The White House is Home to a Long Line of Serious Gardeners and Tree Lovers

In an article written by Melanie Choukas-Bradley, she describes the series of Presidents and First Ladies who have contributed to the beauty and essence of the national park known as President’s Park. This park, which is located on the grounds of the White House, has been considered a national park since 1933. The current collection of trees at the White House is comprised of 37 official commemorative tree plantings by presidents and first ladies. The collection of commemorative trees is mixed in with hundreds of other trees within the 18 fenced acres of the White House grounds. For many years it has been a tradition for presidents and their first ladies to add to President’s Park. Many of these additions were made to commemorate people or events, and others were planted out of shear appreciation for trees and gardens.

Thomas Jefferson was considered a passionate and highly accomplished horticulturist. According to White House Historical Association author Dr. William Seale, “The glory of the White House grounds would one day be its trees, and although none of Jefferson’s is known to survive, he started the tradition.” A quote from Jefferson states, “I wish I was a despot that I might save the noble, the beautiful trees that are daily falling sacrifices to the cupidity of their owners, or the necessity of the poor…The unnecessary felling of a tree, perhaps the growth of centuries, seems to me a crime little short of murder; it pains me to an unspeakable degree.”

In 1913 the first wife of Woodrow Wilson chose the site for America’s most historic garden when she planted roses outside of her husband’s West Wing office. However, John F. Kennedy was the one who inaugurated the modern-day Rose Garden and took a great interest in its growth. According to Wolf Von Eckardt, Washington Post architecture critic at the time, “He would always walk through it on his way to his office and back for lunch or dinner. …As his garden grew, so did his knowledge of its plants and wonders…It was the only thing he ever bragged about.” In 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis, President Kennedy described the Rose Garden as the “brightest spot in the somber surroundings of the last few days.” During Johnson’s administration, First Lady Bird Johnson chose to honor Jacqueline Kennedy by dedicating to her the garden just opposite the Rose Garden.

When Laura Bush was asked which of the White House trees was her favorite she replied, “The most magnificent is the Andrew Jackson magnolia.” This tree, which is actually two trees growing very closely together, is the oldest commemorative presidential tree at the White House. Andrew Jackson is said to have brought these trees from his home near Nashville and planted them at the White House as a way to remember his late wife Rachel.

Here is a list of the 41 trees and gardens planted by presidents and first ladies:


1. Purple Beech - George Bush (1991)
2. White Dogwood - Bill and Hillary Clinton (1996)
3. White Dogwood - Bill and Hillary Clinton (1995)
4. Patmore Ash - George Bush (1989)
5. Northern Red Oak - Dwight D. Eisenhower (1959)
6. Eastern Redbud - George Bush (1990)
7. Little-Leafed Linden - George Bush & Queen Elizabeth II (1991)
8. Willow Oak - Ronald Reagan (1988)
9. Silver Linden - George W. and Laura Bush (2008)
10. Jacqueline Kennedy Garden 1965
11. Southern Magnolia (2) - Andrew Jackson (1830)
12. Saucer Magnolia (4) - John F. Kennedy (1962)
13. Rose Garden (1913)
14. Willow Oak - Lyndon B. Johnson (1964)
15. Little-Leafed Linden - Bill Clinton (1993)
16. Pin Oak - Dwight D. Eisenhower (1958)
17. Little-Leafed Linden - George W. and Laura Bush (2003)
18. White Oak - Herbert Hoover (1931)
19. Cedar of Lebanon - Jimmy Carter (1978)
20. Cutleaf Silver Maple - George W. and Laura Bush (2001)
21. White Dogwood (3) - Hillary Rodham Clinton (1994)
22. Children’s Garden (1969)
23. American Elm - Bill and Hillary Clinton (1993)
24. Japanese Maple - Frances Folsom Cleveland (1893)
25. White House Kitchen Garden (2009)
26. Japanese Maple - Rosalyn Carter (1978)
27. Willow Oak - Bill and Hillary Clinton (1993)
28.White Oak - Herbert Hoover (1931)
29. American Elm - John Q. Adams (1826, replaced B.Bush1991)
30. Southern Magnolia - Franklin D. Roosevelt (1942)
31. Southern Magnolia - Warren G. Harding (1922 replaced 1947)
32. White Oak - Franklin D. Roosevelt (1935)
33. Little-Leafed Linden - Barack Obama (2009)
34. Red Maple - Jimmy Carter (1977)
35. White Saucer Magnolia - Nancy Reagan (1982)
36. English and American Boxwood* - Harry S. Truman (1952)
37. Jefferson (American) Elm - George W. and Laura Bush (2006)
38. American Elm - Betty Ford (1975)
39. Fern Leaf Beech - Lady Bird Johnson (1968)
40. Fern Leaf Beech - Patricia Nixon (1972, replaced 2005)
41. Sugar Maple - Ronald Reagan (1984)

Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids: Trees and Spring

Fresh spring air, blooming flowers, busy wildlife, and bright soft grass make a wonderful playground for children - but convincing kids to get a nice healthy dose of the outdoors each day is a whole different story! Despite the enticing indoor entertainment options available to today’s youth, there remain plenty of great outdoor ideas that can only be enjoyed once a year: during the beautiful season in which life awakens!

1. Flowerblossom Flipbook

Flipbooks are collections of pictures that, when flipped through rapidly, produce the illusion of an animated picture. There are two ways to tie this fun little project in with springtime environmental education. One involves technology: youngsters may be supervised with a camera, taking one picture of the same emerging tree bud or flower blossom each day. With a little editing and cropping by mom or dad, the flipbook will look fantastic.

An alternative (since cameras are not toys!) can be to show children how to sketch out the bud or blossom each day to the same effect. Not only will a curious young mind learn about a crucial function of plant life, but the neat little keepsake will delight family members and friends.

2. Spring Scavenger Hunt

Do you know anything about the native plants and wildlife in your backyard? Send energy-packed kids outside with an illustrated list of natural objects to find. This may include objects that can be gathered or even immovable items that can be noted by location. Some good ideas for a scavenger list may be: species-specific seed pods, leafs of different sizes, beneficial insect hideouts, and any other safe objects that are native to the ecosystem of your yard. This is the perfect chance to open a dialogue about how all organic matter, living or dead, plays a specific role in the life cycle of the environment.

3. Plant a Tree

Parents who have never successfully planted a tree before may find this experience will be educational for all involved. Not only is the choice of species extremely important, but so are the location and surrounding objects. The family’s need for shade or wind block may also play a role here. While children may not be able to be involved in the grunt work, there are still many choices and small tasks associated with planting a tree that any kid would be proud to be a part of.

Choosing the Right Maple Tree Species

A red maple in spring

Maple trees are a wildly popular and prolific species, treasured by sightseers and nature enthusiasts everywhere. Those who grew up in the Midwest can remember the fun seed pods that turn into “helicopters” when thrown into the air - just one of the few free pleasures left to youth. But not every maple is created equal; the decision of which maple species to plant at home takes time and research to make.

Unique Maple Benefits

Depending on the desired location and traits, some maples serve several purposes quite well. Striped maple or moosewood stands up to shade well, growing only up to about 33 tall – making this the perfect species of tree to grow under power lines in certain cases with careful tree maintenance. Red maples make a great ornamental tree, especially as the blazing fall colors begin to develop. These native beauties can grow up to 75 feet tall and provide ample shade.

Avoid Undesirable Traits

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot the weakness of a tree for all the benefits and beauty the same species may contain. For example, the striped maple species mentioned above has plenty of distinguishing features: one of which is soft bark that can buckle under ice or strain. While this may be fine in temperate climates, it certainly will not do well in others. The Norway maple is one species that should be avoided in many areas despite the good traits: these maples are one of many invasive species that are difficult to contain once planted!

How can a landowner ensure they are planting a beneficial species of maple tree, instead of one that could be potentially harmful? Consulting with a certified arborist or tree service professional can take some of the guesswork out of tree planting – and the effort may save precious time and money in the future!

How to Store Trees Prior To Planting

The sunlight is beginning to stick around longer each day, making gardeners and homeowners equally giddy about their new arrivals. Now is the time to begin ordering for the spring planting season – but what are green-thumbs to do if the new trees show up at an inconvenient time?

Root Ball

Although a hardy method of shipping and transporting trees, root balled stock still needs to be treated with care. The extra soil tends to make these saplings much heavier and more prone to being dropped or injured. Do not use plastic to cover the root balls, but instead use canvas, peat moss, etc. The ball should be kept moist and unfrozen.

Containerized Trees

Some trees, whether bare root or root ball, are packaged in a way that will stand up for several weeks in a cool area. Be sure to find out from the nursery or shipping company what the exact instructions for care may be. If left to get too warm, trees may begin to break dormancy and must be removed from packaging and either potted or transplanted immediately.

Bare Root

Storing bare root trees has always proved to be much more difficult than handling root balls or potted varieties. Dormant trees have a couple of reliable options. If it will be a few weeks before tree planting, make sure to soak the roots for an hour or so in water – let them get a nice, long drink. A cool garage or shady corner outdoors will work for storage, but roots should be misted occasionally to keep moist. If a tree arrives that has already broken dormancy an executive decision will be required: it must be heeled in outdoors or potted. The pot will need to be covered with mulch, leaves, or snow to be kept insulated in the chilly late winter and early spring.

Flowering Spring Trees for Saint Louis

Besides the chirping of birds and joyous shouts of children, how do we know it is spring in Missouri? The beautiful flowering trees, of course! The “show-me” state has an abundance of gorgeous and aromatic flowers in the springtime, but the blooming native trees put on the most spectacular show of them all. If you’re putting together your spring planting list, consider the following three native tree varieties to add a bit of floral elegance to your property!

Flowering Dogwood

Cornus florida is a simple species of Dogwood with a surprising twist. This tree generally grows up to 33 feet tall, providing ample shade and windblock for residential areas. The flowers are what gives this species it’s name and popularity: groups of inconspicuous yellow-green buds will grace the branches each spring, only to be replaced by stunningly vibrant red fruits in the fall. The flowering dogwood is a classic Missouri native that will put on a show all year round.

Pawpaw

Hailing from the same family as the custard-apple, sweetsop, and ylang-ylang, the Pawpaw (Asimina) provides the largest edible fruit indigenous to the continent. The name is often considered to be a derivative of “papaya”, because of the visual similarity of the fruits. The leaves begin to come around in April, bringing with them large, beautiful red-purple flowers. Although this variety isn’t very pleasant smelling, planting this native tree will add a touch of the tropics to your Missouri home.

Hawthorn

Hawthorns have a natural presence in almost every county of Missouri, making this tree the perfect hardy candidate for homeowners who want to avoid the bulk of routine tree maintenance. The Hawthorn’s flowers are so beautiful that they have been adopted as the Missouri state flower. The fruits are certain to attract a variety of cheerful birds.

Recycling Valentines Day Waste

For such a romantic holiday, Valentine’s Day sure does leave a pretty big mess in its wake! After the gift giving and sweet snuggles, you may find yourself standing knee-high in unwanted flowers, cards, candy wrappers, wrapping paper, and a variety of other waste products. Many of these items are made of more than one material, so how do you dispose of this junk in a green and eco-friendly way?

Cards

While some people manage to hold on to every card they receive, others of us have the guilty habit of keeping the special messages while throwing out the rest. Instead of trashing these sentimental items, consider re-purposing them for scrapbooking. If a card particularly catches your eye, put it in a frame to keep on a desk or table. You will always remember the card and its contents this way!

Candy Wrappers

When I decide to eat candy, I rarely enjoy just one piece. That leaves a whole lot of trash behind – much of which cannot be traditionally recycled. Cellophane wrappers are the most difficult to get rid of. This thin plastic can be washed and used for a variety of different purposes: if you’re crafty you can create a collage with a piece of glass and some heat-resistant gloss coating – it will look a lot like stained glass and is the perfect project for the kids. Aluminum wrappers may be recycled with the rest of your tin cans, and paper wrappers can go right in the compost.

Flowers

Old flowers can be put to much better use than simply being thrown in the trash can. Flowers are the perfect candidate for the compost bin. That's right, your dead flowers can contribute to the health of your garden and freshly planted spring trees. If you don’t want to get rid of them, there are other options available. Hang the flowers upside down and they should try after a few weeks, at which point you can remove the petals and make a charming homemade potpourri.

Green Valentines Day Gifts

This Valentine’s Day you can feel great going green by giving ethical and eco-friendly gifts to your friends and loved ones. The traditional presents may be romantic, but bouquets and diamonds simply aren’t practical for many couples no matter how hard the commercials try to persuade you otherwise. Whether you’re environmentally aware or simply on a budget, green gifts always make a great impression with less consumption and waste. The following green gifts for him and her may require a little extra effort, but that’s what love is all about!

For Him

Finding the perfect girlie Valentine’s Day gift is easy, but the gentlemen are a little more difficult to shop for! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Some say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and as silly as stereotyping is, there is no denying handmade sweet treats are always appreciated by anyone with taste buds. If you’re not a fan of the culinary arts, there are all kinds of alternatives for the techie type. Digital downloads are quick, simple, cheaper, and best of all: definitely green. Games, movies, and music can all be purchased online – eliminating production and packaging waste. The possibilities for completely digital gifts are endless.

For Her

Roses have always been a popular gift, but they’re just a temporary sentiment that will eventually get thrown out. If you want to make a more permanent impression this Valentine’s Day, consider going with potted roses instead. Think big and contact a local professional about a native fruit tree that you could plant together for a gift that keeps on giving. Valentine’s Day is the second most popular day for the exchange of greeting cards, but going green doesn’t mean dropping this traditional favorite! Instead of purchasing a card from the store – make one at home with your own message and content. Maybe even include a few romantic coupons for a sensual massage or thoughtful favor. Have fun and be creative!

Eco-Friendly Valentines Day Activities

Valentine’s Day is known to be one of the most wasteful days of the year – think about all of the flowers, candy, and cards that are bought and shipped, used and thrown away. That doesn’t sound very romantic, does it? This Valentine’s day, consider keeping it simple and showing your love in a way that does not break the bank or harm our environment.

Plant a Tree

Remember our post about the danger of carving initials into tree stumps? Well, there is an alternative that is just as sweet – and will last much longer. Planting a tree is a symbolic gesture that allows a couple to see how their love has grown with each passing year. Together you can nurture the young sapling, and later enjoy romantic moments in the shade. Plant at home or donate a native tree to your local park.

Scrapbooking
Everybody wants to send a thoughtful card to their Valentine, but have you recently counted how many you already have laying around from years past? Your lover is probably swamped in them as well! Get together with your Valentine and gather up old love notes, pictures, cards, newspaper articles, and pretty scraps of paper and up-cycle your very own scrapbook! It will give a purpose to those sentimental items that never get any use, and you’ll end up with a keepsake that will never lose its romance.

Eat In

Going out to eat for Valentine’s Day is a common practice – this year, be unique! Head to the local farmer’s market and pick out delicious, wholesome ingredients that will really “WOW” your special someone! Burn organic candles and enjoy a romantic meal away from the hustle and bustle of commercial restaurants. You’ll save money and save the planet, all while impressing your Valentine with your amazing culinary skills.

Get Romantic

Sometimes couples work so hard to make Valentine’s Day “work” that they forget to spend any quality quiet time together. Don’t let yourself get swept up with the pressure of impressing your loved one, and instead utilize this special day to get back to the basics. Sometimes, keeping it green can really spice things up: save water with a bubble bath for two, enjoy a massage with fragrant organic oils, or get sensual with body painting. The possibilities are truly endless!

How to Buy a Healthy Sapling

We are getting closer to planting season every single day. Soon, the shopping for bulbs, seeds plants and sapling will be in full swing – it is so exciting! Do you want to make sure that your new investments will grow up to be happy and hardy? A healthy tree starts as a healthy sapling, so be discriminating when picking out the perfect specimen for planting! Make sure that you are getting the most viable option available by covering the bases of RIF: roots, injury, and form.

Roots

When buying trees, the roots usually come in one of three forms: bare root, root ball, and container grown. Bare roots should not be torn or crushed, with the ends being clean cut. Damaged roots can be repaired with a clean cut directly before planting and watering.

Roots balls need to be around twelve inches times the diameter of the trunk, measured from 6 inches above the trunk flare (where the trunk meets the roots). Trunk flare should be visible – if not, gently expose the buried portion before planting.

Container grown roots should not twist or circle, but should be growing straight down with plenty of space. Circling roots can eventually girdle and kill other roots, leading to noticeable growth issues as the years pass.Tree removal services are a lifesaver, but can be costly, so it is best to save the trouble and inspect roots before a major purchase!

Injury

Inspect trees for insect damage and trunk wounds before making a purchase. The most common cause of sapling injury is incorrect pruning - ensure that no cracks, cankers, or decay surround pruning cuts. Trees with “stubs” left over are typically more prone to disease and defection. Saplings that are wrapped in burlap should be uncovered and inspected completely.

Form

Strong form as a sapling often indicates that the tree will be easy to maintain throughout its life. Strong architecture starts with branches that are firmly attached and evenly spaced along the length of the trunk. Branches that are too closely spaced, whether vertically or horizontally, may squeeze together during growth increasing the chances of cracks and splitting.

If your favorite sapling has a few minor defects here and there, corrective pruning may remedy the problems if caught early. The best time to do this is one full year after planting – patience is necessary. Starting with a hardy sapling saves future headaches, tree maintenance, and repair. Our trees are not only an investment for ourselves, but also an investment for generations to come. Choose a healthy sapling to represent the Earth’s healthy future.

Before the Best Season to Plant Trees Approaches - Considerations

The perfect time to begin planning for a new tree is fast approaching. Homeowners who may have attempted and failed to raise a healthy tree from sapling to maturity have learned the hard way; while it may seem as simple as digging a hole and inserting a sapling, there are actually just as many wrong ways to plant a tree as there are right. Tree service professionals see the same thing, year after year - simple mistakes lead to dead saplings. To avoid the need for a removal expert any time in the near future, make sure to take into account the following factors before making any major decisions:

The Basics

First things first: check with city regulations. There are often specifications about how far trees must be planted from power lines, roads, homes, property lines, gas lines, etc. Really, the list can go on forever. It is important to figure these things out even before picking a species of tree – there should be resources on your state. The last thing a homeowner wants is a fine for damages to city property. After the legal restrictions are out of the way, consider the available planting space left in your yard. Now you are ready to get down to the more enjoyable aspects of this beautiful home improvement.

Species

We always recommend native trees for their hardiness and bountiful environmental benefits. Although this does not necessarily narrow your selection, your options may be somewhat limited by certain attributes of each type of tree. Size, growth rate, required maintenance, and of course, aesthetics often play a major role when a homeowner is shopping for a tree. None of these should be ignored, because they can take up a lot of your time and affect property value a great deal.

Placement

This is where the basics and the species come together in the final decision. Consider current and future arrangements of vegetation near the planting area. Will the tree canopy obscure light once the tree is mature? Will the final root length interfere with a home’s foundation or any other permanent fixtures? Does the root structure form deep enough as to not interfere with other nearby trees or plants? These are all questions that a tree service professional would have no trouble answering, but the homebrew solution is to research, research, research!

Have fun, and happy planning!

Easy Tree Stump Removal

Okay, so, the title of this article is kind of a joke. There is no such thing as quick or simple removal without contacting a lawn care professional. Unfortunately, tree stumps can take up huge amounts of space in a potential garden- so their existence can be quite a burden until they finally degrade years later. So how can we accomplish the daunting task of removing an unsightly stump? Either you can gather up the commitment to take care of the headache yourself, or you can hire somebody to do the job for you. Whichever way you choose to take back your yard, you will enjoy the freedom to plant a new tree, extend your garden, or just enjoy soft luscious grass.

Do it Yourself

The stump removal process begins with our favorite tool: the chain saw. The stump should be cut down as close to the ground as possible to remove the excess wood. After you are left with just a small amount of stump it is time to drill a few holes to fill with nitrogen fertilizer. Then it’s time to soak the entire area, roots and all, with water before covering with a tarp. Mulch and stones will keep the tarp in place while providing the perfect atmosphere for moisture and decomposition. Now it’s time to kick back and remain patient. This method only speeds up the natural decaying process of the tree stump- reducing the decomposition period by years! Of course, there is a much faster way to get the job done…

Choose a Professional

Yeah, as much as we all love the entire idea of DIY, sometimes you just have to give in to the people with the right tools. A tree service professional should have no problem undertaking the task of stump grinding, which means that your month long job could be completed in just hours! What these professionals do is utilize a powerful piece of machinery that will grind away the stump and remaining roots, leaving the ground fertile and ready for beautiful new growth. What’s left behind after stump grinding is basically all-natural mulch. Homeowners often go this route so that they can avoid the stench of rotting trunk hanging around the yard for months. To be honest- I don’t blame them!

Winter Care for Potted Evergreens

The holiday season is almost over, and green households all over the nation will soon be left with potted evergreens and no idea what to do with them during remainder of winter. Fortunately, the process of overwintering an evergreen is an inexpensive weekend project will ensure your investment is protected even during the harshest weather. Nobody wants to spend all winter fretting over his or her dying evergreen, so prepare your tree for the worst!

Choosing a Spot

Find an area of your yard that provides protection from harsh western winds and potentially damaging southern sun, erecting a trellis or wind barrier if nothing else is available. Make sure that your chosen location is far away from any roads or sidewalks that will be treated with salt because these plants are extremely sensitive to the substance- even in the air.

Overwintering the Evergreen

Even plastic pots can shatter because of freezing temperature, which is why the container of an overwintered evergreen must be buried in the ground. This will keep temperatures stable and the roots will remain safe. Be sure that the hole is just deep enough for the edges of the container to be level with the ground to prevent water accumulation, and make the area flat with some loose soil and autumn leaves.

Maintenance and Care

Since moisture loss is a real danger to potted evergreens it’s important to keep an eye out for those above-freezing days on which it would be safe to water the plant. If the plant is sustaining too much damage from the cold climate, it may be necessary to wrap the entire tree in a burlap sack. If the weather is just too extreme, the pot and plant may be moved inside a dark garage or a cold cellar. Your evergreens will certainly appreciate the effort and will live to see another beautiful spring!

Growing Citrus Trees Indoors

Dwarf fruit trees are sometimes all it takes to bring the tropics indoors for the winter. The fresh scent of citrus could provide just the right pick-me-up for any stale interior, while providing all of the benefits of a garden right in the home. Growing these little trees is a bit trickier than raising the average houseplant but the yields will prove to be worth the effort!

Choosing a Citrus Tree

Your choice of tree should take into account factors like sunshine availability, space, and upkeep. Trees that produce sour fruit often require less sunlight than other species. If you’re looking for a tree that will produce edible delicious goodies, choose something like the Sunquat or Papaya, both of which produce fruit that can be eaten straight off the tree. If aesthetics are more important, the Calamondin Orange will produce fragrant flowers and sour ornamental fruit, which can be used in marmalade or left to hang for months. Before planting a tree, consider all of the possibilities: it's likely that your citrus will outlive any plant you've owned before!

Potting a Citrus Tree

Drainage is very important but easily forgotten. Those who choose to keep indoor trees often focus more on the visual design of the pot while forgetting all about functionality. If the planter you choose doesn’t have drainage holes, simply keep the tree in a simple drainable pot inside of the larger one. Make sure to place a layer of gravel or broken pottery underneath the soil, which should preferably be light and airy. Larger trees may eventually be placed on a platform with wheels, to make trimming and pruning a little easier.

Citrus Tree Upkeep

Bright, direct light is recommended for most species of dwarf citrus tree. In the summer months, these dwarf varieties can enjoy some outdoor sun. Although your indoor plant may produce plenty of pretty blossoms, not all of them will produce fruit without a gentle helping hand. If you’ve gone a couple seasons with no results, try taking a dry paintbrush and gently transferring pollen from one flower to the next. By keeping your citrus happy and healthy, you’ll be enjoying limitless fruit all year long from the comfort of your own home!

How to Attract Winter Birds

Nothing makes a chilly winter morning brighter than a yard full of colorful chirping birds. Those who don’t seem to get any wild visitors may wonder how to persuade our feathered friends to make an appearance. The truth is that they’ll come running (well, flying) once you set out the right incentives. Even those who live in the city don’t have to miss out on unexpected seasonal company. In fact, no matter where you live winter birds often have the hardest time finding quality food and water and will certainly appreciate your generous resources. Whether you are decorating a balcony window or a yard, it’s cheap and easy to attract a variety of cheerful species that will be your own personal choir for the holidays.  

Benefits

In much of North America the winter nights are long, days are short, and food is scarce for local wildlife. Insects are generally dead or dormant, inaccessible to birds that eat them at their number one fat and caloric intake. Hanging bites to eat from your native trees will encourage the spread of seeds and berries to the local ecosystem after the bird takes off, while providing safe windbreak in the mean time. Ensuring that winter bird needs are met will keep local populations well-fed and healthy, for your enjoyment on frosty winter days with the family or over a cup of coffee.

Food

To attract a wide variety of bird, you’ll need an equally diverse availability of seed. Cheap mixes should be avoided, because the cost is still much too high for the low-quality content. Fillers are often used that the birds don’t eat, which becomes food for squirrels or just rots on the ground. Black sunflower seeds are great for attracting all kinds of birds, including blue jays, goldfinches, chickadees, and cardinals. Suet is a fatty byproduct of beef or venison, unfit for human consumption but perfect for wild birds. It must always be hung as not to attract other mammals. Bird feeders can be constructed out of household waste, like two-liter bottles or biodegradable cardboard tubes.

Water

Winter birds often suffer more from lack of fresh, unfrozen water than they do from scarcity of food. A solar powered heater can be purchased for traditional birdbaths. Heat lamps are perfect for the occasional melt, if the birdbath is located under a closed roof. The hassle can be eliminated by simply pouring some warm water over the ice when the sun is the strongest and watch as the birds congregate for a nice drink and dip!

Attracting winter birds is made much easier by simply providing the all-around complete package. Planting hardy evergreen trees will ensure that birds thrive for your company and enjoyment all year long. Winter isn't the only time that our feathery friends can benefit from a little helping hand, but it certainly isn't a bad time to start.

Have a Green Thanksgiving

What is a better way to give “thanks” for our bountiful resources than by reducing the amount of environmental impact caused by the holidays? Surveys suggest that household waste increases more than 25% just between Thanksgiving and New Years. Going green doesn’t have to put a damper on the traditional aspects of the holidays: our ancestors were pretty green without even knowing it. Before the days of refrigerated semi-trucks and chemical preservatives people tended not to waste resources the way our culture tends to. That’s why it has become a growing trend to get back to the basics while still enjoying rich Thanksgiving traditions. 

Here are just a few simple ways to enjoy the holidays while saving money and celebrating sustainably: 

Eat, Drink, and be Merry

Just be thoughtful about how you do it. Purchase locally what you can because transportation used to haul out of season foods cross country around Thanksgiving makes it a wonder more of us don’t experience smoggy Christmases. Farmers markets are always hopping in the autumn making it easier than ever to serve delicious sustainable local food. Choosing organic can ensure that your leftover scraps will make great garden compost- another green benefit that arises without cutting out the enjoyable tradition of gorging ourselves. 

Make the Occasion Beautiful

Homemade decorations don’t have to look like third-grade classroom projects. Local trees can lend a hand when it comes to adding elegance to the table. Acorns may be used to adorn napkin ties or even centerpieces while dried leaves make creative place cards. Use long, flexible sticks collected from autumn tree pruning to create festive fall wreaths. Avoid using disposable plates for small gatherings and instead break out the fine china for the adults. Water costs can be saved by washing the dishes all at once to give our water supplies a much needed break as well. 

Avoid Couch Potato Syndrome

It may seem like a great idea to take a nap in front of the tube after a filling meal and good conversation. Instead, attempt to get the family outside to enjoy the fresh air before the winter chills set in. The fall can be a great time for planting trees which can be a great way to show young ones appreciation for the environment and the importance of giving back. Playing football instead of watching it is a great idea to blow off some steam and avoid some of those excess pounds of holiday “thanks”.

John F. Kennedy said it the best: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Our families and friends are worthy of celebration during the holidays, but so is the environment that makes it all possible. Going green for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean forfeiting our favorite holiday traditions- it means adapting them in ways that creates a real display of giving thanks.

Native Missouri Trees for Saint Louis

The city of St. Louis forestry department plants up to 5000 trees every year in order to keep air, water, and visual appearance of the city fresh and clean. But what can your average Joe really do in response to such constructive action? Match it! Now, I’m not suggesting that every single citizen goes out and plants thousands of trees, but each neighborhood planting just one tree can really add up and eventually we can double or triple the great start provided by the forestry department. Knowing which trees to plant and how to maintain each variety may seem a little difficult. Fortunately, Missouri provides the perfect home to hundreds of beautiful native varieties. 

Sugar Maple

Sugar maples are responsible for much of the beautiful fall foliage that St. Louis is practically famous for. In fact, the range of colors that the sugar maple is capable of is very nearly a rainbow, some flaunting almost violet leaves. While these trees are slow in growing, they could eventually reach up to 115 feet tall proving a wonderful investment that is sure to increase the value of any home with the space to grow one. Keeping in mind the location will ensure no trimming will be necessary in the future. 

Flowering Dogwood

The cornus florida is the state tree of Missouri, and has always proved a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a bit of soft decoration to existing landscapes. The abundant flowers are usually white, but can be pink or even red depending on the variety you purchase. The fruits produced from flowering dogwoods are an important source of food for hundreds of species of local birds. 

Catalpa

The native catalpa speciosa has found its place around many homes in the area. These beautiful trees feature large flowers, and should not be planted near roadways because of the slick petals. Long pods of fruit hang from the trees and are considered very decorative, although some find them unattractive. The attractiveness of the large whorled leaves is undisputed though, which lends to this species overwhelming popularity.

Whichever variety of native tree you are planning to plant, consider the location of the species. A local tree service should be able to give you information about planting locations so you won’t have to pay tree maintenance fees later. Planning and proper care are both necessary to ensure that your new hardy native variety will remain a part of your home for the years to come.

How to Make a “Seed Bomb”

Don’t worry- a seed bomb is not as threatening as it sounds! These little beauties are simply balls of compressed soil and clay that contain various flower and tree seeds. They can be thrown into those ugly patches of underutilized dirt that appear in defunct parking lots and vacated building sites, and what was once an eyesore will become a thriving ecosystem of lush greenery. Similar products can be purchased from eco-stores, but they are just too much fun to make at home. 

What will I need?

-Red Clay

Red clay will protect the seed bomb, make it portable, and provide the growing plants vital minerals. It’s best to use natural red clay, and not a craft-store substitute.

-Compost

Compost can be made of fertilizer or high-grade potting soil mixed with organic material. A lot of people choose to compost kitchen scraps at home, another eco-friendly way to garden.

-Seeds

The seeds that you choose should be native varieties that will provide a pleasing aesthetic look. These must be hardy plants so that they can survive without any outside care. Be extremely careful not to introduce any invasive species to your area.

How do I make my own seed bombs?

The basic recipe for a seed bomb contains 1 part seeds, 3 parts compost, and 5 parts dry red clay. You will also need some pure water to make the mixture pliable and shapeable. The seeds and compost should be combined first, and then the clay should be added in the appropriate measure. Make sure to avoid adding too much water or you will end up with a very soupy mess. You can make a large batch and form your bombs from there. The sun is the best way to dry them, letting them sit but avoiding “baking” them. 

These seed bombs are a great way to improve your neighborhood while giving the environment a little boost. Fresher air means healthier bodies. Trees and flowers are a visual gift to almost any area.

Planting Perfect Fruit Trees in Georgia

Georgia is famous for thriving crop plantations and beautiful flowering trees but this state is perfect for much more than that. Planting fruit trees on your property will give you fresh organic fruit and cool shade in the sweltering summer. This state has the perfect growth climate for a huge variety of fruit trees. In this article I am going to outline my three favorite fruit trees that take just perfect to Georgia weather. 

Yoshino Cherry Tree

This particular variety of cherry tree is so celebrated in Georgia, that there is a yearly festival dedicated to these delicious cherries in Macon! These trees grow to be a rather small size, with a typical maximum spread of 15 feet. These trees bloom with pinkish flowers in the spring and make a very attractive option for any yard. Maintenance for this variety is almost non-existent, but during a drought it will need to be watered. The Yoshino prefers moist, well drained soil. They originated in Asia, but have adapted to Georgia’s climate beautifully. 

Shockley Apple

Shockley apple trees are common to the northern region of Georgia. The apples yielded by these trees typically reach full ripeness in the latter half of October. Shockley apples are rich and sweet, and the trees don’t get too large as to be unmanageable. These trees approach an average height of 15 to 18 feet when grown in full sun with well-drained soil. Shockleys just won’t thrive well in areas that are prone to flooding of any kind.

Belle of Georgia Peach Tree

Of course, Georgia is famous for its legendary peach orchards. The Belle is just one of many varieties of peach found in the state, but this tree happens to be great for yard growth. With a maximum height of 15 to 25 feet and a total spread of anywhere between 8 to 20 feet, you will be sure to harvest more peaches than you can possibly eat. I hope you like sharing with friends!

Fast Growing Trees

When planting trees on your property, you may want to reap the benefits of a fully grown tree as soon as possible. Of course, who wouldn’t want comfortable shade and fresher local air sooner? Luckily, there are several species of tree that won’t make you wait ten to twenty years for decent height and stature.

3. Lombardy Poplar
Lombardy poplars are an extremely versatile tree variety that has cropped up all over the United States. These trees are often planted in rows, as a windbreak or as an attractive property line. This poplar happens to grow a speedy 8-10 ft. per year, meaning that you will quickly have tall trees. In just three years, you can have a 40 ft tree!

2. Willow Hybrid
These hybrids are the fastest growing willow. They grow to be thick and lusciously green. These trees can become rather tall when mature, up to 75 feet! New homeowners often want to go the natural route when it comes to privacy fences, and planting this tree variety in rows will ensure you will have one quickly- growing 6-12 ft per year.

1. Empress Tree
If you are planting a tree for mostly visual purposes the Empress, or Paulownia, may be an excellent choice. These trees produce fragrant, colorful blooms. The timber itself is very valuable. This tree has a unique aesthetic quality and will make your yard look absolutely beautiful. These trees can be planted over most of the United States, and will grow an astonishing 10-15 feet per year until it reaches its mature height of 50 feet.


These three species of tree are all very versatile, and your local tree planting expert should be well versed in these popular varieties! Most of us don’t want to wait up to ten years for a proud, tall tree. That’s why planting one of these fast growing varieties may be a great investment for you.

How Trees Can Help Your Garden

As a gardener knee deep in soil and weeds, there often isn’t much time to wonder about what trees can do for your garden.  Besides being a pain to mow around, what are the benefits? The answer to this question is that every part of the tree, from leaf to root, can benefit your garden in some way. Trees can not only benefit the health and appearance of your garden, but they can also save you quite a bit of money each year.

Stump Grinding

Stumps can present a major hurdle when it comes to choosing a garden plot. What many people don’t know is that you can turn that ugly, space hogging stump into a wealth of nutrition for your future garden. A stump grinding expert can utilize special equipment to take the danger out of root and stump removal. After the stump and its accompanying roots have been removed, the ground will be renewed and full of fresh nutrients. This process will turn a previously unusable area into a place that is perfect to plant or expand your garden.

Leaves to Mulch

Instead of bagging those leaves in the fall, why not consider turning them into mulch? All of the autumn leaves that otherwise clog the landfills could offer some serious potential benefits to your garden. The leaves will immediately begin to slow the growth of weeds. As they degrade, the leaves will begin to deposit huge amounts of nutrients, priming the area for planting in the spring. Consider asking your friends and neighbors for their lawn scraps as well. Mulching or composting your leaves will give you the double benefit of strengthening your garden while saving valuable landfill space. Your garden and the environment will thank you.

Trees as Windbreak

Planting a tree or a series of shrubs between your garden and the harsh winds may be a very wise investment. The harsh winter and fall winds can devastate harvests and ruin existing plants. When winds kick up in the winter, small fruit trees tend to take the hit the hardest. When using trees and shrubs as windbreak, evergreens can always be considered a safe bet. They stay full throughout the winter, giving the best protection. If you are going to go with shrubs, make sure they are dense enough to have an effect. The lack of a decent windbreak could leave your garden and fruit trees devastated come spring.