Summer 2019

Letter from the CEO

April and May are probably our favorite months of the year because we get to celebrate Arbor Day in the various communities we serve. It is a tradition started by my father, Richard Almstead, more than 50 years ago. Over the years, we have been able to develop strong relationships with community organizations, including schools, nature centers, town boards, and garden centers. It has given us the opportunity of connecting with local children, teachers, parents and others to share our knowledge and love of arboriculture. We participated in many significant events this year and gave away over 1,000 tree saplings — take a look at our article in the Almstead Around Town section.

We’ve had a very cool wet spring this year and various diseases received ideal conditions to spread. As I write this, almost every sycamore I’ve seen, unless treated, has anthracnose and most Kwansan cherries have brown rot. These trees should rebound with proper care. Lawn diseases will also be greater in intensity. So, if you do see any of these outbreaks, please contact your local Almstead arborist for a second look and direction of care.

Summer is a good time to decide if you would like to plant trees or shrubs in fall or next spring. Selecting the right tree or plant, planning ahead in sourcing, and planting it correctly are critical decisions that will affect your landscape for decades. Your arborist can recommend your best options based on your desired goals, location and landscape.

I hope you have a wonderful summer!

Sincerely,

Ken Almstead, CEO

International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist NY0335

Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)

Organic Lawn Care Professional