We are now in the height of summer and while we are out having fun and enjoying the weather, something sinister may be happening to your trees.There are several insects that are currently damaging Connecticut forests, and they include the Spongy Moth, Emerald Ash Borer, Asian Long-Horned Beetle, Winter Moth, and Spotted Lanternfly. Add some of the diseases affecting our trees such as, Dutch Elm Disease, Beech Leaf Disease, and chestnut blight, and it’s easy to see that trees need our help. Please take a few moments to review the links we’ve included in the information below which are great resources that include photos.
While we do our best to scout for pests in your turf and on your plantings and trees, we ask that you also become familiar with what is “normal” and what is not when it comes to the living things in and around your property. – Shayne
AUGUST IS TREE CHECK MONTH
August is designated as Tree Check Month, and it is the perfect time to pay extra attention to the trees around you. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of identifying and reporting any signs of pest infestation or disease in trees, which can assist in preventing the spread of harmful insects and protecting our natural environment.
Trees are crucial to our ecosystem, providing oxygen, shade, and homes for wildlife among countless other benefits. Unfortunately, they are also vulnerable to pests and diseases that can cause significant damage and even death. By participating in Tree Check Month, you can learn more about the importance of our trees and the role they play in our environment while also contributing to their conservation. Spotting potential threats early is key and your help ensures that they remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference.
Please take a few minutes to look over the State of Connecticut’s DEEP webpage regarding threats to Connecticut Tree and Forest Health. Identification and control methods are also available at Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and the Arbor Day Foundation. By learning what to look for and taking a few minutes to check your trees, you can help identify any easily ignored early signs that they have taken up residence on your property.
Several recent nationwide surveys show that mature trees in a well-landscaped yard can increase the value of a house by 7% to 19%. A study by a Michigan State professor found that across seven different states, study participants perceived that home value increased from five to 11% for homes with a nice landscape. This is just another reason to care for the trees around us.
As always, please let your landscape consultant know if you see anything of concern.
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HARDSCAPES
Hardscaping is another design element that includes anything that is not vegetation. Most hardscaping materials are natural, such as a gravel driveway, a strategically placed extra-large boulder, or expertly crafted natural stone steps (above). Most hardscaping is very low-maintenance and extremely long-lasting and serve a wide variety of purposes. A fence or wall can add privacy or reduce road noise, pathways and ground lighting keep guests in the correct areas, and overall, professional hardscaping can increase your outdoor living space, control weeds, conserve water, and increase your property value.
Mother Nature’s Annual Fireworks Show
Grab a lawn chair, find a dark spot with no light pollution, and sit back to enjoy the show!. Oh, and don’t forget your bug repellant!
