Question
QUESTION: I bought three arborvitae that are approximately 4 ft. high.  One has been transplanted into another pot until we can decide where to plant it.  The other two were planted within a few feet of each other.  One very rapidly started turning brown with branches that had begun to look limp and lifeless.  It died while I was trying to investigate the problem.  The one in the pot is growing and looking beautiful.  The one planted beside the one that died looks okay but doesn't seem to be growing very much.  Do you have any suggestions as to what could have happened to the one that died?

ANSWER: Betty:

That's a tough one. Not being able to see and examine the plant makes it a head scratcher.  I suspect that it may be related to root stress- e.g. too much or not enough water at transplant time.  These plant are pretty durable, but transplanting care can be crutial.  Just keep soil moist, but able to drain well. I do not think it is an infectious problem, but more related to soil or other environmental conditions.

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QUESTION: This is another question.  I have just repotted a fern.  It is a very delicate, lacy, old-fashioned fern.  I don't know the name of it.  In a few days the fern has turned very yellow.  Could this be the potting soil I used.  I think it might have been Miracle Gro potting soil.  
Another question.  I have had varigated vinca planted as a trailing border on a stone wall for approx. 15 years.  All of a sudden something has stripped the leaves, leaving only the stems.  What in the world is going on?

Thank you so much for your response.  I love this site.  Betty

Answer
Betty:
On the fern, again I suspect a soil issue.  The Miracle Gro products are usually quite good for their purpose. Keep in mind that generally speaking that ferns like consistently moist soils to do their best, but at the same time they like soils that can drain well too. Be sure to give them some filtered sun. Suggest avoiding fertilizer until they get their "feet" on (in)the ground good.

I suspect your vinca has had a visitor--maybe 6 legs or 4! Check the stems/remaining leaves and the ground beneath the plants for any caterpillars or other insects. If you find any insects, collect a few in a plastic bag or bottle and carry them by your local garden center/nursery for an ID and an appropriate insecticide. It might be an animal- look for "poop" on the ground- that might be a good sign- then check into the use of repellents.

Hope this offers some suggestions for your headaches.

Steve