Archive for January, 2010

What Is Up With the American Elm?

Published by Mr. Tree on January 29th, 2010 - in Arborist, Plant Health Care, Trees

Few trees are as easily identified and loved as the American elm. Widely used as a shade and street tree because of its graceful vase-like growth, there was a time when nary a mid western or New England town was without an elm-lined Main Street. If Dutch elm disease hadn’t come along I would say this is the best street tree – ever!  It’s a sturdy tree with a high canopy and a super tolerance for salt, compaction and pollution. I remember a winter in the mid 90’s when a rapid change in temperature killed many of the new street trees in Hanover, NH – except for the new elms.

A significant amount of time and expense has gone into the introduction of resistant varieties that show the promise of an “elm revival.”  If you are planning to plant elms, try to mix up cultivars and be awareof their different shapes. And remember that resistance to Dutch elm disease is different than being immune.

Elm

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I Fear My Lawn

Published by Mr. Grass on January 25th, 2010 - in Turf

At this time of year the white frozen landscape can mimic a black and white silent movie bringing on the winter “blahs.” While many folks will cheerfully review seed catalogues seeking color and future planting joy, the middle child (the lawn) is often overlooked.  Many simply think the job is too daunting and large in size to adequately tackle without the help of a professional consultant.  The word professional invokes terror of written plans and costly fees, before any work is even done.

Ironically, it is these same professionals who will save you- the homeowner- considerable lost time, frustration and more importantly, improve your lawn area without the need for pricey renovations.  Very few lawns actually need to be completely renovated such as bringing in new loam and starting from scratch.  A solid turf-building program should start with the soil and work up from there with conditioners, aeration, overseeding, natural fertilizers, and other proven methods.  A green carpet can be yours with proper planning, adding to the enjoyment of your home each and every day.

So while you have those colorful catalogues out and are making joyous plans for a great garden or flower beds, please don’t forget to include the middle child- your lawn!  Our site visits are always complimentary!

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A Winter Landscape Favorite: Witchhazel

Published by Mr. Tree on January 11th, 2010 - in Arborist, Landscaping, Trees

 

 

 

December Bloom of Witchhazel

Common Witchhazel (Hammamnelis virginiana)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Witchhazels are often found in the understory of your local forest. This makes them perfect for naturalization in your borders and woodland edges. This lovely tree/shrub is the last to flower, sometimes as late as December, its yellow bloom contrasted against the snow.


The common witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is happy in the sun or shade, enjoys our acidic soils and is relatively trouble (pest & disease) free. And yes, this is the plant that the medicinal witchhazel comes from, in case your hemorrhoids are bothering you!


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