Tip of the Week – What Makes a Tree or Shrub Invasive?
Aggressive, hostile and annoying are all words used to describe something that is invasive. The same can be said for plants. Plants are considered invasive if the species is not native to the local ecosystem or has disrupted the natural community or ecological functions. Invasive plants are introduced into a region either accidentally or intentionally, […]
PHC on the Lookout – Dormant Oil Spray Applications Starting!
Just as the name indicates, dormant oil is an oily product that is sprayed on plant foliage during the plant’s dormant season. It is a relatively safe method for controlling certain plant attacking pests, in that it does little harm to beneficial insects, birds and animals. The Plant Health Care Department will begin dormant oil […]
PHC on the Lookout – Not just People become Stressed!
There are many events that occur in our daily lives that cause stress. Job deadlines, kid’s activities and social commitments can all lead to a busy and possibly stressful period in our lives. Trees and shrubs may not deal with these issues, but they do experience stress. Plant stress occurs for a number of reasons. […]
Tip of the Week – Go Native!
Illinois offers the perfect environment for a wide variety of beautiful and interesting trees. While many non-native trees have made Illinois their home, native trees are always a great selection when designing your landscape. Adaptability, hardiness and longevity of life are just a few reasons to choose trees native to our area. Native tree species […]
iLandscape™ the illinois + wisconsin Landscape Show returns!
iLandscape™ is the Show dedicated to today’s landscape professionals. The Show is designed to inform, innovate and inspire attendees. The Illinois Landscape Contractors Association and the Wisconsin Green Industry Federation joined forces in 2013 to create iLandscape™. The first Landscape Show was in 2014 and was a huge success. The 2015 iLandscape™ Landscape Show is […]
PHC on the Lookout – Is Spring Coming?
While we are anticipating many more weeks of winter, spring is on the horizon and will make an appearance in the near future. Every year is a little different and unfortunately, Mother Nature does not usually follow the calendar. How can we determine when the appropriate time is for plant care? Mother Nature offers many […]
Tip of the Week – What is a Certificate of Insurance?
There are many factors that must be examined when selecting a contractor for work performed at your home or on your property. One critical component is to request that the contractor provide a valid and current Certificate of Insurance (COI) before work is started. Contracting work with an uninsured or underinsured company or individual can […]
It’s Valentine’s Day. No Roses for Your Sweetie!
Roses and boxes of candy are both nice gifts for Valentine’s Day, but think outside the box this year with personal and unique ideas that will woo your sweetheart. Does your honey like to cook? An herb plant, such as Rosemary offers culinary delight and a refreshing scent that is sure to enchant. Does your […]
PHC on the Lookout – Plant Health Care Proposals are Coming Soon!
With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start planning for the health of your trees. The extreme weather conditions we’ve experienced in the past couple of years have made it more important than ever to properly care for your trees and shrubs. The PHC Department has emailed proposals to commercial clients. Residential clients […]
Start the Year off Right! The CAI Conference & Expo is February 6-7th
Returning for the 33rd year, the Community Associations Institute (CAI) is hosting their annual Conference & Expo at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. The event is February 6th and 7th. The Conference & Expo is open to members or non-members of CAI, which include individual homeowners, businesses, property managers and community associations. […]