A. Low acorn production can be attributed to several factors. The number of acorns will vary from year to year with different oak tree species since they are affected by insect and animal consumption. The number of acorns produced also can be affected by unfavorable environmental conditions such as late spring frost and summer drought.

Other factors affecting how many acorns will be produced are the size and location of the tree. Smaller trees in shaded locations will have fewer acorns than a larger tree in full sun. Any of these factors could cause an oak tree to fruit heavily one year and very little the next.

Q. For two years, my tomatoes only half-ripen and are hard in the middle. What is going on?

A. The condition you describe sounds like a syndrome known as hard core. It is caused by temperature fluctuations, especially low night temperatures, while the tomato plant is growing. Early maturing tomato varieties are more susceptible to this problem. There are no control measures, since it is weather-related. Next year, try a later-maturing tomato variety and hopefully the weather cooperates.

Q. Is it possible to overwinter iris rhizomes for replanting in spring? If so, what is the best method?

A. It is possible to overwinter iris rhizomes by storing them in dry peat moss in a cardboard box or paper bag at 35 degrees. A refrigerator works be
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