A sad loss

Technically this black oak isn't a loss. However, the limb you see in the picture is a third of the tree's total foliage. That is a pretty big stress on this tree. The wound on the trunk where the branch broke off is also very large and a prime area for further decay to occur. So while the mess is all cleaned up for now, come winter the rest of the tree will come down.

Fawn on the Farm

A small population of white-tailed deer call Arington Tree Farm home. This little guy, only 1-2 months old, has been spotted around the farm drinking from the ponds and trying to keep cool in the shade!

Willows - Before & After

Did you know that willow trees are actually an invasive species? Here at Arington Tree Farm, they grow in abundance on the flatland near Mud Creek.

This past week, Arik and I have been using hand saws to trim them back from a trail they were threatening to take over. Cutting back the willows also means the young oaks will have more sunlight and nutrients to keep growing.

Check out our progress!

After 

Before

Learn more about willows here.