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“Yard choices” #753559

Asked June 02, 2021, 2:54 PM EDT

First of all, thank you for taking my question! Two easy questions…… I have approximately 12 “Easy Elegance” Roses along my front k for the past 8-10 years Each Spring it seems that 4-6 of them don’t come back while others flourish. I’ve replaced a couple locations at least 3x’s….I’m careful with the sidewalk salt, and it seems that the plants closer to the driveway don’t do as well…..I’m wondering if the concrete “super-cools” the soil near this area? I’ve got Boxwood which despite neighborhood dog marking have not suffered losses. Second is a replacement “screen tree” to replace my Betula Dakota which were killed by BB Borer. I’m looking for a suitable replacement (under 30’, narrow, less than 10’ and something I can prune so that I can walk underneath for side of house access! Thanks! Scott<personal data hidden>

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

We can't account for the demise of the Easy Elegance roses.  This cultivar grows on its own root and the root is hardy in the Twin Cities area.  So, although old stems often die over winter, new growth typically emerges from the crown to restore the plant.  We don't know whether nearby concrete conducts enough cold to stress the roots but based upon your experience we'd advise against trying to grow Easy Elegance roses there.

Several columnar crabapples might be suitable replacements for the birch. 

https://images.app.goo.gl/e3JEFaEhud65rkGu6

Or consider Crimson Pointe Purple Leaf Plum or Kindred Spirit oak.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 05, 2021, 12:02 PM EDT
Awesome……thanks for the response….!

My other thought is maybe the Easy Elegance are being marked by dogs in that area over the winter and that is what is killing them…….uncertain…..

Thanks for the the suggestions!

Scott A. Nelson


> On Jun 5, 2021, at 11:02, Ask Extension <askextension> wrote:
> 
> Crimson Pointe Purple Leaf Plum</askextension>
The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2021, 12:37 PM EDT

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