Q:We planted a poinciana seven years ago but it still hasn't bloomed.

J.W., via e-mail

A: Royal poinciana trees planted from seeds may take up to eight years to bloom. Grafted trees bloom sooner. Make sure your tree is getting full sun and is not fertilized with a high nitrogen fertilizer. Most commonly planted tropical flowering trees bloom best when kept dry during the dry season.

Q:My avocados bloomed but I'm not getting any fruit this year. What's wrong?

D.J., Kendall

A: Every once in awhile, insects such as thrips and myrids cause damage to avocado flowers. These tiny insects are difficult to see and are usually not a problem. However, this year they were.

There is nothing that can be done now since flowering is finished for most avocados.

To learn more about caring for avocado trees, read this UF fact sheet: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/MG213.

Q:I have some bugs I need identified. Where should I send them for a correct diagnosis?

A.H., Hialeah

A: Since you live in Miami-Dade County, you can send samples to the UF/Miami-Dade County Extension office. Send undamaged (live or dead) insects in a crush-proof container such as a pill bottle or film canister with the top taped on. Mail them in a padded envelope or box with a brief note explaining where you found the insects.

Do not tape insects to paper or place them loose in envelopes. Insect fragments or crushed insect samples are almost impossible to identify.

If you live in another county, look up your local cooperative extension service in the blue pages in the phone book under county government.

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