2 minute read
In the Shade of a Tree
by Jeremy Sirkin, Expert Contributor and Owner of Executive Tree Care
There’s no doubt that 2020 and the beginning of 2021 will make it into the record books for a lot of reasons. A global pandemic, a presidential election and a new form of life called “virtual,” all without hugs and handshakes.
While everyone’s lives were consumed with other things, outside their windows, their yards were seething with life as usual. Trees, plants, animals and insects were all striving to thrive. The trees and landscape dealt with every type of weather — all while providing shade and beauty. The insects, from the beneficial bug to the invasive pest, were born, consumed all they could, reproduced and died.
Over the last decade, the field of Agriculture has had to contend with a number of new target-specific invasive insect pests such as the Spotted Lantern Fly (Lycorma delicatula) or SLF. Known by its vivid colors and utter nuisance populations, this pest has been a source of destructive annoyance for many homeowners.
SLFs are plant-hoppers and lazy in flight despite having two sets of wings. They feed on a number of host plants, including Grape, Ailanthus and Silver Maple trees among many others. The good news is that with proper treatment, SLF populations collapse. A lot of research has gone into providing customers appropriate control while protecting the environment. Reputable tree care providers follow the guidelines set by the Penn State Agricultural Extension Office and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
The other pest, which is of even greater concern, is the Emerald Ash Bore (Agrilus planipennis) or EAB. These iridescent, dark-green pests grow to roughly ½-inch long and 1/8-inch across. Unlike the first-named pest, EABs are responsible for billions of dollars in damage and many millions of lost trees. That being said, control IS possible when treatment is provided before the first signs. A “vaccination” of healthy trees is a logical analogy. Comprehensive data and material recommendations can be provided to customers as a proven way to save their Ash trees. Such information also explains the negative impact of losing a key feature of their properties.
In the 140+ years of modern arboriculture, people have made a growing connection with the trees on their properties and in their landscapes. Thankfully, many have noticed that when their trees are alive, they hold a much higher value than just to provide shade or firewood. The environment and urban microclimates are greatly improved when trees are flourishing. Consult with a certified arborist for a comprehensive evaluation and a better life in the shade.
Jeremy Sirkin, Expert Contributor, Marple Resident and Owner of Executive Tree Care
EXECUTIVE TREE CARE
Recognized throughout Delaware County for improving home investments through professional residential and commercial tree, plant and shrub care.
484-451-8900
www.Executive-TreeCare.com
Emergency Tree Removal & Storm Cleanup • Tree Pruning & Trimming • Tree & Shrub Fertilization •Tree Planting, Care & Monitoring • Stump Grinding & Stump Removal • Tree Safety Inspections, Cabling & Bracing • Insect & Disease Management
