I have noticed that this time of year info can be slow to get on this forum. The most knowledgeable people are busy doing and don't have much time to talk about it. If you don't get all the info you want try again in January & February. I want to develop a solid organic type pest control program too. As for your pruning, you have not given any info that indicates that there is anything wrong with your method. However, one thing I might suggest, given how tall it is you might want to cut back your central leader so you don't have to deal with apples so high. Not only that, but the upper portion is probably not very strong. If you cut the central leader one or more top buds will shoot out a new leader. So make sure it is just one and going straight up and let it go, but revisit each spring for pruning. I wish I had included leader trimming in my yearly pruning from year one. Start looking at your leader now to pick that prune point so it is well thought out when you get there.

Never enough Gandle, but appreciate whatever you do share. You think the details would only be of interest to your family, but bet many hear would love to hear more. I would. That guy is just wonderful. I'm so happy you got all that information and that you now know that the tombstones are in good shape. One worry alleviated. I do hope you get to go there and check it out for yourselves this summer. It sure would be great to touch that old handle again, but even just to be around those fields again. I can just feel it. The energy of your ancestors.

Lisaclv...thanks for the link...great pics. I've grown a few kinds,and they all did very well,and are good offset producers,with the original plant holding its shape and color long after it blooms. One of my "easy" growers. There is one I prefer,Ae.'parati',which has a nice shape similar to an Ae.chantinii,and develops a nice purple/red color with silver bars when exposed to a lot of sunshine.The one thing that was a good clue in catkim's post, was how the bloom appeared like overnite. All mine did the same,so I guess its a trait of this particular plant. Surprise !! This aechema could easily be mistaken for a billbergia when young,and before blooming. Bob C.

My friend stuck Hosta leaves in root tone and poked them into the ground around a tree. every one of them rooted - I couldn't believe it. I've had good luck with divisions but seed and rooting leaves is new for me. I'll for sure try the seeds this year. With over 35 trees in my acre yard, Hosta are a mainstay for me. Here is a link that might be useful: Garden tips, birding, plant and art articles