‘Keystone’ plants/ animals or insects are living organisms that have a big impact on an ecosystem’s health and vitality. The ‘Keystone’ designation means that whatever the organism, it generates a network of beneficial relationships. Keystone plants and or animals also can provide critical sources of food and shelter for a large number of species.
When I was a camper in Vermont in the mid 70’s , there was an invitation each summer from our stern camp director to go ‘burd’ watching and to find the prized Scarlett Tanager she knew lived in the surrounding forest. It was the one event Judy offered all summer. In our last year as campers my tent mates and I decided it may be fun to catch her in action with her favorite hobby. We signed up.
As you walk your garden on these 75 degree days, you might be overwhelmed, as I am, to see the amount of weeds popping up. The tricky question is, “Which plant is a weed?” I thought I would give you ‘easy to see’ tasks, or chores, you can do while you wait for your yard service, significant other or unlucky friend to come help you.
When I was a little girl living in Chicago with my family in the early 60’s, I remember my mother telling me to follow her, “We’re going to cut some forsythia and force it.”
I have waited since last Spring to cut back the roots on my girdled maple trees. With winter, the trees are finally dormant. When my good friend and “tree” man checked them out. He said the girdled roots on my tree supported the trees in a big way. If I cut the supporting roots that are girdling the tree, the whole tree may fall over!