In all places, then, and in all seasons,

Flowers expand their light and soul-like wings,

Teaching us by most persuasive reasons

How akin they are to human things.

-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

2020 New Years Tree Resolutions

Often we fail to follow up on most of the resolutions we make each December for the coming year. However, it is still worthwhile to take some time to engage in the thoughtful process of developing goals for various aspects of our lives. Here are some suggestions for honoring and supporting the trees in your yard.

Start learning the species names of your trees.

Examine tree bark for Spotted Lanternfly egg masses.

Schedule at least one visit from a certified arborist to evaluate the health and location of existing trees.

Arrange to have hazardous branches and dead or dangerous trees removed promptly.

Plant more trees, especially native types.

Water all trees faithfully when dry weather arrives.

Protect tree trunks and roots from weed trimmers, lawnmowers, deer damage and winter salt water runoff.

Thank the trees each season for their service: beauty, shade, rainwater management, wildlife support, soil stabilization, oxygen production and dried leaves for mulch to protect and improve soil.

Cardinals at Christmas

A perfect decorative wildlife image for the holidays, the northern cardinal is everywhere this time of year. Images of these gorgeous birds, the males known for their stunning deep red feathers, appear on Christmas cards, yard decorations, tree ornaments, mailboxes, blankets, dinnerware and numerous other items. Are there live ones in your yard? I hope so. James Audubon noted that In richness of plumage, elegance of motion, and strength of song this species surpasses all of its kindred in the United States. As our climate has warmed over the decades, and more and more local homeowners have put out feeders loaded with sunflower seeds, this southern bird has become totally comfortable in northern regions. Your landscape trees will act as forest edges, the preferred habitat for cardinals, while an assortment of other native landscape plants will provide accessible natural food during the growing season.

Do you know?

Our yards are not only a gift to wildlife throughout the year. By planting trees that hold the soil and have foliage canopies that manage rainfall, and by developing and maintaining a yard that is also rich in diverse plantings that foster diverse wildlife, we are contributing to the health and welfare of our neighborhoods and community as well.

Wood ashes from the fireplace or firepit are alkaline and very high in potassium and trace elements. Spread on soil they will reduce its acidity a bit.

Houseplants

These are difficult days for our indoor plants. First, they have been having to adjust to less natural light as the days have grown shorter this month. Secondly, they probably have been temporarily moved from their newly comfortable indoor spots to make temporary room for decorative holiday plants such as poinsettias. Then some of their temporary holiday locations may lack light or be too close to heating vents that reduce desirable humidity. Once the holiday decorations are removed and packed away, take time to consider the best locations for these plants that will be giving you comfort and even some indoor air quality during the winter. Plants that currently or eventually will bloom indoors such as amaryllis bulbs, orchids, African violets and begonias will need at least bright light, but not necessarily full sun, for several hours daily. Foliage plants such as ivy, ferns, succulents, palms, and philodendron, can manage with indirect light. Remember, as the winter progresses, the length and angle of sunlight changes so these locations may have to be adjusted during these months. It is worth the effort though, to help our resident plants to resist pest problems. Then we can enjoy the morale lift that they provide.

2020 Liz Ball

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Yardening: New Year's resolutions for the trees in your yard - The Delaware County Daily Times

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