Q: I am moving up from south Florida. I love Japanese maple, white birch, and poplar trees that I’ve seen in New England. Will I be able to grow any of these in north Georgia?

A: Japanese maple, in all its shapes and colors, will be a thrill for you in North Georgia. However, white birch will not do well in our hot summers. A better bet is river birch. As for poplars, it depends on which one you choose. Populus tremula (aspen) doesn’t like our heat but Populus deltoides (Eastern cottonwood) does fine here. Do some research at local nurseries before spending your money on any tree. Best time to plant is October.