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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Wednesday - April 28, 2010

From: PLANO, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders, Trees
Title: Need help diagnosing a problem with Bur Oak in Plano, TX
Answered by: Jimmy Mills

QUESTION:

I planted a bur oak 8 or 9 years ago. It has grown beautifully until this year. When opening, the leaves are very small (a couple inches) and there are lots of seeds (catkins?). I would hate to lose this tree.

ANSWER:

Mr. Smarty Plants has found that is very difficult, if not impossible, to diagnose plant problems from a written description. You need to have some one to look at the tree in order to determine what the problem is. My suggestion is to contact the folks at the Collin County AgriLife Extension Office, or consult  a certified arborist in your area, or both.

 

 

 

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