Ever wonder how old a tree is? There are a couple easy ways to estimate the age of a tree. Of course, these methods provide general estimates, which are all most nature enthusiasts want to know. The tree in the photo above is an excellent example of a large old Black Walnut tree. However, I […]
In Virginia, you may loosely equate December with the start of winter and sometimes some snow. Most of us directly equate December with a holiday. I love the holidays! Regardless of why you celebrate a holiday in the winter, I believe it is important to celebrate it with family and friends. Although I celebrate for […]
Storm damage always provides some interesting photos. This photo is an amazing example of the strength and flexibility of wood and the typical “widow maker”. There is a considerable amount of tension and torc on the remainder of the tree, and it creates quite a dangerous situation. Many other types of trees would crack in […]
Deadwood is usually a natural process. Trees get injured or stressed and limbs become susceptible to pests or they rot. Lightning strikes cause parts of the tree to die too. Read below to find out when and why deadwood removal is appropriate. Reason #1 We remove deadwood to keep an area safe. Falling dead branches […]
The subject of pine cones, line everything else that I write about, is not as simple as it seems. Pine cones are the reproductive structures of conifer plants. Cedars, firs, cypresses, redwoods, and pine trees are all conifers or “cone bearing”. Pine cones come in all shapes and sizes, but their function is always the […]
Bramble Bushes Bramble bushes are any thorny, prickly, shrub type bush. The generic name includes ornamental bushes such as roses, unwanted undergrowth, blackberries, raspberries, and dewberries. Subfamily – Rosoideae Family – Rosaceae Kingdom – Plantae Order – Rosales Scientific name – Rubus Higher classification – Rose family