Prune honeysuckle

I have a Lonicera 'Belgica' that is three years old. It has not been pruned since it was planted as I wanted it to grow up to hide a neighbour's hot tub. Problem is, now it is over seven feet tall, four feet wide and top heavy. It is on a metal trellis that blows in the wind now. How much should I prune it back (e.g. two thirds to the root, one third, etc). When should it be pruned? What would be another good way to support it? more...

Non-blooming climbing hydrangeas

I have two climbing hydrangea planted side-by-side on a west facing fence. I planted them 4 years ago and they are growing beautifully with strong vines and big, green leaves. The problem is, they have never bloomed. The spot that I planted them in was originally quite shady but now gets a fair amount of sun (as my neighbour trimmed a very large tree) but it does not appear to be burning the leaves. Is this the problem or is there another possible reason? more...

Spreading wisteria

I have a Japanese wisteria that I put in about 10 years ago. I have read that they can be "trained" to grow up large trees. Ours has grown up a large cedar, and while it looks beautiful it is really spreading and I worry that it will choke out the cedar and surrounding ones if I leave it. Should I cut it down? Also, should I be worried about the roots in my septic field? more...

Removing squash and pumpkin blossoms

Should I remove squash and pumpkin blossoms in the fall to allow all the plants’ energy to go toward the development of the squash on the vines? more...

Edible vines

Vines are a great way to grow a garden "up," especially wonderful if you are short on space. In any garden, vines add height and provide screening. more...