Every year, on the April 22nd, Earth Day is held to help demonstrate and promote environmental protection. Since 1970, countries worldwide have celebrated and individuals are encouraged to participate in Earth Day activities. We feel privileged everyday that we can to help mother earth with tree care for our customers. It’s Earth Day everyday! We are learning more and more that everyone can make a difference by planting trees. While Splintered Forest strives to make an impact by sending tips about tree care to our customers and we also make environmentally conscious decisions by using wood recyclers and giving away firewood, we thought we would research other (maybe not as well known) but five important ways to recycle.
1) Markers
Crayola partners with schools across North America to help kids understand their role in protecting the environment and save markers from going to the landfill with the Crayola ColorCycle Program. The steps to participate are easy:
For more information about starting the program at your school, visit Crayola ColorCycle.
2) Plastic Bags
According the US EPA, Americans use more than 380 billion plastic bags and wraps each year. Since plastic bags are petroleum-based, they do not biodegrade and it is estimated that less than 5% off plastics are recycled worldwide. How can you help? Utilize local recycle bins at local retailers such as King Soopers, Safeway and Walmart to recycle your plastic bags. Some helpful tips:
Need help finding a place to recycle your plastic bags? Visit Earth911 for locations near you!
3) Bathroom Products
Many people overlook their bathroom products as items that can be recycled. Generally, plastic bottles that are marked with a #1 or #2 can be accepted in the household recycling. To help encourage bathroom recycling, participating CVS locations are giving away a bin with a qualifying purchase.
Items such as toothpaste containers and toothbrushes do not qualify for household recycling, but programs such as TerraCycle have created mail-in programs for these items.
Perhaps you are ready to skip the containers all together? Companies are now creating items such as toothpaste and shampoo tablets to help eliminate this packaging waste.
4) Makeup
MAC encourages their customers to recycle the “primary packaging” (what actually holds the product) of makeup such as lipstick, lash cases, blush compacts and eye shadow pots through their Back-to-MAC Program. Return six MAC makeup containers to their store and receive a free lipstick (they will also accept other brand items for recycling, but they won’t qualify for the free item)!
Other companies also encouraging recycling include:
5) Electronic Recycling
Local Best Buy stores offer recycling of your electronic items including:
Households are limited to three items per day. To learn more about what they accept visit their website.
6) Rechargeable Batteries
The Home Depot partnered with Call to Recycle to offer recycling of rechargeable batteries to customers. Batteries commonly found in traditional household items (cordless power tools, laptops, remote control toys, digital cameras, etc) are all eligible to be recycled at participating stores. Please note, batteries must be under 11 pounds.
Have you heard of some of these programs? Know of other programs that allow recycling of common, household items? Share them with us!
To find your nearest drop off location, visit Call2Recycle.
Learn more about Tree Planting Services from Splintered Forest.
Splintered Forest is proud to have an exhibitor booth at the upcoming Colorado Garden & Home Show at the Colorado Convention Center February 24 – March 4th. Use this coupon to receive $2 off your entry fee and come visit us at Booth #1373!
For more information about the show, visit http://coloradogardenfoundation.org/colorado-garden-home-show
Have you ever wondered what optimal tree pruning heights are? When deciding how high to prune your trees, it is easy to wonder how high they should actually be pruned. In many cases the height is completely up to the home/property owner, but there are certain cases when it is better to prune them higher and some situations when it is fine to leave them lower.
Here are some things to consider when determining optimal pruning options for your trees:
All Trees: Most municipalities require street trees or trees that grow over sidewalks and roads to be at a certain height. In most cases this is about 8 feet over the sidewalk and 13 feet over the street, and street signs must also be visible from 150 feet away. Not having your tree pruned to these heights can sometimes result in fines or branches being broken by vehicles passing by. This is not required for young trees which are not tall enough to be pruned to these heights, but they will still need to be pruned to prevent damage to their lower limbs by passing vehicles.
Evergreens: While some trees don’t have lower branches from a young age, evergreens can have many lower branches that often touch the ground. Thankfully they are not usually prone to competing with the central stem so leaving them is fine in most cases. In some situations, it is a good idea to remove a few feet of the lower branches such as when excessive amounts of moisture are present. Needlecast diseases can spread and cause needles on the lower areas of the tree to discolor and drop. They are rare in the Front Range due to the dry climate, but when trees are overwatered and have inadequate draining these diseases can occur.
Deciduous: Deciduous trees can often have lower branches that arise early in their life or due to stress. If left to grow these branches can become too large to remove with a simple pruning without stressing out the tree or leaving it susceptible to infection or decay.
A deciduous tree is one that sheds leaves on an annual basis (typically this happens in the fall or winter). These trees go through a process called leaf senescence, which is triggered by changes in temperature, daylight, and water availability. As the leaves prepare to fall, the tree moves nutrients and resources to the branches and roots to survive the winter. Deciduous trees are common in temperate regions and provide stunning color displays as they change throughout the seasons. Examples of these trees include maple trees, elm trees, oak trees, etc.
When health and ordinances are not a concern, the optimal tree pruning heights can be determined by the owners personal preference — trees can be pruned to any height. Most home/property owners prefer to leave their trees as low as possible when they are younger and they opt to have the limbs pruned up only to allow for any necessary landscaping to be planted underneath the canopy.
To receive a free estimate for your next tree pruning project, contact one of Splintered Forest’s ISA Certified Arborists to discuss your options. Call us today at (303) 819-9840, text us or submit a form online to schedule your no obligation consultation today!
Sources:
https://extension.colostate.edu/docs/misc/NeedleCasts.pdf
Nectria canker is a common problem found with honey locust trees that impacts not only the health of the tree, but its overall appearance as well. This fungal infection can severely weaken the honey locust, causing dieback in the branches and even be lethal to the tree in a severe case.
Continue reading to learn more about what it is, how to recognize it and tips to help you prevent/manage your honey locust trees to help keep them healthy.
Nectria cankers are a fungal disease that affects honey locust trees. They are caused by a few different species of fungus, but can cause the same damage and an untimely death in trees. They are the biggest killer of honey locust trees along the Front Range.
This fungal disease blocks the vascular system of the tree and causes branches to die due to lack of adequate water and if left unchecked the tree can also die.
We hope this blog has provided some valuable information on nectria canker. If you suspect your trees have been infected, contact an ISA Certified Arborist at Splintered Forest today to get your free assessment of your honey locust tree. Click here to submit a free estimate or give us a call at (303) 819-9840.
Sources:
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/honeylocust-diseases-2-939/
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/insect-and-mite-pests-of-honeylocust-5-571/
Frost cracks are vertical splits in the bark of a tree and are most often associated with smoother barked trees. These cracks are common in young Maple trees and Sycamore or London-Plane Trees. Warming and cooling of the bark and underlying wood causes the bark to split when it rapidly cools, but the wood underneath does not.
While similar in nature, sunscald is a more damaging wound for a tree. Usually occurring on the south or southwest side of the tree, the increased temperature causes cells to exit dormancy and begin to transport water. However, with normal Winter night temperatures, the cells then freeze and the rapidly expanding water causes cells to burst and die. Sunscald can either appear as patches of damage or jagged edge cracks.
The easiest method for protecting young trees from frost cracks is to protect the bark from changing temperatures. Tree wrap offers a simple and cost effective method for protecting the bark from the sudden changes in temperature by blocking sunlight and retaining some heat to prevent the cells underneath from refreezing after heating up. Crepe paper wraps should be light in color and wrapped on the trunk of the tree up to the first branch. It should be applied as early as late-November and removed by mid-April to prevent retention of moisture, which can cause fungal growth. It is important to note that tree wraps should only be used for the first few years after planting as by then the tree should have developed a thick enough bark to not be affected by significant heating and freezing.
If your tree already has Winter damage, then the best thing to do is to help it recover from its wounds and start to compartmentalize the damage. Mulching to help the tree retain water and fertilizing to ensure the tree has all the nutrients it needs will help keep your tree healthy and better suited to survive any damage caused or pests that may take the opportunity to attack the stressed tree.
If you are worried that your tree may have experienced some damage or want to discuss options for protecting them, give the Splintered Forest Tree Services team a call today! Our Plant Health Care specialists are available to discuss your options to keep your trees in optimal health. Call us today at 303-819-9840 or request your Plant Health Care appointment for a free estimate for frost cracks and many other services to keep trees healthy.
Sources:
https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/653.pdf
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/frost_cracks_in_trees
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/frost_cracks_and_winter_damage_to_trees
The threat of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has become a major issue for many residents in the Denver Metro area within the last few years. The beetle has shown no signs of slowing down its spread and many untreated/infected trees are showing signs of decline or beginning to die. Many options for management of infected trees and preventative treatments exist and each have their own set of pros and cons. Methods include:
Injection of chemicals is the safest chemical method for treating and managing an EAB infestation. The chemicals applied are contained in the trunk of the tree so there is less of a chance of contamination of other plants or harm from contact by humans or pets.
Soil injections of Imidacloprid or Dinotefuran are among the cheapest methods of
treatments for EAB. They are relatively non-invasive and just require turf access around the drip line of the tree. There are some drawbacks.
These drawbacks include:
Foliar sprays and trunk sprays are also a viable method for management of EAB.
They are most effective when applied prior to the emergence of the adult beetle however they are highly invasive as the area around the tree must be clear of people and pets for the duration of the spray and until the chemical has dried. They also have a lower effectiveness due to the chance of missing the spray window or incomplete coverage of chemicals.
Removal and replacement of your Ash tree may be a larger financial burden, but
the cost of removal and replacement could be a better choice if the tree is not large or is too far declined for any viable treatments. Replacement trees would be unaffected by EAB due to their species and could save you money on upkeep and treatment costs over time.
Some unmanaged methods of control are predators that may feed on the larval stage. Woodpeckers, in addition to being a method of detection for infected trees, have a significant effect on the mortality of larvae. The downside is that the presence of woodpeckers can cause additional damage to the tree as they try to get to the larvae and that the infestation rate in the tree may be very high and thus too high for the tree to be viable for other treatments.
When choosing a method of protection for your trees there are some important things to note.
Emamectin Benzoate is the most effective chemical on the market, it can be administered via a trunk injection with over a 90% effectiveness rate. The treatment is good for up to three years (on average), but most treatment plans are repeated every two years to keep active chemical levels in the tree at a therapeutic level.
Imidacloprid is another chemical on the market which has shown promising protection rates against EAB. It is the only chemical on the market that is also available to consumers for at home treatment methods, however it is sold at a less concentrated mixture rate and is usually applied via soil drench in these products which can lead to runoff of the chemical and can cause harm to other insects if absorbed by other plants. These treatments also need to be repeated every year to maintain efficacy against the beetle.
Keeping firewood in the location of the tree that was removed can cause further
spread of the beetle to other healthy trees. Chipping of the material is ideal as infested wood can spread beetles for another cycle even after removal.
If firewood is kept it must be covered and sealed with a clear tarp for at least one year, debarked to prevent larvae from maturing into adults and emerging or it must be kiln dried to kill remaining larvae and eggs. It is also highly recommended that firewood not be moved from where it is cut; this will prevent the spread of eggs and future adults that can then infect other trees.
EAB is moving into south Denver and has been detected in Littleton, Co. At Splintered Forest we are here to prevent the spread to the ash trees on your property. Our team of Arborists and Plant Health Care professionals are available to provide free estimates to help keep your trees healthy and your landscape beautiful. Give our team a call today at 303-819-9840 or visit Save My Ash for a free estimate for EAB Injections.
From Egg to Invading: The Full Emerald Ash Borer Life Cycle
The Emerald Ash Borer or more commonly referred to as EAB goes through many cycles before emerging as a mature adult. Continue reading to learn more about each part of the invasive pests life cycle.
Eggs
Eggs are approximately 1mm in size and laid by females in the cracks and crevices of the bark of ash trees. Females can lay anywhere from 40 to 200 eggs that will hatch about two weeks later. Upon hatching the larvae will then burrow into the trees inner bark layers and begin to feed.
Larvae
The larval stage is the most dangerous stage of the beetles life. Larvae tunnel into the bark upon hatching from their eggs. They then spend all of their time eating tissues that the tree would need to transport water and nutrients. This damage of vital tissues can quickly become deadly to the ash tree because of the number of larvae doing damage and their aggressive nature. As they feed their movements form a distinct S-shaped pattern which can be seen when bark is removed. This is the stage most often selected to chemically treat an infestation as the larvae will feed on treated wood and then die.
Overwinter
After feeding on tree matter for one to two years, the larvae will overwinter and begin to pupate in the spring. This overwintering in the tree keeps the larvae and pupae safe from cold weather and potential predators.
Pupae
The pupa is the final form before emerging as a mature adult. It merely is a stage to facilitate metamorphosis to the final adult beetle stage.
Adults
Adults can emerge any time between late-May and September, but the majority of them will emerge by July and begin to mate and lay eggs. As they exit, they form D-shaped exit holes which can be used to identify the beetle’s presence in a tree. The adult form does minimal damage to the tree as they usually feed on the leaves of the tree and mate before dying, but their ability to fly up to a quarter mile aids in their spread.
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) poses a significant threat to ash trees, causing extensive damage throughout its life cycle. Recognizing the signs, exploring treatment options, and understanding preventive measures are crucial for preserving these valuable trees.
Identifying signs of EAB damage is vital for early intervention. Look for distinct D-shaped exit holes left by emerging adults, as well as canopy thinning, bark splits, and epicormic shoots—new growth arising from the tree’s base or trunk. Recognizing these indicators early can be instrumental in minimizing the impact on ash trees.
Timely treatment is essential to combat EAB infestations. Various methods, including chemical treatments and insecticides, are available. Chemical treatments during the larval stage can effectively control the population by targeting feeding larvae. Consulting with arborists or plant health care professionals is recommended to determine the most suitable treatment approach for specific situations.
Implementing preventive measures is crucial in areas prone to EAB infestations. Regular inspections, early detection, and prompt treatment can help protect ash trees. Consider systemic insecticides that are absorbed by the tree, providing long-term protection against EAB. Establishing a proactive treatment plan can significantly enhance the resilience of ash trees.
Stay informed about the geographical distribution of EAB through maps tracking its presence. Understanding the areas affected can guide proactive measures and help prevent the spread of this invasive species.
Knowing where the EAB originated is essential for understanding its introduction to new regions. The beetle is native to Asia and likely arrived in the United States through international trade. Tracking its spread provides valuable insights for managing and mitigating its impact.
Colorado, including the Denver Metro area, has witnessed the invasion of EAB. Being aware of local infestations, understanding treatment costs, and collaborating with professionals is crucial for effective management.
Examining the transformation of ash trees before and after EAB damage showcases the severity of infestations. Utilizing visual aids, such as damage maps, illustrates the impact and emphasizes the importance of proactive measures.
Distinguishing between EAB and similar-looking beetles is essential for accurate identification and treatment.
Do you live in the Denver Metro area? Do you have an ash tree on your property? The EAB has been detected most recently in the Littleton area and continues to spread. Contact the team of Plant Health Care professionals at Splintered Forest to create a maintenance plan to protect your landscape today! Give us a call at 303-819-9840 extension 1 or visit us online to submit your request for a free estimate.
Schedule Now at Save My Ash.
