If they are hanging on a tree limb, they're just tired. Give them their space and they will usually leave within a day or two after they've had their rest.
If they don't leave after a few days, or if they have taken up residence inside a structure, you will probably want to contact a beekeeper for bee removal services. Bee removal services to homeowners and commercial sites are part of a beekeeper's business, so you should expect to pay a fee to have a swarm removed.
Do give the bees every chance, since bees are an important resource and shouldn't be needlessly exterminated. Here's a link to more information on local bee removal services:
http://uccemg.com/General-Gardening/?uid=4&ds=548
Then go to a reputable nursery and have a discussion with someone there who can help you choose a tree that will grow to the right size for the location you have. Keep in mind that without pruning, even though a tree is called a dwarf, it still may grow to be twelve or fifteen feet high.
Citrus and avocado trees will need at least 8 hours of sun a day and a good source of water. Avocado trees are notoriously messy and like to have the leaves they shed in the late winter left on the ground to act as mulch.
Do your homework to make sure that the time and effort you put into planting a new tree will pay off with lots of rewarding fruit in the years ahead.
They will soon have finished blooming whether they are Japonicas or Sasanquas. If they have grown too tall or lanky they can be pruned just like any other woody shrub.
Open up dense overgrown interiors to allow air good circulation. Cut back any watersprouts that shoot straight up from branches. Cut stems flush with cross branches so that you don't leave any stubs that will end up dying.
Step back and check your work occasionally and always aim for a balanced and symmetrical plant.
You can also feed your camellias with a food specified for acidic plants, mulch them and then just let them grow all summer until it time for them to bloom next fall and winter.
Is it being a bit presumptuous that you even have a love of technology? Well maybe this will act as an introduction for you.
There are a number of applications on the market for your smart phone or tablet that cater to the backyard gardener that you might find useful. All these apps will work on universal platforms.
- Garden Plan Pro:A large plant database and calendar will help you identify what you would like to plant and when to plant it. Crop rotation help and weather information for your area makes this an essential for both the casual and the serious gardener. A bit pricey at $7.99
- Garden Compass Plant and Disease Identifier: When preparing to start a garden, it is essential to know what you are planting. If you are not sure, simply take a photo of a plant and Garden Compass will tell you what it is. There are over 1,000 pictures, as well as the ability to share your photos over social networks. This app is free.
- Garden Minder: This app features built in how-tos and reminders for vegetable gardens to ensure that you will plant your largest harvest to date. There is also a handy journal for you to keep pictures and take notes in. This app is free.
The purpose is to increase the awareness and understanding of the importance of soil for food security and ecosystem functions. For more information go to the International Year of Soils set up by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
Meanwhile, what have you done to contribute to your soil lately? You might want to begin by having your soil tested to see if it is lacking in any of the basic components, or add a soil amendment, or improve your drainage.
The UCCE Orange County Master Gardeners offer information on all kinds of soil issues at the following website: Soil Management. Good luck and enjoy celebrating your soil this year!