A Tree to Try–Chinese Pistache

Chinese Pistache, Pistacia chinensis Okay, since you’re all wondering… yes, this is technically a pistachio tree but no, it isn’t the pistachio tree. Those delectable green nuts are actually the seeds of Pistacia vera, a close relative. Nonetheless, the Chinese pistache stands on its own merits as a landscape specimen. For starters, this is yet …

Timely Tree Tips – Symptoms of Drought Stress

Drought is a very real threat to plants in Washington, even on the ‘wet’ side of the mountains. Here are some classic symptoms to be on the lookout for, in order from slight to more severe: Leaves are pale, dusky or yellowish in color. Water is a key ingredient in photosynthesis. If water is limiting …

Timely Tree Tips — Much ado about Mulching

Mulch serves many important functions. Shredded wood chips and other coarse-textured, biodegradable mulches help to build and protect soil, buffer drought conditions, and support healthy tree growth. Mulch: Retains soil moisture Moderates soil temperatures Reduces competition from weeds and grass Minimizes soil compaction Prevents erosion Returns nutrients to the soil as mulches break down slowly …

Timely Tree Tips–Trees for Central Washington

Washington is well known for its verdant forestlands; however, the center of our state is very different. The coulees, shrub-steppes and other high desert landscapes of central Washington are tough environments for trees. This leaves cities asking “what can I plant here?” For purposes of this article, we are defining central Washington as Douglas, Lincoln, …

Timely Tree Tips — Perils of Early Spring Pruning

Spring is just around the corner, and with that comes the emergence of fresh green leaves and the bright blooms of flowering trees and shrubs. In early spring--that is to say RIGHT NOW--trees are tapping energy reserves from the previous growing season to activate buds throughout the tree canopy. As the tree streams sap (energy) …

Timely Tree Tips – Lights on Trees?

There is something about a lighted tree that warms the heart and soul. As many of us will adorn the trees in our yards with festive lighting this season, many cities and towns will follow suit by lighting trees downtown or in city parks. Lights on trees can be lovely, but lighting can also create …

Timely Tree Tips – Tree Crown Shape

As children, we learn that square pegs don’t fit in round holes and the same principle applies to selecting trees. Trees have a wide variety of canopy shapes and sizes; however, there are some general crown shapes we can identify. Most conifer trees, for example, are described as having a pyramidal shape—think Christmas trees! Pin …