Halloween Lore as It Relates to Trees and Plants

As Halloween is right around the corner I thought it would be fun to bring some of it's tree/plant related history to the front. Many of us have Halloween traditions which have included trick or treating, pumpkin carving and putting up decorations in our trees and yards. But were you aware that most of these traditions are based in history dating back to the Romans and Celtics and the festivals of Samhain and Pamona which celebrated the harvest and Summer's end. Enjoy the below article which delves into much greater detail on the history of Halloween and the influence of trees.

http://www.learn2grow.com/gardeningguides/seasonalgardening/holiday/HalloweenPlantsLore.aspx

Another Example of Taking Extreme Measures to Preserve A Tree

Preservation of mature tree canopy is of utmost importance when developing a property site, as the elder statesmen add character and provide extensive environmental benefits. However, in some instances it is not feasible to preserve existing large canopy trees and tree relocation is an excellent alternative. Relocations of large "Specimen" type trees have always fascinated me. The most important factor is preserving as much of the root zone area as possible which can lead to a very heavy tree and complications with relocation logistics. In the below story a 200 year old green buttonwood tree weighing in excess of 48,000 lbs. is being relocated from private property to a City Park. This involves use of a heavy duty crane, significant root pruning and transportation by barge. A web link to the original article is included below:

Photograph Used Courtesy of Andres Leiva/Daily News

http://www.palmbeachdailynews.com/news/local/mighty-crane-needed-move-giant-tree-bradley-park-palm-beach/UcGoMJNV1cw68haQ75g4UP/

Can Trees Actually Protect Your Home from Hurricanes?

Trees have many benefits including providing oxygen, habitat for wildlife, shade, cooler temperatures etc.. But did you know that trees also can protect you and your property from storms and hurricanes? Groups of trees properly planted together can provide a wind break, and buffer each other from the effects of high winds. During a hurricane this can mean the difference from an intact home to one that loses its roof and sustains significant wind related damage. Trees can also prevent soil erosion from sudden rain events and floods, as their root systems help stabilize the soil profile. While we continue to recover from the effects of this year's hurricane events, keep in mind all the benefits trees provide. I have included some additional links with further details on how trees can provide protection from storm events below.

http://www.bigblogofgardening.com/how-trees-protect-your-home-by-slowing-wind-speed-soil-erosion-and-water-runoff/
https://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1240

Stormwise South Florida Landscapes

http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/planting-and-establishing-trees.html