Colour Code

The tree borer that damages the tree from inside besides damaging the outer bark is but a shy insect that lives inside the trunk and feeds under the tunnel on its own excreta.

The tree borer that damages the tree from inside besides damaging the outer bark is but a shy insect that lives inside the trunk and feeds under the tunnel on its own excreta. An inch-and-a-half long insect retracts immediately on seeing anyone approaching. The insect enters the hole at irregular cut ends or in damaged tree crotches. To control it, inject thiodan, dissolved at four millitre to a litre of water in the hole with the help of a syringe and plug the hole with wet mud.

Where can I purchase flowering colourful creepers which are perennials and flower throughout the year?

Navkesh, on E-mail

You can get most of the climbers from government nurseries or almost all private nurseries. Tell them your specific requirement or you can ask for Jhumka bel, Clerodendron can grow in shade, Railway creeper, Golden Shower specifically needs sunny location, Adenocalymma Lassan bel and Honey Suckle.

I want to present a plant in a pot to a Christian friend on Christmas. Which plant can I give to suit the occasion?
Perminder Singh, Chandigarh
Perminder, you must give him a plant that bears red flowers. Poinsettia with red brackets at the top, either the Fireball or single dwarf type will be ideal. It is also a true Christmas plant. Another plant you can give is Euphorbia the hybrid with big thorns and deep red flowers. This plant is also called the 8216;Crown of thorns.8217;

The grapefruits have grown in size, but I am not sure whether it has ripened or not. How can I tell? What is the time to pick it up?
Sunita, Panchkula
You can pick up the fruit now, as this is the time when the fruit ripens.

My ber tree has borne fruit for the first time. It seems to be good quality ber. When will it be ready for plucking?
Manisha, Chandigarh
You have not mentioned about the variety and so herefore I will not be able to tell you the exact time. But the ber ripens from the last week of February till mid-April.

ASK DR GREEN at satishnarulayahoo.co.in