Bala Cynwyd, PA headlines

Winter is the ideal time to prune many tree species. Removal of dead or diseased branches this time of year can greatly reduce the risk they pose to your home and property. Plus, pruning can improve the overall health and appearance of your trees, getting them in shape for spring.

Bartlett is excited to be helping Penn State map and inventory campus trees as part of the Commonwealth Arboreta Network, an initiative that supports its campuses, faculty and staff in using its living laboratories to improve tree knowledge. The project is made possible by the James and Barbara Ingram Endowment for Penn State Arboreta. Jim Ingram, Bartlett's president and COO, holds an associate's degree from Penn State – Mont Alto and a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University Park.

Now is a critical time of year to prepare your trees and shrubs for the coming summer in the Philadelphia 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.

After winter ends, your trees and shrubs will be working hard to establish spring growth. A soil test in early spring can help determine the precise nutrients needed for that growth, yielding a fuller canopy and vibrant, health foliage.

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

Given the stress from higher temperatures and lack of rainfall comon in summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 3-4" layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling fall fertilization 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. 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.