
No landscaping means lots of opportunity! A five year plan is a great idea.
I have a dead spot on my Alberta Spruce. Is there a fertilizer that will help?
Posted on May 26, 2017
Do you know what caused the dead spot?
My Light-O-Day Hydrangea plants aren't blooming this year. What am I doing wrong?
Posted on May 26, 2017
You know, I love the variegated foliage so much that I sometimes forget about the flowers!
Is the Sapphire Surf plant a late starter?
Posted on May 25, 2017
Has your plant not yet leafed out? You may want to first consider your zone.
Do the branches on my Ruby Tears need to be weighed down?
Posted on May 23, 2017
You just get to sit back and enjoy your new tree!
Can you help me prune my healthy growing shrubs to keep them neat and small?
Posted on May 22, 2017
I try to keep pruning at a minimum by planting the right size shrub in the right size place.
Only one of my hydrangeas is leafing out this Spring. What am I doing wrong?
Posted on May 19, 2017
Sometimes, it’s hard to figure out what went wrong with a plant.
Would Amber Jubilee Ninebark shrubs work well in front of the trees in my backyard?
Posted on May 17, 2017
I think Amber Jubilee Ninebark looks great anywhere!
Are any hydrangea deer resistant?
Posted on May 17, 2017
Unfortunately, deer really like hydrangeas.
Is Little Devil Ninebark Deer Resistant?
Posted on May 17, 2017
That's a really good question. In some areas of the country, ninebarks are deer resistant.
Is the Tahiti Hibiscus Sterile?
Posted on May 15, 2017
Tahiti and the group of single petal hibiscus are not sterile.
Can Hydrangeas survive in Sandy soil?
Posted on May 11, 2017
I'm wondering - how are the hydrangeas doing?
WHAT CAN I PLANT IN A ROCKY, SLOPING AREA TO HOLD THE GROUND & KEEP WEEDS AT BAY?
Posted on May 11, 2017
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Posted in Design
This sounds like a tough site!
I'm looking for a plant to create a privacy fence. What do you recommend?
Posted on May 9, 2017
Using shrubs as a privacy fence is such a fun idea!
What is the difference between a reblooming hydrangea and an endless summer hydrangea?
Posted on May 8, 2017
Great question about the Endless Summer Hydrangeas!
What do you suggest for a low-maintenance patio border?
Posted on May 8, 2017
First Editions has lots of options for you!
Are there any Hydrangeas that can take full sun?
Posted on May 8, 2017
This is a great question! Sun and shade symbols can be confusing.
When Will I see buds on my Midnight Magic this Spring?
Posted on May 8, 2017
Waiting and watching for signs of life in the spring can be so hard! And, it doesn’t help that crape myrtles take their time leafing out.
How deep are the roots of spirea bushes?
Posted on May 7, 2017
I’m curious, are you planning to dig one up and move it? Or, are you planting one in a container?
How do I maintain the large blooms on my Funky Fuchsia Buddleia?
Posted on May 6, 2017
I’m glad you like Funky Fuchsia butterfly bush! Aren't the flowers incredible?
How do you trim a Weigela Shrub?
Posted on May 6, 2017
Weigela is such a pretty plant! And, fortunately, if you make a mistake pruning, it’s forgiving and will grow right back and fill in again.
My ninebark is mildew resistant, but I'm noticing some on my plant. What do I do?
Posted on May 5, 2017
Although plants may be resistant to something, outbreaks can still happen.
Can you tell me more about the Standing Ovation Serviceberry?
Posted on May 5, 2017
You are off to a good start on your landscape with Standing Ovation Serviceberry!
Can I plant my Gardenia in a container?
Posted on May 3, 2017
I’m really glad that you asked this question. I receive quite a few questions about gardenias from all across the country.
Will holly bushes survive in the winter?
Posted on May 3, 2017
Evergreen hollies would probably struggle in those conditions.
I'm a new gardener, where do I begin?
Don’t worry about being new to gardening! We are all learning as we go.
My Crape Myrtles looks brown and weak this spring - What can I do?
Posted on May 2, 2017
Great question! With crape myrtles, you have to be patient.
Can I plant Shining Sensation in a container?
Posted on Apr 27, 2017
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Posted in Design
I love container gardening! It’s fun to try different plants in containers, especially ones that attract hummingbirds.
I HAVE A HILL COVERED IN JUNIPER AND WANT TO RE-LANDSCAPE WITH LOW MAINTENANCE SHRUBBERY. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND?
Posted on Apr 27, 2017
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Posted in Design
Sounds like you have quite the project on your hands!
What can I plant for a replacement hedge?
For your replacement hedge, are you wanting something evergreen or a mix of shrubs? And, how tall do you want it be when it is mature? Also, sun or shade?
Why aren't my plants coming back this Spring?
It can be hard after winter waiting to see what will leaf out and what doesn’t, and with a new plant, it can be iffy.
How do I care for my plants in a hot climate?
Posted on Apr 23, 2017
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Posted in Care
Don’t be dismayed! We have some plants for you to try and suggestions on how to get them off to a great start and keep them alive.
How do I care and pair plants with my orange hibiscus?
Posted on Apr 23, 2017
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Posted in Design
I think I've got just what you're looking for...
How do I get more blooms on my Endless Summer Hydrangea (macrophylla)?
Posted on Apr 23, 2017
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Posted in Care
It’s so frustrating when something goes wrong with a plant. I think it could be one of many things.
What plants stay green all winter in a cold climate?
Posted on Apr 23, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
A bit of green and hope that spring is coming helps me get through winter!
Can Weigela grow in my zone?
Posted on Apr 22, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
Weigela is a great plant, and thrives in zones 4-8.
How much should I trim my Lagerstoemias?
Posted on Apr 21, 2017
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Posted in Care
I usually wait to see new growth in the spring before pruning.
Should I cut back old growth on my red flame hypericum in the spring?
Posted on Apr 21, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
Great question! I usually wait to see new growth in the spring before pruning.
I'm moving - How do I transplant my plants to my new house?
Posted on Apr 21, 2017
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Posted in Care
This is a great question! It would be best to dig them up now while the weather is still mild.
My Plant hasn't started to bloom - did it survive the winter?
Posted on Apr 21, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
You should see leaves or leaf buds real soon. It can be hard waiting after winter to see what plants made it and what plants didn't.
Does the Limoncello Barberry retain its leaves year round?
Posted on Apr 21, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
Barberries are deciduous shrubs, meaning they will lose their leaves in the winter.
Are there plants that will attract bees, but not wasps?
Posted on Apr 20, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
This is a great question. Bees are pollinators and are much more interested in plant pollen than in people. Wasps, on the other hand, are predators and can be aggressive.
I spotted yellow leaves on my plant, what does it mean?
There are a couple of things that may be the cause your plant's new look.
Can I plant an Azalea in a container?
Posted on Apr 17, 2017
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Posted in Design
That’s a great question and a little bit tricky to answer! Azaleas would definitely be best in the ground year round.
Can hydrangeas survive in zone 10?
Posted on Apr 14, 2017
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Posted in FAQ
Great question! If you are on the edge of zone 9, you can probably grow hydrangeas.
How do I prune Spirea?
Posted on Apr 13, 2017
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Posted in Care
When you start seeing leaves and the forecast looks like spring has really arrived in your area, it’s time to prune.
How do I landscape the slope in my yard to prevent erosion?
This is such a great landscaping question, and one you can have some fun with!
What can I plant in my yard to add greenery to cut flower arrangements?
Cinnamon Girl or Vintage Jade distylium would perfect!
I live in the south. What blooming shrubs can I plant in the shade?
First Editions has some great options for shady spots in your area.
When do I fertilize my Azaleas?
Posted on Apr 10, 2017
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Posted in Care
Great question - It’s best to fertilize azaleas after they flower, before the first of June.
How can I garden on a budget?
First, start with your soil. It’s always a good idea to add some compost when planting.
How much should I prune Amber Jubilee?
Posted on Apr 5, 2017
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Posted in Care
Thanks, Lynn, for your question! Knowing how much to prune – if at all – depends on how much space you have.
Do any of the new varieties get along with Black Walnuts?
Posted on Apr 4, 2017
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Posted in Design
That’s both a tough question and a great question! I’m glad you asked.
How and When do I prune my Hypericum?
Here's a shout out to Bill in Washington who asked about pruning his Red Star Hypericum.
Which plants pair well with Cinnamon Girl Distylium?
Posted on Mar 30, 2017
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Posted in Design
You are so lucky to live in a part of the country where it is a warmer zone and Cinnamon Girl Distylium thrives.
I want to add color to my yard, what do you recommend?
Thanks for your question, Alice! I think adding a pop of color to your landscape bed is a great idea.
How do I winterize my plants in the Fall?
I'm glad you asked because this is something many people forget to do. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, certain varieties should be covered and protected from the cold winter.
What kind of fertilizer do I use for my hibiscus?
This is a great question! Usually with flowering shrubs, they need phosphorus. Not hibiscus!
How do I prune my Hydrangea (Paniculata)?
Such a bummer to hear your hydrangea isn't blooming like you hoped. Lucky for you, we've created a video to give you the care advice you need to get those blooms back.
How do I use fertilizer in my garden?
What’s the old saying? Spring forward, fall back? The same applies here.
Where is the best place to plant a hydrangea along a house?
Posted on Feb 6, 2017
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Posted in Design
I absolutely love hydrangeas! And, I really don’t think you can have too many.
Will the New Diamond Rouge Hydrangea Thrive in my area?
Posted on Jan 20, 2017
Thank you Karen, for your question about the Diamond Rouge Hydrangea.