Q. I have a Norfolk pine, 5 years old, over 6 feet tall with full branches. Seeing how it is mature do I still have to bring it indoors when the temperature falls below 50 degrees at night? — M. Connor, Virginia Beach
A. Your question is a timely one. For as sure as you are to see poinsettias out-and-about in the next couple weeks, I’m already seeing those miniature Norfolk Island Pines decorated-up with holiday ribbon and such. Rest assured that you are not alone struggling with how and when to move yourno so miniature anymore Norfolk Islander back inside for winter.
Araucaria heterophylla is a member of the conifer family Araucariaceae, and it is native to Norfolk Island, between New Zealand and New Caledonia, in the South Pacific. During his second “voyage of discovery” to the area, British explorer Captain James Cook took note of expansive forests of the symmetrical, straight trees — some reaching 60 meters-plus in height. These he thought would be excellent as masts or sailing vessels. Fortunately (for the trees) it turned out that the wood was not resilient enough for this particular application. Two points: Little did Capt. Cook know these giants would one day become a popular houseplant or a Christmas decoration.
Norfolk Island Pine is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but unfortunately not here in Tidewater. It may be “mature,” but nevertheless, it is a tropical plant. To be on the safe side, you should bring it inside whenever temperatures drop below 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to temperatures lower and this can result in physiological damage, depending on the severity and time of exposure to the cold. To be sure, we will still have some nice fall weather before you have to go all-indoors with it. On days and nights when the temperatures are above this range, it will surely enjoy the patio.
Q. I’ve read about using coffee grounds to enhance gardening. Now, I’ve decided to start saving them. How can I use them effectively? — Ann House, Virginia Beach
A. Coffee grounds can be best used in a couple of ways. If you don’t have a compost pile, they can be added directly to your beds. Rake back your mulch, spread lightly over the soil surface and gently work-in. Next, rake back the mulch. If you have an area you are just beginning to use, they can be cultivated-in more deeply. Be advised that they are somewhat hydrophobic. Like peat moss, once they dry out, they can be difficult to re-wet, so avoid letting this happen.
If you do keep a compost pile, they are a welcome addition. At 2%, they are a good source of nitrogen to keep your compost decomposition going. A little bit, but not too much. The ideal carbon to nitrogen ratio for the compost pile is 25 to 30 parts carbon to 1 part of nitrogen by weight. Coffee grinds have a 20-1 C: N ratio, helping balance the other compost materials on the higher carbon to nitrogen side. Grounds should be layered into your compost pile just as your leaves, grass clippings and other ingredients. Contrary to popular opinion, coffee grounds, while slightly acidic in pH, will not appreciably impact your soil pH. While you are at it, your coffee filters can be layered in as well, but are best shredded for fastest decomposition. Every little bit helps.
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