Irwin, PA headlines

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.

Now is the time to address tree health issues that are commonplace this time of year. Problems including browning on evergreen needles, damage to twigs and branches, cracks or splits in the bark and root issues should be identified in early spring, before serious damage occurs.

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.

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 Irwin, PA 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.

Given the likelihood of encountering ticks, it is important to know that controlling tick populations in your landscape is possible. The first step is assessing your landscape for common habitats like wooded areas, leaf litter and ornamental beds. Based on the assessment, treatments can specifically target at-risk areas.

Spring is when many sap-sucking pests become active, including types of scales, aphids and mites. These tiny insects can infest virtually any type of tree or shrub. Now is the best time to identify and treat for damaging populations.

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.

Summer storms often cause branches or entire trees to fall. Preventative care can help you maintain your landscape while mitigating the possibility of unanticipated costs.