Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison, Putnam County, NY —famous for its views of the Hudson River, restored Neoclassical mansion, renowned design collection, exhibitions, and community programs — has launched a meadow restoration project with horticulturalist and designer Larry Weaner and landscape architecture firm Reed Hilderbrand. [Read more…] about Boscobel Launches Meadow Restoration Project
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John D. Rockefeller: Tree Farmer Extraordinaire
When the name John D. Rockefeller Sr. captures someone’s attention the mind usually pictures the famous – or infamous depending on one’s view of 19th century capitalism – late oil baron and once world’s richest man.
Someone more versed on his life might recall Rockefeller’s love for the game of golf. However, John D. was also a passionate and prolific tree farmer and landscaper on his 3,000 acre Kykuit estate bordering the Hudson River near Pocantico Hills, in the Westchester County town of Mount Pleasant, NY. [Read more…] about John D. Rockefeller: Tree Farmer Extraordinaire
American Yew: A Native Evergreen
For thousands of years, people have decorated their homes with evergreen boughs, a symbol of eternal life, during the darkest time of the year – around the winter solstice and Christmas.
In addition to common species such as spruce and fir, I’ve noticed another evergreen in my neighborhood: a low, sprawling shrub growing on the slope of the ravine above a stream. [Read more…] about American Yew: A Native Evergreen
Check for Spotted Lanternflies
Now is a great time to check for spotted lanternflies (SLF). You may find some adult lanternflies lingering until the first hard frost, as well as their freshly laid egg masses that will overwinter and bring next year’s generation of lanternflies. [Read more…] about Check for Spotted Lanternflies
Canandaigua Lake Water Quality Plan Finalized
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of State (DOS) have announced the joint agency approval of the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Nine Element Plan for Enhanced Phosphorus Management, a plan to advance efforts to restore and protect the water quality of Canandaigua Lake and its watershed. [Read more…] about Canandaigua Lake Water Quality Plan Finalized
Help Collect Seeds for the State’s Saratoga Nursery
The New York State operated Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery produces more than 1.5 million seedlings annually, maintains more than 200 acres for seed production, and has orchards located across the state.
The Nursery is currently growing more than 6 million seedlings of over 50 different species, but it needs your help. [Read more…] about Help Collect Seeds for the State’s Saratoga Nursery
Road Tire Pollution Shown to Affect Salmon, Rainbow and Brook Trout
“When contemplating the emissions from road vehicles, our first thought is often about the various gases coming out of the tailpipe,” Lewin Day writes for The Drive. However, new research shows that we should be more concerned with the harmful particles that are shed from tires and brakes.” [Read more…] about Road Tire Pollution Shown to Affect Salmon, Rainbow and Brook Trout
Buttonbush Is a Boon for Wildlife
As autumn begins and insect populations dwindle, many waterfowl species rely increasingly on seeds as a food source. Common buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), with its spherical bouquets of seeds now ripening, provides food for an array of ducks, geese, and other wetland denizens. [Read more…] about Buttonbush Is a Boon for Wildlife
The Inevitable First Frost
It is inevitable. Regardless of how nice the summer has been, a time comes in September when the first frost of the season coats every exposed surface with a layer of ice crystals and brings about the official end of the growing season. [Read more…] about The Inevitable First Frost
4-H Clubs & Victory Gardens During World War Two
First promoted during World War One, War Gardens or Victory Gardens provided American citizens an opportunity to assist with the war effort. Americans were encouraged to produce their own food by planting vegetable gardens in their backyards, churchyards, city parks, and playgrounds.
According to the 1919 pamphlet War Gardening and Home Storage of Vegetables, the War Gardens of America produced food “which helped establish the balance of power between starvation and abundance” in Europe during the final two years of the war. [Read more…] about 4-H Clubs & Victory Gardens During World War Two