When do ticks start to become active? Earlier than you’d think! On Long Island, ticks don’t just show up in summer. They often become active in March, as soon as temperatures regularly rise above 40°F. Mild winters, damp leaf litter, and plenty of wildlife mean blacklegged (deer) ticks and other species can start questing for… Read more »
February is when gardeners quietly set the stage for spring. Even in cold climates, there’s plenty to do. First, plan. Review last year’s wins and losses, sketch your beds and containers, and plan a simple crop rotation for vegetables. Next, order what you need. Take stock of old seeds, then order the vegetables, herbs, and… Read more »
Winter storms routinely dump ice and snow on trees and branches. Falling branches and trees can destroy cars and homes and knock out power. If a particularly bad storm hits, there can be a long wait for licensed tree service companies to address the damage. Many Long Island tree service professionals agree that prevention is… Read more »
Fall leaves are more than just a chore waiting to be raked—they’re nature’s free resource; ripe for creativity, sustainability, and fun. Here are some delightful alternatives to raking your leaves into lifeless piles. 1. Make Leaf Mulch or Compost Shred leaves and spread them over your garden beds as mulch. This naturally fertilizes your soil… Read more »
If your shrubs and trees suffered during spring and summer—due to pests, diseases like fungal infections, or burrowing insects that damaged fruit trees and other garden plants—consider using dormant winter spray treatments. ‘Dormant spray’ broadly refers to applications like horticultural oil, which smothers overwintering insects such as aphids, mites, and scale, along with their eggs…. Read more »
If you live in USDA Zone 7 (Long Island is both 7a and 7b, depending on how far east you are), October is the perfect time to plant a wide variety of spring-flowering bulbs. Cooler temperatures and moist soil create ideal conditions for these bulbs to establish strong roots before winter sets in. Here’s a… Read more »
Hurricane season can be a challenging time for gardeners and plant lovers. The strong winds and heavy rains can wreak havoc on your beloved plants. However, with some preparation, you can help safeguard them against the storm’s fury. Here are some practical tips to protect your plants during a hurricane: 1. Bring Potted Plants Indoors… Read more »
The spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest native to Southeast Asia, has become a significant concern on Long Island in recent years. This striking insect is easily recognizable due to its gray wings adorned with black spots and a vibrant red underbelly. It primarily feeds on the sap of various trees, with a particular preference for… Read more »
As summer arrives, so do mosquitoes, bringing the risk of diseases like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). While the overall threat is low, Long Island residents need to be cautious, especially those who are pregnant, young, or immunocompromised. First, eliminate standing water around your home. Remove stagnant water from birdbaths, flower pots, and… Read more »
Is your lawn looking a bit patchy? Don’t worry! Here are some practical tips to help you revive that grass and get it looking great again! Identify the Problem First things first! Let’s figure out why your grass is patchy. Common reasons include: Not Enough Sunlight: Grass needs 6–8 hours a day Poor Soil Quality:… Read more »