Tree and Lawn Care News & Information

Seasonal Information Including Advances in Plant Health Care, General Tree Care Techniques, New Lawn Care Treatments, Fruit Tree Care, Organic Weed Control & more:

THE NEXT STEP IN ORGANIC CARE
Edible trees and shrubs? This may seem far-fetched, but the line is blurring between landscape care services and agricultural cultivation. The reason for the blurring can be traced to consumers preferences.

There is a great movement toward the consumption of organic foods and products in our country. According to Consumer Reports "nearly two-thirds of U.S. consumers bought organic foods in 2005, up from about half in 2004." So why are more and more people buying organic food? Some say it tastes better, some that it's more nutritious, better for the environment and the farmer, and many because organic foods are grown without the use of certain synthetic materials. Some consumers also want to extend these benefits into their home, garden and landscape.

Scientific studies continue to evaluate the overall properties and benefits of organic foods and goods. To protect consumers, food products certified as USDA organic must meet strict government regulations in the way they are cultivated, handled and processed. The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a nonprofit organization that reviews substances for use in organic production. It provides guidance on the suitability of material inputs under the USDA National Organic Program Standards.

As a company, we proudly provide stewardship for the properties we serve and the environment. We regularly evaluate new products and their efficacy. Better organic alternatives are being developed to treat adverse conditions in the landscape all the time. Over the years SavATree has incorporated many of these organic products, so that our program now includes the latest in naturally derived and biorational ingredients. While many companies are making claims that they are organic too, we realize that similar to what happened with foods and the USDA certified organic standard, consumers are looking for piece of mind with regard to their landscape care. To that end, we are excited to offer a program that exclusively uses ingredients allowed by the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) and is consistent with organic land care practices. We are further testing products approved by OMRI (OMRI listed fertilizer is already successfully utilized in our organic lawn care program) and in some cases seeking their approval of products we currently use, which have yet to be evaluated.

So if you decide to eat the fruit from your Kousa Dogwood or flowers from your Red Bud, you may be happy to learn that one day it may be certified organic too! The outlook is certainly promising for furthering the use of certified organic programs in landscape beautification and preservation.


THE HISTORY AND MODERN USES OF BARK
Similar to skin, bark is the outer covering of a tree. It adapts to protect the living tree from the environment, and protects delicate tissues from diseases and insect attack. It is composed of non-living tissue on the outside and living tissue on the inside.

Practical Uses - From containers to spices, bark can be used to create a variety of items. For hundreds of years, people of the Amazon basin have harvested the fibers from tree bark. Bark was originally prepared by air drying and pounding it with a mallet on a smooth stone until it became supple. After it hardened, it was split into pliable long strips. The strips were then woven together to create baskets, containers, and an assortment of other objects. Cinnamon is the inner bark from trees of the Laurel family, specifically Cinnamomum zeylanicum, native to southern India and Sri Lanka.

Canoes and Cork - Bark was also used to create magnificent canoes and corks. Canoes have been in use for over 3000 years. The first Canadian canoes were made with paper birch bark. The canoes took many hours of manual labor to complete, and they proved to be incredibly durable. The process of cork making was much easier. First, the outer bark was removed without any tree damage. Next, the cork was boiled, stacked and left outside to flatten for three weeks.

Spiritual - Many people are surprised to learn that there was a deep spiritual movement involving bark. Years ago, people believed that spring and summer were the best months to remove bark from red and yellow cedar trees. They believed that the yellow trees were superior to the red trees because they had greater strength. Before they stripped the bark, they began praying to the tree asking for its "dress" to transform into fiber for baskets or clothing. In Australia, shelters made out of bark were covered in spiritual paintings for sacred purposes.

Clothing - Few people realize that in certain areas of the world, bark has been used for years to create extravagant clothing. South America, Africa, Japan and South East Asia were all pioneers in the creation of bark clothing. Bark was made into skirts, belts, headdresses, caps, capes, blankets, mats, and other articles of clothing. Wearing bark clothing was a sign of wealth.

Medicinal - There is an enormous amount of research being conducted in the medical field to determine the benefits of bark. Researchers recently declared that anti inflammatory compounds called phenolics found in the bark of Scotch pine may prove effective in fighting arthritis (Scotch pine is the number one selling Christmas tree). Researchers also believe that the pine bark extract can potentially treat other health problems such as high blood pressure, asthma and heart disease.

The alkaloid quinine extracted from the root and trunk bark of the Cinchona, native to the South American Andes, is still the most effective remedy against malaria. A hundred million people each year are infected by malaria.

In Europe, the willow bark extract is currently being prescribed to treat lower back pain. A popular anesthetic, tubocurarine, is extracted from bark. A few cancer drugs are also extracted from bark. For example, the South African cape bush willow supplies treatments for lung and ovarian cancer. Another interesting fact about bark is that the main ingredient in aspirin, salicylic acid, is obtained from poplar and willow bark.


COMPANY NEWS: BELIZE
Ten of SavATree's top arborists recently went on an ecotour of the eastern coast of Belize. Our focus for this year's trip was to explore the underwater ecosystem of the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere, but of course being tree people, we checked out the rain forest too!

We were in good company this year, with Belize hosting over 200,000 tourists in the last twelve months, about half of which are from the US. Tourism makes up between 20 ­ 25% of the Belize GDP, with agriculture being the majority of the balance.

We stayed at the Hamanasi, an ecotourism destination in Dangriga, Stann Creek, and felt immediately at home in the lush green surroundings, especially the tree houses! Our group's tree identifications skills were challenged by the many species we viewed both on site and during our land excursions.

Our ocean exploration began by splitting up into two groups for snorkeling and scuba diving. The diving operators are well trained in reef protection, and we were instructed on how to explore the barrier reef without disturbing the various families of fish and beautiful coral. We saw several large stingrays as they frolicked in the sand below our boats.

Belize land excursions included a waterfall hike up the Antelope Falls, tropical birding, and a not-to-be-missed climb to the top of an ancient pyramid in the Mayan ruin of Xunantunich. We highly recommend Belize as a vacation spot for those that enjoy exploring nature and history.


GREEN-UP: BECOMING AN E-CUSTOMER
Paper costs are soaring and as our company grows we are consuming more trees in print communications. Consistent with our environmentally sensible mission, we would like to migrate to electronic communications with our valued clients. Please consider providing us with your email address so that we may begin communicating with you electronically.

Help us Save Trees! Provide your email address by visiting www.savatree.com/savepaper

Email Promise

1. We will never share your email address with anyone, ever.

2. We will endeavor to convert most of our communication to electronic format by the end of 2006.

3. When our payment system is available online, you will have the option to opt in. You will not be automatically enrolled.

4. We will always include honest description "subject" messages so that you can easily choose to read or delete.

5. We will respect your wishes and switch your account to "paper only" if you prefer, at any time.


UNDERSTANDING FUNGI THAT INFECT TREES
Toadstools, puffballs, dwarf benches and mushrooms are just a few of the names given to describe some of the fungi that can be affecting the health of your trees.

Formerly thought of as a group of simple plants lacking chlorophyll, fungi are now classified as a separate kingdom of living organisms. Fungi cause disease when a spore germinates on a susceptible host under the appropriate environmental conditions, producing hyphae (threads of fungal tissue) that enter and feed on the host.

Tree diseases caused by fungi can be broken down into four broad categories:

Root and Butt Rot Diseases - The diseases in this category infect and kill roots and cause decay of the roots and trunks of trees. These diseases can seriously impair the structural integrity of the trees they infect resulting in total tree failure often with little advanced notice.

Canker Diseases - These diseases commonly enter through wounds or branch stubs. The pathogen infects the bark tissue resulting in a sunken or discolored area of bark on branches or stems. Since many canker infections originate through branch stubs, the use of proper pruning techniques is very important in the prevention of canker diseases.

Foliar / Shoot Diseases - These types of diseases are some of the most commonly encountered plant diseases. Symptoms range from small spots to large blotches on leaves and needles and death of entire leaves, needles and shoots. Impact to plant health from foliar and shoot diseases can range from minor aesthetic damage to death of entire plants.

Vascular Wilts - Trees die quickly when wilts invade their vascular system, interrupting the transport of water and nutrients.

Management Options - Since fungal tree diseases cannot be treated in a curative fashion, management efforts must focus on prevention. The best defense against tree pathogens is a healthy tree. Tree and site selection, watering during periods of drought, and regular maintenance fertilization are the keys to maintaining healthy landscape trees. Fungicides are technical materials that control certain foliar/shoot diseases by inhibiting the growth of fungi when applied preventively (before infection occurs).

An integrated plant management (IPM) program such as SavATree's Arbor Patrol Program incorporates cultural, biological, and chemical control measures through routine monitoring of both the trees and pathogens. The selection of the appropriate method(s) of control is based upon the overall impact of the disease on plant health and landscape aesthetics.

This overview of the fungi that infect trees barley scratches the surface of the fungal world. Please consult with your arborist to determine the best course of action to protect your landscape.


FEATURE TREE: JAPANESE MAPLE
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) are perhaps one of the most vibrant and familiar trees in our area. Their spectacular seasonal color, leaf variation, diverse shape, size and texture add richness to many landscapes. Due to their versatility and range of characteristics, one doesn't have to look far to find a Japanese maple to fit their landscape needs. Properly selected, Japanese maples can flourish in various settings including sun, shade; in gardens, containers and bonsai.

The Japanese have cultivated the maple since the early 1600¹s. Currently there are hundreds of different Japanese maples. Growers continue to breed the maples ensuring exciting new hybrids. The main groups we will focus on here are the upright and the weeping lace-leaf maple.

The foliage of both the upright maple and the lace leaf maple can be intense fire red, deep cherry, maroon, dark orange, bold green or even variegated (variegation occurs from the plants lack of chlorophyll production and can range from subtle specks on the leaves to whole leaves being pink-white-yellow). Depending on the cultivar, spectacular color changes can be seen throughout the spring, summer and fall including shades of orange, deep gold and purple, a breathtaking display. In some varieties, the barks of these two maples also can be red, green or spotted providing unique winter interest in a landscape.

The upright maple makes a grand statement standing between 15' and 30' tall with a unique branching effect. It makes a wonderful ornamental tree that can be trained, through pruning, to maintain its form and size. In contrast, lace leaf maples (Acer palmatum var. dissectum), which rarely stand more than 5 feet tall, are characterized by their striking weeping/ cascading form and serrated leaves.

Although Japanese maples appear delicate they are actually quite hardy and fairly easy to grow and maintain. The Japanese Maple adapts well to most soils, but the soil should drain well to avoid excessive root moisture. Regular watering of young trees is important, whereas mature maples can withstand dry spells. Japanese maples have few pest or disease issues, further adding to their appeal. When selecting a maple remember to consider size, form, shape, color combinations and planting location to achieve the most dramatic and harmonious effect on your property.


ARBORICULTURE AND THE LAW - RIGHT TO A VIEW
Trees have legal rights too. A series dedicated to frequently asked questions involving trees, zoning and municipal regulations.

Right to A View - Part of your home purchase decision was based on the beautiful view of the river below. Now, years later, your neighbor's tree has grown so large it obscures your view. Do you have a right to any remedy?

Unfortunately, the general rule is that a property owner has no right to light, air or unobstructed view. At times private parties, homeowner associations or planned communities establish easements/covenants to control tree and building size to protect existing views. In some cases coast line cities or those with other sought-after landscapes may have an ordinance in place to protect a homeowner's vista from overgrowing trees.

There isn't much recourse, but you can try to politely approach your neighbor, explain the impeding situation and offer to prune the tree or replace it with a smaller one.

The information contained in this article is for informational purpose only. Laws regarding trees vary among communities and states and are ever-changing. If you have an unresolved issue regarding your trees you may want to consult your attorney.


CONTEMPORARY LAWNS AND ALTERNATIVES
Lawns provide many functions and benefits ranging from recreational to environmental. Lawns are aesthetically pleasing and the backdrop for our landscape.

But where did the notion of a manicured lawn come from? Lawns in America became popular during the 19th century. They were first discovered in England where lush lawns symbolized land ownership and wealth. America's attraction to a beautiful lawn and higher social status pressed the development of better seed varieties, watering methods and behold the lawn mower. With the help of technology and publicized lawn care education, the American lawn took root.

The lawn as we know it however is just one type of ground cover. With rising concern over fuel dependency, water supply and the environment, many homeowners are opting for smaller lawns and instituting naturalscapes, gardens and meadows.

Where to begin? Your landscape should be a reflection of your lifestyle, designed for your comfort and enjoyment. You may want to first consider areas on your property which are particularly shady, sloped or damp. These are usually better suited for ground covers, perennials, ferns or ornamental grasses. These plants are versatile, low maintenance and add interest to the landscape with their varied shapes, shades, texture and heights.

You can also add an array of vibrant colors and fragrance to your property by transforming a lawn that is not utilized to flower beds and shrubs. If mowing is an issue, consider converting extra turf into a wildflower lawn or meadow. While the initial planning, research, installation and maintenance can be somewhat involved in developing a successful meadow area, the results are well worth the effort months and years later when flowers bloom, new wild life moves in and mowing is reduced to only once per season.

There are many lovely planting options available to compliment your landscape. You will want to ensure that the proper plants/ grasses are selected for your garden's growing condition and that they receive the proper nutrients. So, whether you are enhancing or converting your lawn, consulting with your arborist can help your vision become a reality. Depending on your goals and the intricacies of your project, you may also want to consult with a landscape architect or landscape designer.




Our certified arborists and plant health care specialists are delighted to share their knowledge of seasonal landscape maintenance regarding your lawn, garden, organic weed control, shrub pruning, fertilizing ornamentals and trees that fruit. Tree care and lawn care issues may seem challenging, but by consulting your arborists in addition to reading about region-specific tree and lawn care issues that affect your property, you will always stay informed and have a beautiful, safe, and healthy lawn!

We hope that our seasonal tips will be useful when you are planning your landscape for the current season. Seasonal information including the latest research on tree diseases, environmental sensibility, new lawn and tree equipment, fruit tree care and organic weed control are all covered in this section. For additional seasonal recommendations on fertilizing, pruning, cultivating fruit, tree care, going organic, weed control and other landscape tips, please contact us.

SavATree and SavaLawn is fully insured and licensed according to the laws that govern each state in which we provide tree and lawn care services, fruit tree care services and organic weed control services.

Click or call today for a complimentary consultation from one of our fully trained and certified professionals to care for all of your lawn and tree care needs. Click here to contact the office nearest you.