Tips for the gardener

Crab apple trees with leaves now turning orange and dropping off suffer from a disease called apple scab.

Spraying becomes unfeasible on large trees.

Consider replacing old crab apple cultivars severely affected by scab with newer, resistant varieties, says the Maryland Home & Garden Information Center.

Remove fading rose blossoms to promote a new flush of buds.

Water roses during dry spells, but avoid getting leaves wet, especially in the evening.

Use a granular, slow-release fertilizer formulated for roses.