I have rhododendrons that grow near black walnuts. The black walnuts killed some before I discovered the problem and killed the walnuts. I just girdled the walnut trees. It took them three years to die and after over 15 years they are just now beginning to fall over. The rhododendrons in the area are coming back strong and healthy. I think that if you do as you say and remove the leaves, nuts, etc., they will be OK. I can't imagine the dripping rain water is that bad. The live roots are what did mine in. I think it is worth a try.

Patty!!!! I had to save the BEST for last... I don't even know what to say except thank you so much for showing me your sweet babies in pots! I knew you could do such a great job and your trees testify to the integrity and love you show them...Marvelous !! I love them all..None are my favorite but the story behind the two you thought were goners impresses me so... Amazing and look at the fruit... Look at the mix too..You certainly know the meaning of using a great mix that holds moisture more than what some of us are use to but not too much...One that encourages GREAT root growth and one that is stable for your trees. You have figured out what is good to use for your area and everyone trying to grow under your conditions should take what you use to heart.. But it is not just the mix that prove how wonderful you can grow trees in pots, but your dedication and hard work you put into them. You gave those trees a chance to live when many others would of given them up for dead and now they reward you with such beauty. I am very proud of you and if I lived near you, you would be my citrus buddy and mentor... I can't thank you enough for thinking of me and us, and in sharing your gorgeous trees!! Have a wonderful night and please be safe.. By the way, it means a lot to me that you would post Kumquats specifically:-))))) That is my next choice of tree once I can afford it:) Mike:-)

I grew borage last year and had no problems with it. I have heard that it will reseed, but nothing about it taking over or acting "invasive". I reseeded some as I had a couple of plants come up late in the summer. We'll see if they come back this spring. I hope so. Borage and Basil seemed to do well next to my tomato plants. Cilantro was a bit invasive. I also didn't have any issues with onions. I would not recommend marigolds as they attracted spider mites. The only thing that I found that worked was to spray them down with high-pressure water from the hose at least twice a week.

Do not add soil to the top of what you have. You'll bury the root flare. You will need to do a full repot but not right now in the heat.