Callery Pear Eradication? Now is a great time to tag for removal!!

The impact of the sheer numbers of flowering pear can go unnoticed. But not this time of year. As one of the first flowering trees of the season, now is a great time to tag them for later removal. The key is to know what trees should be removed before they set fruit.  So, you have time.   But NOW is the time to tag trees as they come into flower.  They are so easy to identify.

Interestingly, think about all of the  housing developments that might have used   used pears extensively in home landscapes or as a street tree and how birds loved to help those disperse those seeds.

They looked beautiful but didn’t behave as a sterile tree as advertised. But they are the tree that keeps on giving, or invading.

Did you know it is illegal to buy or sell Ornamental Flowering Pear Trees in Ohio as of January 7th, 2023?  The suggestion is to get out and tag the flowering trees now. Then, sometime before fruit is set, go out and remove the trees. A great fact sheet on invasive plant removal is attached:

https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/f-65

Although the fact sheet is written to control Tree of Heaven, some of the same techniques can be employed.    In addition, Ohio Department of Natural Resources has a document regarding Callery Pear:  https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/plants-trees/invasive-plants/callery-pear

Also, a general fact sheet on Controlling Undesirable Trees, Shrubs, and Vines in Your Woodland can be found here: https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/sites/woodlands/files/d6/files/pubfiles/0045.pdf

The take home message is if you want to reduce Callery Pear in your landscape or woodlot, now’s the time to tag!

Source: Buckeye Yard and Garden Line    Thomas DeHaas, author

Fruit Tree Pruning Class Planned – April 5

Join OSU Extension in Fairfield County for a hands-on Fruit Tree Pruning workshop with Ralph Hugus at Hugus Fruit Farm on Friday, April 5, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.    The workshop will involve walking thru the orchard and discussing growing and pruning techniques for apple and peach trees.  Pruning shears will be provided for demonstration use.  Participants will be able to learn pruning techniques and get all their questions related to fruit tree growing and pruning answered.  The majority of the Workshop will be held outdoors, please dress for the weather.  The cost if this workshop is FREE.  For details call OSU Extension in Fairfield County or go.osu.edu/fcpruning by April 3 so we can have plenty of handouts available for the class.

Used Motor Oil Wanted at the Recycling Center

Did you know that Lancaster-Fairfield Community Action’s Recycling Center is heated by using used motor oil? The following can be accepted into the program; Diesel, Kerosene, Home Heating Oil (#2), Hydraulic Fluid, and Gear Oil (up to 50 weight). Liquids need to be clear of any debris and water. Please no brake fluid, antifreeze, gasoline, water or chlorine. Items can be dropped off at the Recycling Center’s Drive Thru Lane Monday-Friday from 9:00am-2:00pm. Questions? Call 740-687-1295.

Be sure to listen into this  88.9FM WLRY interview with Keri Murphy of the Recycling Center to learn more about the need for used motor oil and the upcoming tire recycling event too!! 240201_003

 

 

 

The Family Table – Not Just for Holidays!!

As we enjoy some extra family time together around the table over this  holiday season, it is not just benefiting our taste buds. Family mealtime is something that is a good practice all year long. Eating together helps children grow and develop, improves family relationships, and ensures that all participants eat healthier diets, higher in key foods and nutrients.

Have improved language development

Do better in school

Are less likely to use drugs, alcohol or tobacco

Have a better body image

Show less tendency for violence and risky behaviors

As early as 1943, researchers noted the sociological and cultural benefits of the family table. Eating together is good Continue reading

Winter holiday pet safety

December abounds with holiday celebrations, and nothing can spoil good cheer like an emergency trip to the veterinary clinic. These tips can help keep your winter holiday season from becoming not-so-happy—for your pet and for you.

If you want to share holiday treats with your pets, make or buy treats formulated just for them. The following people foods are especially dangerous for pets:

Chocolate is an essential part of holidays for many people, but it is toxic to dogs and cats. It’s safest to consider all chocolate off limits for pets, even though the harm it can cause varies based on the type of chocolate, the size of your pet, and the amount eaten.

Other sweets and baked goods also should be kept out of reach. Not only are they often too rich for pets; Continue reading

Shop Local, Shop Small..Shop Ohio Proud!!

Looking for a fun unique gift for family and friends..Check out Snacks with a Twist in Pickerington-An OHIO PROUD Partner!!  Created in 1993, Ohio Proud is the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s marketing program that identifies and promotes food and agriculture that are made in Ohio and grown in Ohio. Agriculture is Ohio’s number one industry, contributing more than $105 billion to the state’s economy.  For more details on the Sweet Treats at Snacks with a Twist, be sure to listen into the 88.9FM Saturday Morning Farm Page Interview with owner, Nay Dismore!   Be sure to check out  Snacks with a Twist by Nay’s Creative Ways  located at  8561 Refugee Rd, Pickerington, OH 43147  Phone 614-332-3534

Listen into the 88.9FM Saturday Morning Farm Page interview with Nay Dismore below!!

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