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Trees

Conifers for Northeast Landscapes: The Ultimate Guide to Evergreen Trees

by Gregory October 7, 2020

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Conifers for Northeast Landscapes: A Guide to Evergreen Trees

Introduction

Conifers are a mainstay of Northeast landscapes, where the winters can be long and harsh. These needle-leaved trees stay green all year round, providing a cheerful contrast to the snow-covered ground. But which Northeast conifers are right for you? Let’s explore some of the most common and versatile options.

Pine Trees: A Classic Choice

Pine trees are a type of conifer that are well-suited to the Northeast climate. They are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Some popular pine trees for the Northeast include:

Eastern White Pine: This stately tree can reach heights of 80 feet and has long, blue-green needles. It is hardy in zones 3-7 and thrives in cold weather.
Mugo Pine: Native to Europe, this pine is known for its compact size and fragrant foliage. It typically grows to a height of 20 feet and is available in cultivars as small as 1.5 feet. It is hardy in zones 2-7.
Red Pine: Also known as Japanese Red Pine, this tree has long, dark green needles and distinctive reddish-brown bark. It is hardy in zones 3b-7a.

Other Evergreen Conifers

In addition to pine trees, there are many other types of evergreen conifers that are well-suited to Northeast landscapes. Here are a few popular choices:

Canadian Hemlock: This graceful tree is a distant cousin of the pine and is native to Eastern North America. It can reach a height of 70 feet and has soft, feathery needles. It is hardy in zones 3-8, but may need some winter protection in very cold climates.
Eastern Red Cedar: Also known as Eastern Juniper, this tree is native to eastern Canada and the US. It has a conical or columnar shape and is hardy in zones 2-9.
Larch: This unique conifer is deciduous, meaning it loses its needles every fall. However, the needles always come back in the spring, along with tiny pink cones. It is hardy in zones 2-6.

Choosing the Right Conifer

When choosing a conifer for your Northeast landscape, there are a few things to consider:

Hardiness: Make sure the tree is hardy in your USDA plant hardiness zone.
Size: Consider the mature size of the tree and choose one that will fit well in your space.
Shape: Conifers come in a variety of shapes, from pyramidal to columnar to rounded. Choose a shape that complements your landscape design.
Foliage: Pay attention to the color, texture, and length of the needles. Some conifers have soft, feathery needles, while others have stiff, sharp needles.
Special features: Some conifers have unique features, such as fragrant foliage, colorful bark, or unusual cones. Consider these features when making your selection.

Planting and Care

Once you have chosen the right conifer for your landscape, it is important to plant it properly and provide it with the care it needs to thrive. Here are a few tips:

Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and spread a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering: Water your conifer regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Once established, most conifers are drought-tolerant and do not need frequent watering.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your conifer once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Most conifers do not require regular pruning. However, you can prune them to control their size or shape, or to remove any dead or diseased branches.

With proper care and maintenance, conifers can provide years of beauty and enjoyment in your Northeast landscape.

Trees

Norfolk Pine Troubleshooting: Why is My Norfolk Pine Turning Brown or Yellow? | Causes and Solutions

by Gregory September 10, 2020

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Norfolk Pine Troubleshooting: Why is My Norfolk Pine Turning Brown or Yellow?

Norfolk pines are popular houseplants and outdoor trees, but they can sometimes develop problems that cause their foliage to turn brown or yellow. Here are some of the most common causes and how to fix them:

Temperature

Norfolk pines are native to the tropical Norfolk Island, so they prefer warm temperatures. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but they will start to suffer if the temperature drops below 40°F (4°C). If your Norfolk pine is exposed to cold temperatures, its leaves may turn yellow or brown and drop off.

Solution: Move your Norfolk pine to a warmer location, such as indoors or in a greenhouse. If you live in a cold climate, you can also grow your Norfolk pine in a container so that you can bring it indoors during the winter months.

Sunlight

Norfolk pines need bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. If your Norfolk pine is getting too much sunlight, its leaves may turn yellow or brown and become crispy.

Solution: Move your Norfolk pine to a location where it will receive bright, indirect light. You can also filter the sunlight with a sheer curtain or shade.

Water

Norfolk pines need regular watering, but they don’t like to be overwatered. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown and drop off.

Solution: Water your Norfolk pine when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, and never let your Norfolk pine sit in water.

Pests

Norfolk pines can be susceptible to a variety of pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown.

Solution: Inspect your Norfolk pine regularly for pests. If you find any pests, treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases

Norfolk pines can also be susceptible to a variety of diseases, including anthracnose and needle blight. These diseases can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown and drop off.

Solution: If you think your Norfolk pine has a disease, consult with a plant pathologist or arborist. They can help you identify the disease and recommend the best course of treatment.

Other Causes

In addition to the above causes, there are a few other things that can cause Norfolk pine leaves to turn yellow or brown. These include:

Nutrient deficiency: Norfolk pines need a balanced fertilizer to stay healthy. If your Norfolk pine is not getting enough nutrients, its leaves may turn yellow or brown.
Transplant shock: Norfolk pines can experience transplant shock when they are moved to a new location. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown and drop off.
Root damage: Root damage can also cause Norfolk pine leaves to turn yellow or brown. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as overwatering, underwatering, or root rot.

If you are not sure what is causing your Norfolk pine leaves to turn yellow or brown, it is best to consult with a plant care professional. They can help you diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Tips for Keeping Your Norfolk Pine Healthy

Here are a few tips for keeping your Norfolk pine healthy and preventing its leaves from turning yellow or brown:

Water your Norfolk pine regularly, but avoid overwatering.
Fertilize your Norfolk pine monthly during the growing season.
Provide your Norfolk pine with bright, indirect light.
Protect your Norfolk pine from cold temperatures.
Inspect your Norfolk pine regularly for pests and diseases.

By following these tips, you can help your Norfolk pine stay healthy and looking its best.

Trees

The Himalayan Birch Tree: A Comprehensive Guide for Planting, Care, and Benefits

by Donna July 15, 2020

written by Donna 4 minutes read

The Himalayan Birch Tree: A Guide for Beginners

The Himalayan birch tree is a beautiful and unique tree that is native to the Himalayan mountains. It is a popular choice for ornamental plantings due to its graceful form, outstanding bark, and dramatic fall color.

Description

The Himalayan birch tree is a deciduous tree that can grow to be 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a graceful, open, pyramidal form with branches that droop slightly at the tips. The bark is one of the most distinctive features of the Himalayan birch tree. It is white and papery, and it peels back in thin layers to reveal the orange-brown underbark.

The leaves of the Himalayan birch tree are bright green and tapered. They turn a golden yellow in the fall. The tree also produces catkins in the spring. Catkins are long, slender spikes of flowers. The male catkins are yellow, and the female catkins are green.

Planting and Care

The Himalayan birch tree is best planted in moist, acidic, sandy soil. It prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The tree is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 7.

When planting a Himalayan birch tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

The Himalayan birch tree is relatively low-maintenance. It does not require regular pruning, but you may want to remove any dead or diseased branches. The tree is also susceptible to a few pests and diseases, such as the bronze birch borer and aphids.

Benefits of Planting a Himalayan Birch Tree

There are many benefits to planting a Himalayan birch tree in your yard. These trees are:

Beautiful: Himalayan birch trees are known for their graceful form, outstanding bark, and dramatic fall color. They are a beautiful addition to any landscape.
Low-maintenance: Himalayan birch trees are relatively low-maintenance. They do not require regular pruning or fertilizing.
Wildlife-friendly: Himalayan birch trees provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits.
Air-purifying: Himalayan birch trees help to purify the air by removing pollutants.

FAQs

Q: How do I identify a Himalayan birch tree? A: Himalayan birch trees can be identified by their white, papery bark, their graceful, open, pyramidal form, and their bright green leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall.

Q: How do I grow a Himalayan birch tree in a warm climate? A: Himalayan birch trees prefer cool northern climates, but they can be grown in warm climates with a little extra care. Plant the tree in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Water the tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Q: How do I care for a Himalayan birch tree in the winter? A: Himalayan birch trees are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 7. In colder climates, the tree may need to be protected from the cold with a layer of mulch around the base.

Q: How do I prune a Himalayan birch tree? A: Himalayan birch trees do not require regular pruning. However, you may want to remove any dead or diseased branches. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before the new growth begins.

Q: How do I protect a Himalayan birch tree from pests and diseases? A: Himalayan birch trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, such as the bronze birch borer and aphids. To protect the tree, keep it healthy by watering it regularly and fertilizing it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the tree to control pests.

Trees

Black Locust: Invasive Beauty or Undesirable Threat? Understanding the Controversial Tree

by Donna July 5, 2020

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Black Locust: Invasive Beauty or Undesirable Threat?

Introduction

Have you ever encountered a tree with stunning white flowers and attractive foliage? That’s the black locust, a tree that can both captivate and concern. Read on to discover the intriguing story of this controversial tree.

Black Locust: An Ornamental Delight

The black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a tree that’s hard to resist. Its abundant, fragrant flowers bloom in gorgeous white racemes, creating a captivating contrast against its lush green foliage. With its massive trunk, broad limbs, and graceful appearance, it’s no wonder this tree is a popular choice for ornamental purposes.

Native Origins and Invasive Spread

Black locust is a native species of the Southeastern United States, ranging from Pennsylvania to Georgia and west to Appalachia. However, its beauty has led to its cultivation across the East Coast as a lumber tree and for ornamental purposes. Unfortunately, this widespread planting has resulted in its escape from cultivation and its establishment as an invasive species in many areas, including Cape Cod.

Invasive Nature and Ecological Impact

Black locust’s invasiveness stems from its ability to propagate both by seed and by suckers. Its roots also alter soil chemistry by fixing nitrogen, making the soil more hospitable to other invasive species. This poses a significant threat to native vegetation outside of its historic range.

In new areas, black locust’s dense growth and shade can reduce competition from sun-loving plants. It can create dense clusters that shade out ground vegetation, disrupting the natural ecosystem.

Control and Management

Due to its invasive nature, black locust is illegal to sell or buy in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. However, it is also classified as invasive in states where it is native, such as Indiana, where it has invaded prairie and savanna habitats.

Controlling the spread of black locust requires a combination of methods, including:

Removing existing trees and preventing new growth
Using herbicides to target specific trees
Promoting the growth of native species to outcompete black locust

Benefits and Drawbacks

Despite its invasive potential, black locust also offers some benefits:

Durable wood: Black locust wood is strong, rot-resistant, and attractive, making it valuable for lumber and other wood products.
Nitrogen-fixing: Black locust’s ability to fix nitrogen can improve soil fertility, benefiting other plants.
Pollinator attraction: The fragrant flowers of black locust attract bees and other pollinating insects, supporting wildlife populations.

However, the drawbacks of black locust’s invasiveness often outweigh its benefits. Its uncontrolled spread can disrupt ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and diminish the value of natural areas.

Conclusion

The black locust is a tree with both beauty and drawbacks. While its ornamental qualities and ecological benefits can be appealing, its invasive nature poses a significant threat to native ecosystems. Understanding the complex nature of this tree is crucial for making informed decisions about its cultivation and management.

Trees

Mountain Cedar: The Tree with Many Names and Common Misconceptions

by Donna April 3, 2020

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Mountain Cedar: The Tree with Many Names

Mountain cedar is a tree with a confusing name. It’s not actually a cedar tree, and it’s not native to mountains. So, what is it?

What is Mountain Cedar?

Mountain cedar is actually a type of juniper tree, scientifically known as Juniperus ashei. It has many other common names, including ashe juniper, rock cedar, Mexican juniper, and Texas cedar.

Mountain cedar is an evergreen tree, meaning it keeps its leaves all year round. It’s not very tall, usually growing to be around 25 feet tall. It’s native to central Texas, but it can also be found in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, and northern Mexico.

Mountain Cedar Information

Mountain cedar trees have rounded crowns and dark bark that peels off in strips. The leaves are small and scale-like, and they stay green all year round.

Mountain cedar trees are either male or female. Male trees produce pollen cones, while female trees produce fruit cones that look like berries. The berries provide food for wildlife.

Mountain Cedar Allergies

Mountain cedar pollen is known to cause allergies in some people, often referred to as “cedar fever.” Symptoms of cedar fever can include red eyes, runny nose, itchy ears, sneezing, and fatigue.

Cedar fever can be a real nuisance, especially during the winter months when the pollen count is high. If you suffer from cedar fever, you may want to talk to your doctor about allergy shots. Allergy shots can help to reduce the severity of your symptoms.

Growing Mountain Cedar Trees

Mountain cedar trees are relatively easy to grow, but they do have some specific requirements. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They are also drought-tolerant, making them a good choice for areas with limited water.

Mountain cedar trees can be grown from seed or cuttings. If you’re growing them from seed, you’ll need to scarify the seeds before planting them. This will help them to germinate more easily.

Mountain cedar trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They are evergreen, drought-tolerant, and relatively easy to grow. However, if you suffer from cedar fever, you may want to consider planting a different type of tree.

Additional Information

Other uses of mountain cedar: Mountain cedar wood is used to make furniture, fence posts, and other products. The berries are also used to make jelly and other food products.
Mountain cedar and wildlife: Mountain cedar trees provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Mountain cedar and the environment: Mountain cedar trees help to reduce erosion and improve water quality. They also provide shade and oxygen.

Trees

Autumn Blaze Maple Tree: Fast-Growing Ornamental with Stunning Fall Color

by Donna March 19, 2020

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Autumn Blaze Maple Tree: A Fast-Growing Ornamental with Vibrant Fall Color

Introduction

Are you looking for a fast-growing tree that will add beauty and interest to your backyard? The Autumn Blaze maple tree is an excellent choice. These hybrid trees combine the best features of their parents, the red maple and the silver maple, to create a stunning ornamental that is both easy to grow and care for.

Fast Growth and Hardiness

Autumn Blaze maple trees are known for their rapid growth rate, reaching heights of up to 50 feet and widths of up to 40 feet. They are also hardy trees, tolerating a wide range of climates and soil conditions. This makes them a great option for gardeners in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 8.

Exceptional Fall Color

One of the most striking features of Autumn Blaze maple trees is their vibrant fall color. In autumn, their deeply lobed leaves turn a brilliant shade of red and orange, creating a breathtaking display that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Benefits of Autumn Blaze Maple Trees

In addition to their fast growth and beautiful fall color, Autumn Blaze maple trees offer several other benefits:

Drought tolerance: Autumn Blaze maple trees are tolerant of drought conditions, making them a good choice for areas with limited rainfall.
Disease resistance: These trees are resistant to most common insect pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Versatile growth habit: Autumn Blaze maple trees can be grown in a variety of settings, including as shade trees, street trees, or specimen trees.

How to Grow Autumn Blaze Maple Trees

Growing Autumn Blaze maple trees is relatively easy. Here are a few tips:

Planting: Plant Autumn Blaze maple trees in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Dig a hole that is three to five times as wide as the root ball but the same depth. Position the root ball so that the top is even with the soil line. Water deeply after planting.
Watering: Water Autumn Blaze maple trees regularly during the first growing season. Once established, they are drought tolerant and will only need occasional watering during periods of extended drought.
Fertilizing: Fertilize Autumn Blaze maple trees annually in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune Autumn Blaze maple trees as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree.

Autumn Blaze Maple Tree Care

Caring for Autumn Blaze maple trees is minimal. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Winter protection: In areas with cold winters, it is important to provide Autumn Blaze maple trees with winter protection. Mulch around the base of the tree and wrap the trunk with burlap or tree wrap.
Leaf cleanup: Autumn Blaze maple trees produce a large number of leaves in the fall. Be prepared to rake or blow away the leaves regularly.
Pest and disease control: Autumn Blaze maple trees are relatively pest- and disease-resistant, but they can still be affected by some common problems. Watch for signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly.

Conclusion

The Autumn Blaze maple tree is a beautiful and easy-to-grow ornamental tree that is perfect for a variety of landscapes. With its fast growth rate, vibrant fall color, and low maintenance requirements, the Autumn Blaze maple tree is a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

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