DATE:   10/24/96
WRITER: Bob Polomski, (864) 656-2604

                 Transplanting African Violets
                                
     Q:  I have two African violets that have two plants in each
pot. I would like to transplant the two extra ones, but they are
both blooming. I've heard they shouldn't be transplanted while
they are still in bloom. Any advice?
     A:  African violets can be transplanted at any time, whether
or not they are flowering. Select a shallow pot that is at least
one-third the width of the African violet to be moved. To reduce
transplant shock, separate your African violets when the medium
is on the dry side.

                   Cultivating Ground Covers

     Q:  Due to the heavy shade in much of my yard from oaks,
maples, and sweetgum trees, I have several ground cover plantings
of either periwinkle or English ivy under these trees. It is a
chore to remove the leaves from these beds, but in years when I
initially left the leaves, eventually I removed most of them
because it appeared they were smothering the ground cover plants.
How can I manage them? 
     A:  If you choose to cultivate ground covers in this 
location, you will have to prevent them from being buried by 
fallen leaves. You can blow off the leaves into windrows and
shred them with a lawn mower. Then, return them to the bed as an
attractive mulch. Shredding the leaves beforehand reduces their
volume, increases surface area to speed-up decomposition, and
keeps them secured to the soil surface.  
     If harvesting and shredding the leaves proves to be a
daunting chore, transplant the ground covers and allow the leaves
to fall naturally in place. To convince your neighbors that not
raking your leaves is a conscientious decision, border this area
with timbers, stones or turf to impart a natural, forested design
to your landscape.
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     If you have gardening questions or comments, write to 
Agricultural News & Publications, A-101 Poole Agricultural
Center, Box 340311, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29634-0311.
                               END