Trees are amazing. They improve air quality by filtering the air we breathe as they take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen (which, by the way, helps stop global warming). Trees offer shade to cool our homes in the summer and block harsh winds in the winter. They add beauty to our landscapes, provide food and shelter for wildlife and supply us with fruits and nuts.
Even dead trees are valuable. According to a PSU newsletter article, dead and deteriorating trees "release nutrients, prevent erosion, store moisture, protect seedlings and supply food and shelter for wildlife. "
Need more of a reason to plant a tree? The Union of Concerned Scientists’ latest report states, “The climate of Pennsylvania is changing. Records show that spring is arriving earlier, summers are growing hotter, and winters are becoming warmer and less snowy. New state-of-the-art research shows that if global warming emissions continue to grow unabated, Pennsylvania can expect dramatic changes in climate over the course of this century.”
And how about this reason? "The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to ten room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day."—U.S. Department of Agriculture
Let’s plant trees! Here’s a special invitation from Delaware County Master Gardeners: Please join us for our free Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, April 26 at Smedley Park. We’ll be teaching kids (and adults) all about trees and how to plant them. No reservation is required--just show up. For information, contact Elsie Mueller at 610-626-7210 or email.
Do you have a gardening question? In Delaware County, call our Master Gardeners hortline at 610-690-2671 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 AM-12 NOON.
UPCOMING MASTER GARDENERS EVENTS
April 12, 2008
Peonies
Explore gardening with peonies. Join Eleanor Tickner, owner of A Peony Garden for a discussion about the unabashed "Queens of the Garden." Cost: $10
April 26, 2008
Arbor Day Celebration
Join us at Smedley Park for an afternoon of educational activities for children that are designed to stimulate interest in trees and the environment. We'll provide hands-on experience in planting trees. Contact Elsie Mueller at 610-626-7210 or email for more information.
Registration required for all events except Arbor Day. Please call 610-690-2655 for more information or visit our website
