5/12/12- Cool veggies still need attention.

Question:
When is the best time for growing Brussels Sprouts? John, Taylorville, IL
Mort's Answer:
If you get lucky and get cool weather this spring and summer, you could plant this spring. Since they can survive frosts, they can be planted earlier in the spring or in August in zone 6 for late fall or winter harvest. Fall is better because they favor cool instead of heat. You can store the plants indoors with sprouts attached in the winter as long as they do not freeze.

Question:
I used BT this year to get grid of cabbage worms. They are still present on my five inch plants. I am using Sevin without too much success. What do you think? Bill, Tulsa, OK
Mort's Answer:
Sevin can be used with vegetables in the early stages because it only lasts 24 hours. Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis has proven to be more effective after a year or two. This bacteria needs time to establish itself in the soil. In the meantime, you could put a styrofoam ring around each plant. Coat the outside edge with vaseline for a mechanical obstacle for the critters.

Question:
Can I prune my lilac back now? Chris, East Greenwich, RI
Mort's Answer:
After the flowers have died, you can dead head the old blooms. Any branch over an inch can be cut down to the ground, if necessary. Remove half of the new pencil shoots. Since lilacs bloom on two and three year old branches, you can have a continual stream of advantageous stems. You can also add some 5-10-10 fertilizer, if you have not fertilized in the last five years.

Question:
We brought some tulips back from Holland and they look great. Can we leave them out? Alan, North Kingstown, RI
Mort's Answer:
If they are number ones, they are top quality. Many tulips bought here are not number ones and should be dug up and stored for the summer in a cool dry place. If your soil is sandy, I wold take a chance and leave them to regenerate in the ground. You might try taking a few indoors as a back up.

Question:
How can I get your book? "A Face Made for Radio"
Mort's Answer:
You can purchase my book, "A Face Made for Radio".
This autobiography is 11.95 per copy including S&H. It chronicles my first 25 years and the history of radio. Just mail check or money order to:

Whitehouse Productions
484 Wellington Ave.
Cranston, RI 02910.

Allow two weeks for delivery.