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Showing posts from June, 2025

Top 5 Arborvitae (Thuja) Trees Add to Your New Jersey Landscape

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  When choosing an arborvitae or  thuja  variety, it is important to know the purpose or reasoning for the addition to your landscape. Will it be used as a privacy fence? Are you looking to  add some color  and shape to your design? Do you enjoy trimming your plants every season or are you looking for low maintenance? While there are many types of arborvitaes available in today’s market, below are some of the most popular arbs used in landscape design. ‘Techny’ Arborvitae or  Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’ –  This slow growing arb is a great choice for a privacy fence or hedge. Its dense branches help in noise reduction and keep nosey neighbors from peering into your backyard during your weekend cook outs. The ‘Techny’ grows to an average of 15ft tall and width of 8ft .  ‘Techny’  does best in full sun to part shade and will tolerate clay soil. ‘Pyramidalis’ Arborvitae or  Thuja occidentalis ‘Pyramidalis’ –  If you are looking for a sh...

How to Care for Your Japanese Maple Tree: The Star of the Yard

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  null There’s something magical about a Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum). It’s sculptural and dramatic without being too “showy”. Lacy leaves, a graceful form and the ability to command attention are all reasons why the Japanese Maple is worthy of a place of honor in your yard. Whether you choose a dwarf Japanese Maple or opt for a slow-growing 15 to 30-foot variety, you’ll never regret the investment in your landscape! Choose from yellow-green, purple, red, bronze, or variegated leaves. Rest assured that your Japanese Maple is sure to turn heads and create an aura of quiet dignity in your yard. Here’s how to care for your Japanese Maple tree, the quiet star of the yard: Planting Your Japanese Maple Because Japanese Maples are somewhat sensitive to extreme heat, planting in the summertime here in the Northeast is not the best idea. You can plant safely throughout the spring or wait until early fall. (Just don’t plant too late into the fall since you don’t want your new sapling ...

Armillaria, a Deadly Tree Fungus: What You Should Know

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  Armillaria, a deadly tree fungus, has become a threat to many of New Jersey’s beloved trees, including New Jersey’s state tree, the majestic Northern Red Oak. Also called root rot or shoestring root rot, this fungus poses a threat to the state’s many beloved parks, recreation areas, and forest lands, especially in North Jersey and the west side of the state along the Delaware River. Armillaria is found in urban and suburban areas of the state as well, threatening so many of our well-loved shade trees and conifers. Like all living things, trees need to be cared for and protected against  harmful diseases  and environmental threats, such as storm damage, parasites, and funguses like Armillaria. Here are the key facts and what you should know about this harmful fungus. What Is Armillaria? Armillaria is a parasitic, wood-rotting fungus, from a genus of over 30 species of fungi. It’s usually found in forests of trees made up of oaks, hickories, maples, and mixed conifers. It...

Tree Removal Before Pool Construction

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  The trees surrounding your home are a key part of your overall landscaping. Not only do they provide shade and purify the air, but trees also add to the beauty of your home. It’s critical to consider your trees when making construction decisions. Specifically, when installing a pool in your yard, the surrounding trees should certainly be part of the construction plan. Before you begin enhancing your property, here are some common questions to consider about  tree removal  before pool construction. How do I know which trees to remove? While you may want to keep all your yard’s trees, some trees may need to be removed before pool construction. Since tree removal is often a last resort, it’s important to make an informed choice. Many professionals will recommend keeping all tree bases at least 15 feet from the edge of your pool. Otherwise, simple protective measures can maintain tree health and minimize risk of damage. How can I protect my lawn’s trees? For the trees that ...