Pests are a common problem among home and property owners in Nashville — raccoons, mosquitoes and mice to name a few. But one additional pest to add to the list is the Asian Wooly Hackberry Aphid. Originally found in California, the pesky creatures have since made their way into Middle Tennessee for the hackberry and sugarberry trees.
What is the big deal? There isn’t a huge risk to the trees by having the furry, white aphids roam, but they do secrete droplets of honeydew, which fall on leaves and anything underneath, such as porches, decks, cars, lawns or playground equipment. The main problem occurs when the secretions form black mold that is really hard to clean. The mold is also a hazard, slippery substance for Nashvillians, especially when it is wet or in the shade.
What can you do about it? Inspect your trees and call your tree service provider immediately if you find a problem or have a question. There is an array of management issues that can be done for the Hackberry Aphids, but it is always best to leave it up to the professionals. Book an appointment with the Parke Company sooner than later (late winter/early spring) to get rid of the infestation and clean up your property before people begin to spend more time outside.
Getting rid of the Asian Wooly Hackberry Aphid is not just for aesthetic purposes. (Although that might be enough reason for many!) Yes, the mold is ugly to look at, but it is also very dangerous for you and your family. If you spot these critters or the mold around your yard, don’t hesitate to call your tree service, the Parke Company. It’s important to schedule service for this issue by the end of winter or early spring. The Parke Company predicts the problem to much worse this year, because 2013 was a “wet” year. Serving areas all over Middle Tennessee, including Madison, Green Hills, Franklin and Brentwood, the Parke Company has got you covered this upcoming season. Call them to schedule at (615) 350-6033.
Nashville is a great city to enjoy the sunny weather and all it has to offer – from walks down Broadway to hikes through Percy Warner Park. But as the winter and cold air looms over the Middle Tennessee, trees lose their leaves and people bundle next to fireplaces. But even with snow-covered landscapes, there are so many things people can enjoy doing outside. Just think outside the box!
It is pretty obvious the moment you step outside — it’s cold in Nashville. And not just the “oh, maybe I should’ve worn a jacket,” cold, but the “oh, maybe I should’ve worn a parka, gloves and hat” cold. So how does your landscape stay safe through these freezing temperatures? There’s a big list of things to check off in order to protect your landscape, trees and home from the cold temps. The checklist includes:
After Christmas and into the slow, winter months of January and February, the short days and cold weather can often bring a sense of melancholy to Nashvillians. But as you begin taking down all your tinsel and ribbons, be sure to use those months to your advantage and leave the gloom behind.
The Parke Company has an array of services available for the Nashville area and Middle Tennessee. Why not take advantage of these services now so you won’t have to worry about it later? These services include (but not limited to):