Moraine Locust Leaves on Asparagus & Pruning Timing for Zone 5 Trees

1. Moraine locust (Gleditsia triacanthos 'Moraine') leaves on asparagus: The leaves are high in tannins but not allelopathic. More likely, the leaf layer stayed too wet, causing crown rot. Also, check if your asparagus is a disease-resistant variety (e.g., 'Jersey Knight')—older varieties succumb to fusarium wilt. The 2012 winter drought may have stressed plants too.

2. Pruning timing for Zone 5 (S. Michigan):

• Best: Late winter/early spring (February–March) before bud break. Dormant pruning minimizes stress and disease entry.
• Maples, birches, walnuts: Prune in late summer/early fall to avoid heavy spring sap bleeding.
• Avoid: Late spring (active growth), mid-winter (extreme cold), and late summer (stimulates tender growth).
• Dead/damaged branches: Remove anytime.

Consult a pruning guide (Ortho, Sunset) for species-specific techniques. Always use clean, sharp tools.