Apples are the most reliable fruit-producing tree, followed by pears, plums, cherries, peaches, then apricots and nectarines.

Some trees have free flowing sap and will ‘bleed’ excessively if pruned in early spring. While unsightly, the bleeding sap causes little harm to the plants.

Drought or not, you can have beautiful landscaping, healthy plants and water savings once most plants are established, especially if you choose these plants and use good practices.

Drought or not, you can have beautiful landscaping, healthy plants and water savings once most plants are established, especially if you choose these plants and use good practices.

Some of the most difficult growing conditions imaginable are found in the Double Diamond area. These conditions exist along the east side of the Truckee Meadows south of the Double Diamond area and extend north through the Spanish Springs area.

The environment in your yard can change dramatically between the front and back yards. Trees (yours and your neighbors’) and fences can also dramatically affect airflow and shade within your landscape.

Consider the amount of space available for the plant (both now and when full- grown), the amount of sunlight it will receive, the type of soil at the site and type of soil the plant requires.

A healthy plant has deep roots. The deeper the roots, the less temperature variations on the surface impact the plant and the more firmly the plant is anchored into the soil.

Caring for an outdoor bonsai tree is different from that of normal potted plants. The main reason is that bonsai trees are planted in small pots and therefore have limited storage for nutrients and water.

Butterflies require both host plants on which to lay their eggs and provide food for the caterpillars plus nectar plants which feed the butterflies.

Plant a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes of flowers for bees. Their favorite colors are blue, purple and yellow.

Citrus trees make wonderful patio trees during northern Nevada’s summer months and transform into houseplants which produce a beautiful fragrance during the winter.