Ask the ISU Extension Garden Experts: Apricots, African Violets and Houseplants

Can apricots be successfully grown in Iowa?

Most apricot varieties are not reliably hardy in Iowa. Two University of Minnesota introductions are the best choices for Iowa. ‘Moongold’ and ‘Sungold’ were introduced by the University of Minnesota in 1960. Both varieties can be grown as far north as the Twin Cities area. ‘Moongold’ and ‘Sungold’ are self-unfruitful. Plant at least one tree of each variety for cross-pollination and fruit set.

Growing apricots in Iowa can be challenging. Apricots bloom in early spring and are susceptible to damage from late spring frosts. A late frost or freeze can severely damage or destroy the flowers, resulting in little or no crop. In Iowa, gardeners can anticipate a good crop about once every three or four years. Apricots also are short-lived. Trees typically survive for 15 to 20 years.

The lower leaves on my African violet have turned yellow and become droopy. What could be wrong?

The symptoms suggest the African violet may have root rot. Root rot symptoms initially develop on the lower leaves. The lower leaves turn yellow and droop. As the root rot progresses, affected leaves turn brown and become mushy. Over time, the symptoms spread upward. Plants may eventually die if growing conditions are poor and no corrective actions are taken.

Root rots are usually caused by overwatering. African violets prefer an evenly moist soil. They don’t like wet or dry potting soils. In wet situations, root rot fungi gradually destroy the African violet’s roots, causing the plant to decline.

Prevention is the best defense against root rot. Allow the soil surface to dry to the touch before watering African violets. Also, select a light, well-drained potting mix when potting or repotting African violets.

Several houseplants that were brought indoors in fall are dropping leaves. Why?

When plants are brought indoors in fall they often drop leaves. Environmental conditions indoors are less favorable than those outdoors. The less favorable growing conditions are stressful to plants. Plants respond to this stress by dropping leaves. It usually takes plants one to two months to adjust to the indoor environment when brought indoors in fall. Leaf drop may occur during this one to two-month period.

Plants will be able to adjust to their indoor environment fairly quickly if they receive good, consistent care. Poor or inconsistent care will prolong the adjustment period.