Norfolk Island palm problem

Q.  There is an old wood pile in the yard of the home we recently bought. This morning I noticed a lot of delicate-looking bugs flying around it. We have no use for the wood. Is there any reason for controlling these bugs?

 A.  The insects are most likely termites. They are swarming which will create new colonies. You may want to control them with an insect spray to prevent any future infestation.

 Q.   I need to re-pot a Norfolk Island palm. Is there a special growing medium it requires?

 A.   It is quite tolerant of many growing mediums. If this is a large plant that you do not want to repot on a regular basis, use a medium with bark mixed into it. The bark will breakdown slowly and retain organic matter which aids to holding water and nutrients.