Like most things there is no "general rule" that will fit all types of trees.
The window for pruning trees that tend to "bleed", like grapes, maples and most deciduous trees and some evergreens is close to being over in the Hudson Valley area, but may still be applicable in colder areas. I say that as I begin to see leaves starting to sprout. A sure signal that the leaves are "actively" beginning to grow.
My outdoor Aloe has bloomed again. It seems like this one beautiful cone like yellow flower on a. 2 or 3 foot stem makes a showing every 2 years. The flower only lasts about 2 weeks and as soon as it is fully opened starts dropping its petals. Is that normal?
Aloe Vera plants will bloom if they are 4+ years or older, so thats great for you. Enjoy those 2 weeks, because that is that plants "normal" flowering cycle. As the plant continues to mature you may have taller inflorescences which may last longer, or your plant may produce more than 1 flowering stalk. Once all the flowers are spent, cut the stalk off at the base of the plant to stop it from putting its energy into seed-making, and allow it to put its energy into its root systems.
When should we start pruning and fertilizing the fruit trees?
Like most things there is no "general rule" that will fit all types of trees.
The window for pruning trees that tend to "bleed", like grapes, maples and most deciduous trees and some evergreens is close to being over in the Hudson Valley area, but may still be applicable in colder areas. I say that as I begin to see leaves starting to sprout. A sure signal that the leaves are "actively" beginning to grow.
It is ALWAYS a good time to prune out dead branches on deciduous plants. As plants slowly leaf out you can prune out crossing branches as well. We recommend the AHS Pruning & Training handbook for guidance. https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/the-american-horticultural-society-pruning-and-training-a-fully-illustrated-plant-by-plant-manual-9781564583314?shipto=US&curcode=USD&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhtWvBhD9ARIsAOP0GohXw_KWP-_bRZYfg7QWrEWVSQT80YWrhW2ycGGkx4_5_7h5wSRADnMaApBREALw_wcB
My outdoor Aloe has bloomed again. It seems like this one beautiful cone like yellow flower on a. 2 or 3 foot stem makes a showing every 2 years. The flower only lasts about 2 weeks and as soon as it is fully opened starts dropping its petals. Is that normal?
Aloe Vera plants will bloom if they are 4+ years or older, so thats great for you. Enjoy those 2 weeks, because that is that plants "normal" flowering cycle. As the plant continues to mature you may have taller inflorescences which may last longer, or your plant may produce more than 1 flowering stalk. Once all the flowers are spent, cut the stalk off at the base of the plant to stop it from putting its energy into seed-making, and allow it to put its energy into its root systems.