Tree pruning at Olga's - Saturday 3/26

We were lucky to have the opportunity to work on the trees at Olga's Cup & Saucer this weekend... If you don't already know, Olga's is a great little bakery/eatery/coffee shop at Point and Richmond Streets in Providence's recently re-named 'Knowledge District' (aka Jewelry District). The landscape was designed and installed by Michael Veracka a dozen or so years ago, and is anchored by a large pre-existing Siberian Elm. Two beautiful Apricots grace the entrance, and pear trees, viburnum, and an evergreen Magnolia round out the larger plantings. The Elm needed lots of deadwood removed, as well as some structural cables installed. The ornamentals received some crown cleaning and clearance and structural pruning. It turned out to be a nice day (eventually), and I am very happy to be able to care for such landmark trees in Providence! Check out our photos at: https://www.facebook.com/album.php?id=120817834652032&aid=33452

Spring tree needs part I

So, Spring is just days away, and it's time to start thinking about the yard and garden. A big problem for the past few years here in Rhode Island has been the winter moth. Read about them here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter_Moth

Luckily, they can be controlled with a natural product called Spinosad (There are at least two trade names for this product including Conserve and Comfortis). Spinosad is a chemical derived from a unique form of bacteria that affects the nervous system of target insects, and has virtually no non-target effects, which we like.

Other concerns this year are broken off stubs or snags left from storm damage. It is important to prune these out to allow trees and shrubs to compartmentalize wounds and limit future decay. There seems to be alot of storm damage this year, so if you see a broken branch on the ground, look up. There's probably a wound or stub left behind in the tree. Early Spring is a good time to prune most trees, before many functions involved with flowering and leaf production begin. Structural pruning, sucker/watersprout removal, crown cleaning and crown raising are a few of the most common types of pruning. Most trees in the built environment (most of our neighborhoods) can benefit from one or more of these practices.

With Spring coming on Sunday, and the warmer days on the way, it's time to get outside and breathe in the sweet Spring air! Go on, now, get out there!

Winter blooms, good news!

The Witch Hazels and Parrotia are in full bloom, which always gives me a twinge of optimism around this time of year... Even if the average RI snowfall total for March is five inches!

Keep your eyes peeled for crocus and daffodils, and don't forget the Silver Maple flowers, coming soon!!!