THE IMPORTANCE OF CARING FOR TREES

The large and majestic trees along our streets, on your property and in parks make up the urban forest. While we are aware of their beauty and benefits, we might not realize that many of our larger trees are suffering from environmental stress and neglect.

Unless we protect them, a majority of our heritage trees will disappear within twenty to thirty years. Air pollution, soil compaction and contamination, construction injury, exotic invasive insect pests and limited water, oxygen and nutrient availability has taken a toll. Mother Nature also causes stress with sudden ice storms, high winds, extreme low temperatures, a devastating spring snowstorm or summer drought. Many new large growing trees are planted in confined spaces with soil devoid of essential micronutrients.  And the life expectancy of newly planted street trees is only 25 years; it is unlikely they will ever reach the grandeur of the majestic trees today.

Trees are slow to respond to wounding and stress. It’s not unusual for a tree to die years after an adverse situation and unfortunately, an arborist is typically called when it is usually too late to save it. Root and branch dieback, decay and foliage scorching are all symptoms of stress and put the tree into a weakened condition. Weakened trees are more susceptible to insect problems and disease.

Image by sergies pics Flickr.com

There are several proactive and organic approaches to prolong the life of a tree and maintain its good health and vigor.

• Fix the soil with organic supplements. Raking our leaves removes vital organic matter; toxic chemicals and high nitrogen based fertilizers deplete the soil of important nutrients.  We need to replenish the soil with amendments or compost.  Healthy, nutrient rich soil determines how well your trees grow.
• A tree needs to be periodically inspected for structural defects, insect pests and disease.
• Trees should be pruned properly and focus on removing dead, dying, diseased and broken branches.
• Proper irrigation and mulching, especially in times of drought, are essential to maintain a tree’s good health.

Trees are not living statues – they need care and protection just like any other living thing.   Trees play a critical role in the health of the planet.  Please help preserve them.

Information compiled from Bostontreepreservation.com

 

THE DREADED DEER TICK

Image by life_through_a_viewfinder Jeremy Flickr.com

My husband and I took a beautiful walk through the woods last weekend.    The leaves were lovely shades of yellow and red and the temperature was perfect.  Then, I noticed several ticks on our pants and coats, and of course on our dog.  Nothing can ruin a walk faster than ticks!

Wood ticks are larger than deer ticks, and can be easily spotted and removed.  A mature deer tick however, measures about half the size of a wood tick and is harder to see.  They often carry Lyme disease and should be removed right away.  Infections peak during May, June and July.

Deer ticks are found in wooded areas and prefer to feed upon deer. The ticks wait on leaves and grass blades and attach themselves to any passing host they find. Humans often become accidental hosts of deer ticks.

What you can do to reduce your risk of getting Lyme disease?

• Avoid tall grasses
• Avoid deer paths
• Wear light colored clothing to spot them more easily
• Wear long sleeved shirts and pants tucked into your socks
• Use insect repellant
• Do tick checks with a magnifying glass
• Shower after being in an infected area
• Put your clothes in a hot dryer for 35 minutes
• Take garlic supplements to repel insects
• Treat pets to repel ticks and minimize their risk
• Keep grass mowed regularly and along boundary lines of your yard
• Get some guinea hens – they eat ticks, beetles and other garden insect pests

In addition you can treat your yard proactively in spring and early summer with organic tick control products such as pyrethrum, soap, Neem, garlic, and red pepper wax.  There are companies who offer organic tick control service. Visit bostontreepreservation.com for information.

For those readers who want to avoid chemical insect repellants for their pets, you can try a garlic powder and yeast supplement for pets.  Arbico Organics carries a good tasting one that is also good for the pet’s coat. The supplement probably works better for fleas than ticks. Never give a dog or cat raw onion or garlic however – they are toxic to animals.   One of my readers finds Diatomaceous earth quite effective as a tick repellant for her dogs.

Information compiled from Orkin.com, and “Lyme Disease and associated diseases: The Basics”, by Douglas W. Fearn

THE ECO-FRIENDLY APPROACH TO FALL LEAVES

There is nothing more beautiful than fall foliage, but what do you do with the fallen leaves?  Yard waste is the second-largest component of our trash stream (behind paper and corrugated boxes), according to the EPA, and makes up roughly 20 percent of most communities’ haul. Additionally, trucking the bulky bags to the dump requires a lot of fuel.

Americans can be obsessive about fallen leaves on the lawn.

 

Image by dasmant Flickr.com

 

We need to understand that dead leaves are actually Mother Nature’s food, rich in minerals, falling right where they are needed.  They can be composted into nutrient-rich soil for your spring garden. The leaves of one large shade tree can be worth as much as $50 of plant food and humus, according to CompostGuide.com. Leaves are a great soil conditioner and can be added to your perennial beds for nutrients and as protective mulch. With a good mulching mower you can leave a large number of leaves on the lawn to add nutrition, but don’t leave so much that they smother the lawn and cause snow mold. If you prefer to get rid of them, check and see if your community has garden waste recycling programs, or offer them to neighbors, garden clubs or local farmers for composting.

When gathering your leaves, rakes are more effective, cheaper and certainly “greener” than a leaf blower!  And – you burn calories.  If you must use a leaf blower, try a quiet, energy efficient electric one.

If you do bag your leaves, use biodegradable ones. Green Genius makes bags that are the same strength and price of regular trash bags, but biodegrade within 1 to 15 years.  You can purchase them at Whole Foods or Hannafords.

Fallen leaves are part of nature’s perfect system, so please don’t interfere and throw them away.

HOME REMEDIES FOR TREATING POISON IVY

Crisp, clear fall weather is perfect for outside activities, but that often means encounters with poison ivy.

 

Image by Cygnus921 Flickr.com

 

Poison ivy has grown faster, stronger, and more resilient as the level of carbon dioxide has increased in the past 50 years, according to new research. Even the itch-inducing oils seem to get more noxious.  It’s hard to get rid of too, rebounding quickly from pulling, slashing, deer browsing and probably even herbicide use.

There are several effective home remedies for poison ivy, especially if treated right away.  Try immediately pouring vodka on the exposed skin. The alcohol will wash away the urushiol oil, which causes the itching.   Straight rubbing alcohol works as well.  You can also apply warm oatmeal to the affected area or baking soda.  Mix 3 teaspoons of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of water to form a paste, then apply.  (This remedy also works for bee stings.)  For severe poison ivy, full immersion in a baking soda bath offers relief.  Vinegar helps get rid of the itching if liberally applied. Vinegar helps draw out the “poison” from poison ivy and spurs on healing.  White or apple cider vinegars seem to work best. The inside of a banana peel rubbed on poison ivy rashes also brings relief.  Dishwashing liquid is effective and accessible; the anti-grease agents make it a good remedy when applied at full strength, then washed off.

Mother Nature thinks of everything though.  You will often find Jewelweed, a plant known for its skin healing properties, growing right alongside poison ivy.  Herbalists use the leaves and juice as a treatment for poison ivy and other skin rashes. If used immediately, the jewelweed will neutralize  the urushiol oil.  But even poison ivy with all the discomfort it can cause has a place in the ecosystem – birds feast on its berries and rabbit and deer eat its leaves.

 

Jewel Weed Image by dubesg_vakje Flickr.com

 

CONSERVING WATER

Everyone loves a sunny, beautiful summer, but lack of rainfall is a problem.  Conserving water is always important, especially in drought-like conditions. Below are some everyday solutions to help you save water and money!

• Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when full.  Save up to 1,000 gallons/month.
• Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead.
• Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.
• Keep a pitcher of filtered drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk.
• Shorten your shower by a minute or two and save up to 150 gallons/month. Aim for a 4 minute shower.
• Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.
• Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn shades roots and holds moisture better than if it’s closely clipped.
• Use leftover water from boiling vegetables to water your plants.
• When running a bath, plug the tub before turning the water on and adjust the temperature when filling.
• Designate one glass for your drinking water each day or refill a water bottle. This cuts down on the number of glasses to wash.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving.
• Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.
• Wash your car on the lawn and water your lawn at the same time.
• Teach your children and grandchildren to conserve water.

Image by Coach O. Flickr.com

Feel good knowing you are doing the right thing for the earth.  For more water saving tips, go to www.wateruseitwisely.com.

GREENER GARDEN ACCESSORIES

image by Sighthound flickr.com

One of the most important garden accessories in a hot, dry summer is a garden hose. Traditional garden hoses however, use a lot of water and are manufactured with toxic materials. Fortunately manufacturers understand the importance of and the growing market for “green” household products and are now making eco-friendly hoses with patented water restrictors that control pressure and use at least 50% less water. The restrictors also help with puddling and soil erosion.  Earth friendly hoses are made from at least 50% recycled material, usually polyurethane or rubber or a combination, and are generally much lighter than the common rubber hose.  (It is important to choose a hose with UV protective coating to prevent cracking from direct sun exposure.) And on those hot days when you need a drink of water, you can safely drink from an eco-friendly garden hose.

Conserving water is always a concern and using a rain barrel to capture rainwater is a good way to do that.  The spouts can easily be attached to your garden hose and you can put two or more barrels together for more water!

When it’s time to replace your old garden hose, consider getting a “green” one.  They can be found on line at gardeners.com or greenhome.com.

Greener gardening is one more way to feel good about doing the right thing for the earth!

CONTROLLING MOSQUITOES NATURALLY

Along with the cookouts, volleyball games, hiking, camping and other glories of summer come mosquitoes and ticks.  But who wants to use pesticides or products containing DEET, which has been associated with a variety of health problems ranging from dizziness to seizures with children being particularly susceptible? There are several safer and effective alternatives.

A garlic spray in your yard provides excellent control.  Garlic has a natural sulfur which repels insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas and even black flies, yet does not harm humans, pets, bees, butterflies or plants. Since mosquitoes are soft-bodied insects the garlic juice can be very toxic to them in increased concentrations. Mosquitoes are also extremely odor sensitive and the garlic can repel them for up to a month or more, as long as they can still detect an odor. Farmers have been using garlic for generations. Organic based landscaping or pest control companies often offer a garlic spray or you can buy a product called Garlic Barrier and do it yourself.

For small areas like patios or decks, certain aromatic plants keep mosquitoes away.  Marigolds planted with pungent herbs like catnip (nearly 10 times more effective than DEET) and rosemary are effective and make attractive containers.  I planted the new “mosquito plant”, which grows fast and seems to work.  This scented geranium was specifically designed to keep pests away.

For personal repellents sprayed directly onto your skin, soybean-oil-based products have been shown to provide protection for a period of time similar to a product with a low concentration of DEET (4.75%).  Other ingredients usually include pure plant extracts like citronella, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lemongrass and peppermint, which are natural, effective and have a nice aroma.  Buzz Away and Bite Blocker are good brands that are potent and long lasting.

Two cultural practices, don’t keep standing or stagnate water around where mosquitoes can breed and consider putting up a bat house.  Mosquitoes are the primary food source for bats and some species eat up to 1000 of them an hour!

RAISED BED GARDENS

In this era of industrial grown food transported thousands of miles, and food borne illnesses that can often result, many people understand the health and environmental benefits of eating locally, or at least regionally.  Part of the new “locavore” movement is growing some of your own food, and one of the best and easiest ways to do so is to install a raised bed garden.

A raised bed garden is a garden built on top of your native soil typically sized around 5’ x 10’.  The basic idea of a raised bed is that instead of battling against poor soil conditions, you build above ground where you have absolute control over the soil texture and ingredients. You can plant more in a raised bed garden because you don’t need to leave room for paths.  You simply lean over to work in the garden. Because raised beds tend to have more plants in less space than a traditional vegetable garden, they have fewer weeds and require less maintenance.  Raised beds also drain better because they are elevated.

As with any garden, the quality of the soil is key – healthy living soil means healthy thriving plants, which means healthy fresh food.   So make sure you use local compost to enrich the soil, hopefully from your own compost pile. Along with the satisfaction of growing your own food, you’ll save money and will find that raised bed gardens add beauty to your landscape!

Have fun, get creative and grow a themed garden like a salad garden, a pizza garden, an Italian garden, whatever you can imagine. One idea is to grow fruits and vegetables from the Dirty Dozen list,the produce that contain 47 to 67 pesticides per serving and the foods you should always eat organic. These foods are believed to be most susceptible because they have soft skin that tends to absorb more pesticides.  Growing your own food is very rewarding!!!  Go to Gardener’s Supply Company for ideas!

Image by Peter Wild

 

 

THE GOOD SIDE OF DANDELIONS

 

Image by liangjinjian/jinjian liang

 

Dandelions have an awful reputation; we’re brainwashed into thinking the pretty yellow flowers are a nuisance weed we have to battle every year with a toxic herbicide.  In fact, they are an edible and very beneficial plant for soil and human health!

Dandelions store nutrients from air, water, and soil in their leaves, which are released into the soil when the leaves die and decompose. Their long roots aerate the soil and enable the plant to accumulate minerals, added to the soil when the plant dies.  Dandelions attract beneficial ladybugs and provide early spring pollen for their food.

Dandelions leaves rank in the top 4 green vegetables in overall nutritional value and are nature’s richest green vegetable source of beta-carotene and the third richest source of Vitamin A of all foods. The medicinal properties of dandelions are well known and commonly accepted throughout Europe. They act as a tonic and gentle diuretic to purify your blood, cleanse your system, and dissolve kidney stones.  They assist in weight reduction and cleanse your skin.  They improve your bowel function for both constipation and diarrhea and
 prevent or lower high blood pressure. The white sap from the stem and root is used as a topical remedy for warts and acne.

Dandelion flowers add color and diversity to the monoculture of the lawn.  Who doesn’t feel the nostalgia of blowing dandelion puffs as a child? With a change of heart, dandelions can be seen as a beneficial “wild herb” instead of a weed.

Consider what Emily Dickinson wrote about the dandelion – “Astonishes the grass”.

WILTED WEED SALAD

One person’s weeds are another person’s salad.  Many weeds, from violets to dandelions,can be eaten and are just as good as traditional greens and often considered delicacies.

Make sure you do not collect plants that may have been treated with a pesticide or weed-killing spray.

Ingredients and Supplies

Young dandelion greens

Wild mustard greens

Herbal Vinegar

Directions

1. Steam dandelion and mustard greens together.
2. Serve with herbal vinegar.

Violets, chickweed, mustard greens, purslane, and lamb’s quarters are also edible weeds you can add to your salad for spicy flavor, variety and nutrition to your salad.  Violets are rich in Vitamin A and C and purslane is high in omega-3 fatty acids.  Chickweed leaves are rich in minerals.  A WORD OF CAUTION: Be careful in identifying the weeds, and make sure they are pesticide free!

THE IMPORTANCE OF PLANTING TREES

Image by newwavegurly

The social, communal, and environmental benefits of trees are numerous.  They manufacture oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.  They provide shade in summer and windbreak in winter.  The beauty and serenity of trees have been shown to help hospital patients recover more quickly. Trees reduce crime in low-income urban areas and increase property values.   Trees help us save energy and improve air quality, conserve water and provide homes to wildlife.   Large and majestic trees are an important part of the community.

According to American Forests, the national urban tree deficit now stands at more than 634 million trees.  Unprecedented environmental stresses are making it more difficult for trees to grow and flourish in today’s world.  Because trees offset our carbon footprint, or the amount of energy a person consumes in their day-to-day activities, it is more important than ever to plant trees.  The average person produces 26 tons of CO2 per year.  6 twenty-five year old pine trees absorb 1 ton of CO2.  36 twenty-five year old maple trees absorb 1 ton of CO2.  Planting trees is a way for people to give back to the environment for future generations and offset the damage done by their carbon footprint.  Arbor Day is April 30 and the perfect time to plant a tree.  If you prefer, there are organizations like americanforests.org or erasecarbonfootprint.com where with a small donation they will plant a tree in your name.

Image by Andy Peters