Brewster, NY headlines

Colder temperatures and shorter days serve as a reminder that it’s time for your trees and shrubs to have a winter check-up. Now is the time to uncover issues such as weakly attached branches, dead wood, diseases, pest infestations and other problems before they can cause serious damage in the spring.

With the warmer temperatures of summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 7-10cm layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling autumn fertilisation can also help maintain tree health and vigor.

Now is a critical time of year to prepare your trees and shrubs for the coming summer in the Brewster, NY area. Healthy trees and shrubs are better able to withstand the higher temperatures and weather extremes that summer brings. Proper care in spring can help ensure the health of your landscape plants.

Beech leaf disease, has been spreading rapidly. As implied by the name, the disease attacks beech trees, one of the most commonly found trees in our area. Caused by microscopic worms called nematodes, the first sign of infection are discolored stripes between the veins of impacted leaves. As the disease progresses, the tree will show signs of stunted growth and yellowing leaves.

Foliar diseases including anthracnose, apple scab, rust diseases and powdery mildew will be commonplace in our area this spring. These diseases result in unsightly discoloration, lesions or spots on leaves. Taking action now, before the disease can progress, provides the most effective control.

The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories has broken new ground to protect beech trees from beech leaf disease with novel pest management strategies.

Now is a critical time of year to prepare your trees and shrubs for the coming summer. Healthy trees and shrubs are better able to withstand the higher temperatures and weather extremes that summer brings. Proper care in spring can help ensure the health of your landscape plants.