PHC on the Lookout – Protect Susceptible Evergreens during harsh Chicago Winters
The colder temperatures, blowing winds and snow will begin soon. Chicagoans must once again brace themselves for a cold winter. While we can’t do much about Chicago winters, we can help protect our evergreen trees and shrubs through the winter months. Whereas deciduous trees and shrubs lose their leaves in the winter, evergreens retain foliage […]
Happy Holidays!
Boughs of holly, candy canes and visions of gifts under the tree. These are just a few things that help make the season merry and bright. With the holidays just around the corner, many people have begun their own traditions. The Elf on the Shelf has appeared in many homes. Children are enjoying Advent calendars […]
Tip of the Week – Winter Beauty with a Winter Garden
This time of year, outdoor color and interest is usually lacking. Annuals have finished their season, perennials have died back and deciduous trees and shrubs have become bare. But don’t lose hope. There are many striking options to add color and attraction in the winter landscape. One option is evergreen trees and shrubs, which add […]
Tip of the Week – What is Seasonal Needle Drop?
Needle drop is a term used to describe the normal process that happens to many evergreens during the fall season. While it is usually a normal occurrence it can be worrisome for homeowners not familiar with this seasonal change. Keep in mind that every needle on an evergreen has a certain life span. As it […]
Tip of the Week – Winter Burn
Spring has sprung and Mother Nature is returning color back into our landscape; trees are breaking dormancy, spring ephemerals are covering the forest floors and flower blooms are becoming abundant. This flush of growth brings relief that winter is behind us, but also accentuates the damaging effects of the past dormant season. Specific winter injury […]
PHC on the Lookout – Continue Watering!
Don’t put that hose away yet! With temperatures in the Chicago area expected to reach the upper 40’s this week, watering is still crucial to the landscape. Although many trees and shrubs appear dormant, they still continue to require our attention. To minimize winter water loss and winter burn, ensure your landscape is receiving adequate […]
PHC on the Lookout – Protect Susceptible Evergreens during harsh Chicago Winters
The colder temperatures, blowing winds and snow are beginning. Chicagoans must once again brace themselves for a cold winter. Rumors are swirling that the “polar vortex” weather conditions will return this winter. While we can’t do much about Chicago winters, we can help protect your evergreen trees and shrubs through the winter months. Whereas deciduous […]
PHC on the Lookout – Continue Watering Evergreens!
Although temperatures are beginning to drop, evergreen trees and shrubs continue to require our attention. The dry conditions in our area increase the amount of stress placed on trees and shrubs, including evergreens. To minimize winter water loss and winter burn, ensure evergreens receive adequate moisture. Water all evergreens during dry weather periods, until the […]
Tip of the Week – Protect Susceptible Evergreens during hard Chicago Winters
Brown, dead needles and brittle twigs and buds are all possible indicators of a desiccated or dehydrated evergreen. While deciduous trees lose their leaves in the winter, evergreens retain foliage and protect themselves from winter water loss with a variety of natural protection mechanisms. Even with these protections, a warm sunny day during the dormant […]