Pond Plans

I generously received a pond form a couple of years ago from a fellow native plant enthusiast who had decided that she would prefer a larger pond. This was exactly what I was looking for; the right shape, size and style. Unfortunately, it would require a great deal of digging, which meant I needed not only the time to dedicate to this project, but also the physical ability to accomplish the task in a timely manner once started.

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Well, the time has finally arrived. The hole was dug between breaks in the clouds...could it possibly rain anymore! It is in the ground though it still requires the addition more soil around the lower side (it was placed on a slope), and then I can get the pump and filter in place and fill it with water. Needless to say, I'm excited, but during the process I have realized something...

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I do not know a thing about native plants for ponds! So there is definitely some research to be done.

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In the meantime, if anyone has some good suggestions for plants native to SE PA that would do well in a small pond (approx. 250 gallons) and could share some resources for purchasing these plants, it would most appreciated! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Lowe's Is Making Progress

Who knew that Lowe's was now advertising "Native Plant" varieties? (Look for the large native plant tag hanging from each pot) Not to mention providing some information on natives vs. invasives on their internet Library...

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http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=LawnGarden/PlantsGoneBad.html

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It's a start. We need to keep requesting native plant selections from our local garden centers. When they receive enough requests, they will listen!!!

GreenSpace: Roll out the barrels to collect rain

Does it excite you, even in the slightest, to stumble across articles pertaining to environmental concerns? Thank you Bridgette for taking the time to forward the link to this article so that we could share it with other members!

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/columnists/sandy_bauers/20090504_GreenSpace__Roll_out_the_barrels_to_collect_rain.html?nlid=2377257

Tree Tenders Training

Tree Tenders Training

Sign up now!
(Student’s, staff, faculty, Borough & Township residents)
Learn to plant & care for trees
9 hours of free training

April 7, 14, 21 (6-9PM)
113 Boucher Hall
Sponsored by the PA Horticulture Society and WCU
To register http://www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org
& choose “sign up for Free Tree Tenders Training
Contact: Gerry Hertel; 610-436-2722; ghertel@wcupa.edu
(WCU sponsors: Grounds; Environmental Council; Gordon Natural Area)

The Mighty Oak

I can usually identify the white oaks from the black oaks, but sometimes it gets a little more difficult beyond that! My guess for this tree, Pin Oak (Quercus palustris).

Oak trees are definitely one of my favorites. Not only is the mature tree simply one of the most stately, it is absolutely one of the most beneficial trees to wildlife; in the northeast US. The acorns provide such a wonderful food source for critters and the caterpillars really love to munch on the leaves.

Have you planted an oak tree lately?