Weekly News, 04.26.22
Hello gardening friends,
With Arbor Day this Friday, I’m thinking about trees with thanks this week. It was a Horticulture class at CCAC called “Woody Plant Identification” by Joann Hall that really opened me and Russ’ eyes to trees. For years I didn’t always notice or admire the huge catalpa tree next to Bob and Suzi’s house, until I learned more and my appreciation grew. Pictured below is our daughter Hope in 2017 at four years old posing with the tree in bloom. Unfortunately, a few years ago the tree was struck by lightning. We’ve had to prune the top half off and the bottom has survived, but is not doing well.
Trees represent strength and perseverance. Some trees survive amazing odds, like this ‘Tree of Life’ in Washington that has attracted a lot of attention over the years. Right here in Canonsburg we have the biggest tree in Washington County, estimated to be over 200 years old.
Learn more about the power of trees from the Arbor Day Foundation
Here’s the scoop this week:
- frost advisory! Watch the forecast tonight and tomorrow night. If they are calling for temps below 40 degrees, protect your tender plants with old sheets or towels, and bring containers inside for the night.
- this week we are expecting several more deliveries of trees and shrubs. I say “expecting” because the timing of deliveries has been unpredictable. One of the deliveries are of the unique evergreens that we bring in from the West coast. This is a one –time per year order, as are some of the other shrubs and trees. Shop early for the best selection and if you have your heart set on something specific. If you don’t find what you need, we can put your name on a “wish list” for spring 2023.
- also due to arrive are the mandevillea and bougainvillea topiary trees. I planted a mandevillea topiary in the center of a large pot with other annuals around it for several years, and they provide great flower power all season.
- in honor of Mother’s Day and the Moms everywhere who are working hard to raise the next generation, whether they are their biological children or not, we’re doing a collection drive for the Foster Love Project starting Wednesday, April 27 through Sunday, May 15. Please bring your *NEW* donations of twin bedding, pajamas, or toys/stuffed animals. For every item donated, we will donate $1, up to $500. Please note—Foster Love can only take used donations on a very limited basis. Their most needed used items would be single or double strollers and baby bouncers/walkers/bathtubs. Please email center@fosterloveproject.org to ask if they have the capacity for specific items.
- we’ll be at the Garden & Landscape Symposium and Marketplace this Saturday. The event features three great speakers and a vendors from 9-3pm.
- tickets are now available for our two Fields to Fork wine dinners this summer. Guest Chef Tyler England from DiAnoia’s has created two great menus for July 16 and September 17.
Whether it’s to help you find the perfect tree for your yard, to teach you how to grow your own food at home, or to help you find the perfect Mother’s Day gift, we are here for you. Wishing you the strength and perseverance of the trees.
Enjoy the Beauty,
