Bees and Avocado Trees: The Power of Pollinators
Thanks to their delicious taste, creamy texture and the array of health benefits they provide, avocados have exploded in popularity over the last few decades. Formerly considered a delicacy for only the wealthiest among us, avocados are now a staple component in the diets of many. But unfortunately, avocado farmers are currently facing a number […]
Pests That Threaten Citrus Trees of Southern California
Few places in the world are more hospitable to citrus trees than Southern California. But unfortunately, even in a place with a nearly ideal climate for these fruit-bearing trees, the trees must still survive amid a variety of insects and other pests. In fact, while these pests and parasites threaten the citrus trees growing in […]
Diseases of the California Sycamore Tree
Many of the largest tree species native to California are conifers, but there are a few big broadleaf species that also call the Sunshine State home. The California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is an excellent example, as it not only reaches heights in excess of 80 feet, but it has some of the largest leaves of […]
Asian Citrus Psyllids Threaten Southern California Trees
Thanks to the area’s warm climate and thriving agricultural industry, southern California is especially vulnerable to invasive pests and exotic plant diseases. And while there are several species that local homeowners, property managers and farmers must be aware of, few are quite as troubling as the Asian citrus psyllid and the associated disease that the […]
Five Common Diseases of Avocado Trees
Thanks in part to the current popularity of avocados, many homeowners have begun growing their own avocado trees. This is a great way to keep your kitchen stocked with the delicious and nutritious fruits, but the trees themselves are also quite desirable. They not only exhibit a handsome growth habit, but they also produce dense […]
Know Your Enemy: Six Insects That Attack Avocado Trees
The avocado tree has become one of the most popular tree species grown by residents of southern California. Some grow these trees for their delicious fruit, while others simply appreciate the way they look or the shade they provide. But regardless of your motivation from growing these fruit-bearing trees, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with […]
The Four Best Trees to Plant in or near Your Rain Garden
Rain gardens are attractive landscaping features that can not only improve the aesthetics of most properties, but they provide important environmental benefits too. When properly designed, rain gardens capture and contain a relatively large quantity of rainwater, which will then percolate into the soil over the next few days. This helps to prevent some of […]
Four Ornamental Trees That Won’t Create Litter Problems
Thanks to the myriad resources available to modern homeowners and property managers, many people conduct a lot of research on the trees they intend to install. They look up things like the tree’s water requirements, sun-exposure preferences and susceptibility to common pathogens and illnesses. This is obviously a good idea, and it’ll help you avoid […]
Five Deer-Resistant Trees for Southern California Properties
Deer are certainly lovely animals, and most people enjoy getting a glimpse of these beautiful creatures sauntering through their yard. Unless that is, the deer are destroying the plants and trees you’ve gone to the trouble and expense of installing on your property. In such cases, deer can represent quite a problem. Short of building […]
Summer Tree Care: Four Tips for Protecting Your Trees
Tree-care is a year-round responsibility, but it is important to note that your trees need different things during different times of the year. And while one could argue that trees growing in southern California experience summer-like conditions on a more-or-less constant basis, there are a few special things you’ll want to do to prepare for […]