How To: Identify and problems with the red bud, & catus trees

Do you wonder if what you are seeing on your trees or plants is a problem, or simply natural? John White and Lois Pierce discuss various issues with Manzanitas, Red Buds, Viburnums, Mexican Buckeyes, and Cacti. Manzanitas have specific water needs and do not like being transplanted. It's not a good sign when the ends of the leaves are crisp as they are getting too dry. They need more water. Mites can cause irregular growth and those growths should be cut off. Holey leaves on the Red Buds are caused by a virus that won't kill the trees, it just makes them less pretty. Wind damage will leave jagged edges on leaves. Markings on the ends of the branch are caused by new growth so they are not a problem! Viburnum leaves get scorched from heat and intense sunlight. Aphids can cause leaves to curl. These are not major issues when they happen early in the year because old leaves fall off when the new ones grow in. Are the fruits on Mexican Buckeyes edible? The fruits have seeds that have toxin in them, so do not eat them. To germinate Mexican Buckeyes, let the seeds dry out completely. Use a bit of sandpaper and rub the seeds to the point where they can take on some water. Then they will start to grow. The cotton-like looking parts of Cacti are common and natural. It's simply a sign that they need more water.