While it may be out of sight, out of mind, damage is being incurred by high foot or vehicle traffic on your landscape throughout the winter, but is especially concerning now when soils are beginning to thaw. Soil conditions currently range from still being frozen, to being partially thawed and some areas are both frozen…
Spring is just around the corner, although it may not feel that way, and with it will come yard work such as raking, trimming, mowing, weeding, fertilizing, pest and disease control and more. Just remember when you are out and about cleaning up after this harsh winter and preparing your beds and gardens, do not…
Hawaii is not only paradise for people seeking adventure, relaxation, big waves and fun, it is also a haven for invasive species. State legislature in Hawaii has proclaimed the invasives problem “…the single greatest threat to Hawaii’s economy, natural environment and to the health and lifestyle of Hawaii’s people.” Among the offenders are little fire ants,…
Desiccation is injury incurred by plants when water is transpired through leaves faster than it can be uptaken by roots. This is usually caused by extended periods of cold, dry weather, winter winds and/or instances of freezing and thawing. Antidesiccant treatments apply a waxy coating to the leaves of broadleaved evergreens which helps stem water…
This week, February 22-28, is National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW). Events have been organized across the country to help educate the public about the insidiousness of invasive species, the problems they cause and what we can all do to help. Find an event near you and participate and help identify solutions to invasive species issues…
A rain garden is a depression, hole, bucket or pond intentionally created and placed in order to collect rainwater runoff from impervious structures and surfaces like roofs, driveways, parking lots, roads and overly compacted lawns. They help reduce runoff and aid in stormwater infiltration or allow for water to be used for irrigation around the…
A recent study has discovered that hemlocks in New York’s Catskill region are declining rapidly. Research conducted collaboratively by the U.S. Forest Service and the University of Vermont utilized ground-based research in addition to high-tech aerial imaging to survey 274 square miles of the Catskill mountains in 2012. Data suggested that only 16% of the…
As of January 6, 2015 the extent of drought conditions across the U.S. is at its lowest point since December 20, 2011. However, drought conditions in parts of the west and southern plains remain severe. December 2014 brought heavy precipitation to southeastern and eastern portions of the country, significantly reducing levels of abnormal dryness (D0), moderate…
Winter weather extremes can be difficult for plants, wildlife and humans. Landscape plants can incur extensive damage and require appropriate care preceding, during and following an intense winter season. Damage from wildlife, browning and desiccation are the most common issues afflicting plants and trees due to winter weather. Deep snow cover in place for an…
Apple Proliferation Phytoplasma (APP) is a bacterial disease affecting mostly apples although pear trees with proliferation symptoms have been identified, but it has not been positively confirmed that they are suffering from APP. Apple cultivars seem to vary in terms of the degree of their reaction to the disease, Belle de Boskoop, Gravenstein, Starking, Golden Delicious and…
