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Bob Morris

Bob Morris

Bob Morris is a horticulture expert living in Las Vegas and professor emeritus for the University of Nevada. Visit his blog at xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com. Send questions to Extremehort@aol.com.

Stopping the source only sure way to beat flies

Question: My husband and I spend four months away from the valley during the summer. When we returned in late September, we could not believe the number of flies in our yard, and because we are used to leaving our doors open, in our house.

Planting fruit trees between pines not the way to go

Question: I recently moved into a home in Henderson, and I have a large back yard with about seven pine trees lining the property. The trees are spaced approximately 8 feet apart. I am contemplating planting fruit trees between the pines, and once they reach maturity, I would remove the pine trees. What do you think about this approach?

Apricot spread depends on its rootstock

Question: Before I plant my apricot tree this spring, I would like to know how much space I should allocate for it. Does a Blenheim apricot lend itself to close pruning?

Elegant Amaryllis takes gentle handling

Question: I was wondering when is the best time to transplant the Amaryllis plants — now or in the spring? They bloomed beautifully this past summer but seem to be getting a bit pot-bound. I also wonder if regular potting soil is best, and when and how often they need to be fertilized?

THE LATEST
Suffering plum may have second chance

Question: My purple plum has branches that are dying on one side of the tree. The leaves are all brown and crunchy while the other side seems healthy. Please help.

Desert winds can shred peach tree leaves

Question: I hope you can help with a small problem with our dwarf peach tree. Something is shredding the leaves, and I cannot see anything after a close inspection. Could this be a nocturnal pest?

BOB MORRIS: All-in-one almonds a quick pick

Question: We have an all-in-one almond tree with the shells just now starting to break through the skins. I was told that September is when the nuts are harvested. I’m wondering if you have a rule of thumb on harvesting these trees.

BOB MORRIS: Picking pomegranates a test of patience

Question: We are new to raising pomegranates. We have been watering them and have cut off most of the suckers but need to know when they should be ready to be picked.

BOB MORRIS: Pick hibiscus at its peak for herb tea

Question: I have a roselle hibiscus plant. I’m trying to make the Mexican agua de jamaica. It has grown well and has many flowers, but I am afraid I will lose it if I don’t harvest and dry it correctly. When do I harvest it, and how do I dry it?