Why is my Fuyu persimmon tree bearing less fruit this year compared to previous years?
I give it the same care every year. After discussing the problem with Joel Kiff and Gary Blasi at the Windsor Farmers Market (who have both experienced a smaller persimmon crop), the consensus was the weather was hot and very windy during the period of flower formation on the trees, probably resulting in lighter persimmon crops. The moral of the story: Mother Nature always has the last say even if the very best of care has been given to a fruit-bearing tree. Lydia asks: I’ve been forcing tulip bulbs for ages but they never seem to look as good as those purchased from a florist. Any comments or suggestions on the subject? When planting/forcing bulbs, use well-draining soil, shallow containers and plant with the bulb’s pointed end up, leaving a portion of the point exposed — never buried. Carefully position each tulip bulb as close as possible to the other bulbs without letting them touch. The flat side of the bulb should be placed next to the rim of the pot you decide to use. The large
