Question
I planted a mimosa tree, first year I almost lost it because of the bad snow. But it came back, now this is the second year, its growing like a bush, lots of limbs but long and tall looking slinky.  Should I trim it down to make it like a bush? It hasn't gotten any flowers on it. Will it get flowers? Also is it a delicate plant that can't stand the winter? Thanks for any information.

Answer
Hi Debbie,
Thanx for your question.  Mimosa is hardy to the warmer part of Zone 5.  It should be okayi n your area.  If it survived last winter, I wouldn't worry about it.  It will come across and weak and spindly looking the first couple years.  A lot of times, mimosa will grow from several outgrowths.  You can select one and remove the others.  Select the hardiest, healthiest one.  I would let it grow unmolested for a couple years and cut off any side growths you don't want.  It will flower in about 3 or 4 years from seed.  You don't need to mulch it but you can if you like with a nice layer of straw in the late fall.  I hope this helps.
Tom