Here are some things to be aware of in the landscape for 2009

1. The December ice storm caused quite a bit of damage. Keep watch for broken limbs and damage. We can easily fix any damage that has occurred to make your trees safe and attractive again.

2. Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (HWA) - I talked about this insect last year and have spotted it in Hampton this year. This insect can kill Hemlock trees in 3-6 years. It has decimated Hemlocks from Massachusetts to Virginia. I have noticed it in Exeter, North Hampton, and Portsmouth NH. It is a white, cottony-looking insect found on the underside of needles. Fortunately, there are some easy control methods that can be used. If you suspect HWA on your hemlocks, please call to discuss treatment. For more information on these pests, go to http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/hwa/.

3. Asian Longhorn Beetle has been discovered in Worcester. This insect is very damaging. There are no known controls other than eradication. For more information on these pests, go to http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/alb/.

Services to Consider for 2009

From removals to ornamental pruning, cabling to fertilizing, Seacoast Tree Care continues to offer a full range of tree care services. Below are some services to consider this coming year:

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) with Arborguard -- Arborguard is our new plant healthcare program that includes regular visits, targeted sprays, and the introduction of beneficial insects to control insects and disease on you valuable landscape plants. We had good success with this program in 2008. For 2009 we added one visit mid summer to deal with Japanese Beetle. While similar type programs are offered by other companies, our program offers a more customized, thorough approach, developed with our college educated certified arborists. We know what plants are on your property, what insects feed on them, and the correct time to spray for them, allowing us to use the safest products available. Be wary of programs that claim to solve all your landscape programs in three to four visits. We do not use broad-spectrum insecticides, and offer a customized approach for your particular landscape.

Planting -- We are starting to do more replacement planting upon request. With a certified arborist on site, you can be assured that your plants will be installed properly and that post planting needs will be addressed.

Anti-desiccants -- We have seen minimal winter burn on plants that we have treated. If you have crucial evergreens that you are concerned about, a new evergreen planting that you want to protect this winter, or your landscape is particularly windy and harsh, call us to schedule a series of sprays this winter to protect you plants.

In closing-We had a great year last year and enjoyed working with you, our valued clients. Please do not hesitate to call us with your questions. We'd love to take a walk in the garden with you.

We look forward to working with you and your plants this season!

Sincerely,

    Daniel J. Mello
    Seacoast Tree Care, LLC
    Certified Arborist