Answer: I don't know of any plant that has been known to bleed to death. However, the prolonged dripping indicates that you should prune your grapes earlier, in mid-February. One rule of thumb is that if a day outdoors is comfortable for you, it is the right time for pruning grapes.

        Q: For several years my well-established lirope plantings started developing brown leaf tips in the fall. The plants do not die, but look unsightly. Any suggestions for preventing this?

        A: Brown leaf tips indicate a problem in the root area, often soil that is too dry. The shallow roots of lirope need conscientious watering during long, dry, hot summers, particularly if the soil is low in organic matter. Use a soaker hose and water to a depth of 6 inches — especially if the weather is windy and dry.

        Q: Our neighbor raises rabbits, so we have lots of rabbit droppings available. Can I use them in place of cow manure?

        A: Dried rabbit manure contains a little more than 2 percent nitrogen, about 0.6 percent phosphate and only 0.05 percent potassium. Cow manure contains, generally speaking, an N-P-K ratio of 1-1-1. When rabbit manure is well-rotted, most of the nitrogen is leached out; however, it makes great organic material for soil. The composted droppings can be applied liberally to 3 inches deep. Turn them in well ahead of planting time, in the fall or early spring.

        Q: The leaves on my Boston ivy (Parthenocissus sp.) develop brown spots and drop during the summer. I have checked the leaves with a magnifying glass and can see little black raised dots in the middle of the spots. What's the problem?

        A: Many fungi cause leaf spotting on Boston ivy, especially in damp weather. The most common offender is Guignardia Bidwelli. Early spraying of zineb or Bordeaux mixture (copper sulfate, lime and water) will control the spread of this disease. Begin spraying early and repeat every two weeks for a total of three applications. Always clean up and destroy fallen leaves.

        Contact Tim Morehouse by Web site: www.getmoregarden.com; mail: c/o Cincinnati Enquirer. (If writing, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.)
       

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