Do Tree Companies Still Work and Remove Trees in the Winter?

If you’re wondering whether tree removal companies still operate during the winter, the answer is a resounding yes! Even when the temperature drops and most of us are huddled indoors, there’s one company that’s hard at work year-round: Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service. We understand that many people may question the feasibility of tree removal in the winter, especially when it’s not an emergency situation. But rest assured, we’re here to meet your needs, no matter the season.

Why Choose Winter for Tree Removal

As you gaze upon your winter landscape, you’re likely compiling a mental checklist of tasks for your yard once spring arrives. Perhaps you’re planning to add new shrubs, cultivate a vegetable garden, or hang vibrant planters. If tree removal is on that list, we have fantastic news for you. You don’t need to wait until the warmer months to enlist the services of a professional tree removal company.

Ideal Conditions for Winter Tree Removal

Winter may not be the most inviting time for outdoor work, but it’s a perfect season for tree removal. At Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service, we stay busy throughout the winter, and here’s why. During this season, trees are in a state of dormancy, which is an optimal time for removal. With the leaves gone, there’s less debris to clean up, and the frozen ground minimizes damage to your yard.

Moreover, winter storms can wreak havoc on trees, requiring immediate attention. A broken tree poses a hazard no matter the season, and even with snow on the ground, it can be removed safely. Preston’s Tree and Landscape Service boasts both the equipment and expertise needed for year-round tree removal.

Get Started Today

Don’t hesitate to schedule a free estimate with us at 585-265-2490. We’re committed to providing tree removal services throughout the year, no matter the weather conditions. Financing options are available for all your projects, ensuring that you can address your tree removal needs promptly and conveniently.

In conclusion, when it comes to tree removal, winter is not a hindrance but an opportunity. Reach out to Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service and experience our year-round dedication to serving your tree removal needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Tree Removal

As experts in tree removal, we understand that you might have some questions about getting this service done during the winter. Here are some common queries and our answers to put your mind at ease:

1. Is it safe to remove trees in the winter?
Absolutely. Winter is a great time for tree removal. With trees in dormancy and the ground frozen, it’s often safer and more efficient to remove trees during this season.

2. Will the cold weather affect the tree removal process?
Our skilled professionals are well-equipped to handle tree removal in cold conditions. We take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and effective removal process, no matter the temperature.

3. Can tree removal cause damage to my yard during the winter?

Winter’s frozen ground minimizes yard damage during tree removal. We take extra care to protect your landscape and minimize any potential impact.

4. What if there’s a winter storm?

Even during a winter storm, if a tree becomes a hazard, we can still safely remove it. Safety is our top priority, and we’re prepared to handle adverse weather conditions.

5. Can I schedule tree removal during any part of the winter season?
Yes, you can schedule tree removal at any time during the winter. We operate year-round to meet your needs, whether it’s early winter or late winter.

6. Is there a difference in cost for winter tree removal?
Our pricing remains competitive year-round. You can expect a fair and transparent estimate for your tree removal, regardless of the season.

7. How do I get started with winter tree removal?
It’s easy to get started. Simply give us a call at 585-265-2490, and we’ll schedule a free estimate at your convenience. We’ll discuss your needs and provide you with a plan tailored to your specific situation.

8. Do you offer financing for tree removal projects?
Yes, we do. Financing options are available to make tree removal more accessible and manageable for all our clients. We want to ensure that you can address your tree removal needs without financial stress.

Tree Removal

Now Is the Time for Tree Removal

Do you have a tree on your property that’s been causing you concern? It might be tempting to postpone its removal, thinking it’ll be fine for now, but there are compelling reasons to be proactive about addressing it, especially if it’s showing signs of disease. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of timely tree removal, the potential risks of simply trimming your tree, the best times for removal, and how to identify when it’s time to say goodbye to a tree.

The Importance of Proactive Tree Removal

Homeowners often underestimate the impact of tree-related damage, but wind and storm damage claims constitute a significant portion of insurance claims. Trees and large limbs falling on homes can lead to substantial expenses and inconvenience. Being proactive about tree removal can prevent you from becoming another statistic in homeownership claims.

The Risks of Trimming vs. Removal

You might be wondering, “Can’t I just trim the tree?” While proper tree trimming is essential for maintaining tree health, it might not be enough to prevent extensive damage during a storm. Making the call to remove a tree is a significant decision and should involve the expertise of a tree professional. Without their guidance, you could be taking a substantial risk.

Preston's Tree Removal

When Is the Best Time for Tree Removal?

The timing for tree removal can vary, but winter is generally a great time to consider it. However, sometimes, acting before the winter storms hit is even better. At Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service, we recommend proactive tree removal, particularly before the large winter storms. Removal is advisable if your tree exhibits any of the following signs:

  • A split tree trunk.
  • A tree that is leaning, diseased, or in poor health (e.g., emerald ash borer infestation).
  • A tree with root damage.
  • A tree that has been twisted from a previous storm.

While some of these trees may have a chance of survival, it’s best to have an experienced professional assess their condition and recommend the most suitable course of action.

Choosing the Right Tree Removal Service

When it comes to tree removal, it’s crucial to select a reputable and insured company specializing in this service. Many landscape companies offer tree removal but might lack the specific insurance coverage needed. At Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service, we are insured for tree removal and equipped with the right tools to handle even the most challenging removals safely.

You might be wondering why you should choose a company with a tree crane. Our specialized equipment significantly reduces property damage during the removal process. We have the capability to take the tree away in large pieces, avoiding poorly executed tree landings. This method allows us to work in small spaces and reduces personal risk, all while completing the job quickly and efficiently.

Call us to schedule a free estimate today at 585-265-2490.

Conclusion

Don’t delay when it comes to tree removal. Being proactive can save you from the hassles and expenses of dealing with tree-related damage. Identifying when a tree needs removal and choosing the right service can make a significant difference in maintaining the safety and aesthetics of your property.

FAQs

1. Is it better to trim my tree or remove it? 
Trimming is essential for tree health, but when a tree poses significant risks, removal is the safer choice.

2. When is the best time for tree removal? 
Winter is a good time, but acting before winter storms is even better to prevent potential damage.

3. How can I tell if my tree needs removal? 
Signs like a split trunk, leaning, disease, root damage, or previous storm damage are indicators to consider removal.

4. Why choose a company with a tree crane for removal? 
A tree crane minimizes property damage, reduces risk, and speeds up the removal process.

5. How can I get an estimate for tree removal? 
Contact us at 585-265-2490 to schedule a free estimate with Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service.

Fall Planting

Why Fall is the Ideal Time for Planting

When it comes to landscaping, many people automatically think of spring as the prime planting season. After all, it follows a long, cold winter, and we’re all eager to get back outside and see some greenery. However, fall is another excellent time to revamp your landscape, and some experts argue that it might even be the best time, especially for adding new trees, shrubs, and perennials.

In this article, we’ll explore why fall is the ideal season for planting and how it can benefit your landscape in numerous ways.

The Perfect Planting Conditions

In the fall, a unique combination of warm soil and milder weather creates the perfect conditions for newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials. Warm soil temperatures in the fall encourage robust root growth, surpassing the growth rates seen in the spring when the soil is still warming up.

Additionally, the shorter days and cooler air temperatures of fall allow plants to allocate more energy towards developing a robust root system, preparing them for the upcoming winter. This extra focus on root growth in the fall pays off when spring arrives, as these well-established plants can quickly channel their energy into producing new growth.

Strategic Planning

Fall is also an ideal time for planning your landscape. By planting in the fall, your landscape will be ready to shine come early spring. With all your established trees, shrubs, and perennials in place and leafed out, it becomes much easier to identify any gaps in your design or areas where you’d like to introduce a different texture or a pop of color.

This means you can add annuals and extra plants in the spring, with your base of larger trees, shrubs, and plants already firmly established. Consequently, you’ll have more time to tackle other projects in the spring while enjoying a well-prepared and aesthetically pleasing landscape.

Evergreen Excellence

Fall is particularly suitable for planting evergreen trees and shrubs. Planting them during the hot summer months can lead to stress due to inadequate watering. Since evergreens retain their foliage year-round, they are vulnerable to increased moisture loss during occasional winter warm spells. However, with a robust, well-established root system, they can better withstand these challenges.

After planting evergreens in the fall, it’s essential to water them thoroughly and continue regular watering until the ground freezes. Once the ground is frozen, adding a two- to three-inch layer of fresh mulch can help insulate the soil and protect the plants. If you’re interested in mulch, we have a wide selection available.

Don’t Wait for Spring

While spring will always be a great time for planting, there’s a strong case to be made for fall being even better. So, if you have plans to enhance your landscape, don’t feel compelled to wait. Give us a call at 586-265-2490, and we’ll be happy to set up a time for a free estimate. This way, you can get a head start on next year’s growing season. At Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service, we also offer financing options for all tree removal and landscaping projects, including a 0% interest option for 12 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fall offers unique advantages for landscaping projects. The optimal planting conditions, strategic planning opportunities, and suitability for evergreen planting make it a season worth considering for your next landscaping endeavor. Don’t delay; take advantage of the benefits of fall planting and enjoy a beautifully transformed landscape next spring.

FAQs

Is fall the only suitable time for planting? 
While fall has its advantages, you can plant throughout the year. Each season has its benefits and drawbacks, so it depends on your specific needs.

Should I water my newly planted trees and shrubs during the winter? 
Yes, it’s essential to continue watering until the ground freezes, especially for evergreen plants, to ensure they survive the winter successfully.

Can I add new plants to my landscape in the spring after fall planting? 
Absolutely! Spring is an excellent time to complement your existing landscape with annuals and other plants to enhance its beauty.

How do I identify gaps or areas that need improvement in my landscape? 
Wait until spring when your existing plants are in full foliage to get a clear picture of your landscape’s layout and identify any design enhancements needed.

What financing options does Preston’s Tree & Landscape Service offer? 
We offer various financing options, including a 0% interest option for 12 months, to make your tree removal and landscaping projects more manageable.

Paver Patio

Benefits of Using Pavers for Your Patio or Walkway

When considering enhancements to your outdoor living space, such as a patio or walkway, pavers emerge as an exceptional option. Paver patios and sidewalks have the ability to elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your exterior areas. In this article, we will delve into the myriad advantages that come with opting for pavers in your outdoor design.

A Multitude of Choices for Creative Expression

The allure of pavers lies in the extensive array of choices they offer. Homeowners are drawn to paver patios due to their versatility and the abundant possibilities for customization. These individual pavers come in a diverse range of shapes, colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to craft a truly unique and visually captivating outdoor space.

The selection of pavers encompasses everything from pure rectangular options to squares and longer rectangles, presenting a myriad of creative avenues. Pavers extend their influence beyond just patios, effortlessly merging with walkways, retaining walls, and even integrated fireplaces, bringing a distinct hardscaping dimension to your property.

Your yard becomes a canvas, where you can blend pavers harmoniously or design a striking pattern that resonates with your personal style. From modern elegance to rustic charm, pavers seamlessly complement various architectural aesthetics, granting you the freedom to infuse your outdoor area with a touch of individuality that knows no bounds.

Elevating Your Property’s Value and Appeal

The utilization of paver patios, walkways, and retaining walls serves as an investment that appreciates over time. Enhancing both the curb appeal and overall value of your home, pavers bestow a remarkable transformation upon your outdoor environment. Potential homebuyers are often captivated by the allure of patios, making pavers a compelling asset. These meticulously arranged pavers carve out spaces where homeowners can unwind, bask in the warmth of a fireside gathering, nurture a garden, connect with friends, and relish the passing moments.

As a result, not only do pavers enhance your home’s marketability, they also accelerate the selling process when the time arrives to list your property. The precise return on investment varies based on factors like location, buyer demand, and patio design; nevertheless, the probability of recouping a substantial portion of your investment while concurrently amplifying your property’s worth remains high.

Long-Term Benefits That Outshine Costs

Although the initial cost of pavers for your patio or walkway might surpass that of concrete, their long-term benefits eclipse this price differential. Pavers emerge as a judicious investment due to their ease of maintenance and cost-effective reparability. Unlike concrete, pavers are designed for uncomplicated upkeep, requiring minimal effort to retain their pristine appearance.

In the unfortunate event of damage, pavers can be repaired at a lower expense compared to their concrete counterparts. What truly distinguishes pavers is their remarkable durability, boasting a substantially longer lifespan. This longevity translates to a significant advantage, making the higher upfront investment in pavers a wise financial decision over the years.

Aesthetic Enhancement and Outdoor Enjoyment

By choosing a paver patio, you are embracing an opportunity to infuse your landscaping with elegance and vitality. The installation of pavers breathes life into your outdoor space, offering a haven where nature meets comfort. Your family and friends will find respite in the enchanting surroundings, as they relish moments of relaxation and outdoor entertainment. The versatility of pavers extends beyond their visual appeal, culminating in a cohesive fusion of style and substance that enhances the quality of your outdoor living experience.

In conclusion, the advantages of using pavers for your patio or walkway are undeniable. From the boundless creative options they provide to the tangible increase in property value, pavers stand as a testament to the art of harmonizing aesthetics and function. While the initial investment may be higher, the enduring benefits in terms of maintenance, repair, and lifespan ultimately make pavers a prudent choice for those seeking to transform their outdoor space into an inviting sanctuary.

Contact Us for Your Paver Project!

Are you ready to elevate your outdoor space with the timeless elegance of pavers? Contact us today to discuss your vision and explore the endless possibilities that pavers can bring to your home. Our experienced team is dedicated to turning your dreams into reality. Let’s create a stunning paver masterpiece that will enhance your lifestyle and property value for years to come.

FAQs About Paver Patios and Walkways

Are Pavers Suitable for All Types of Outdoor Spaces?
Absolutely! Pavers offer a wide range of design options that can be adapted to various outdoor areas, from small patios to expansive landscapes.

What kind of maintenance do pavers require?
Pavers are relatively low-maintenance, requiring occasional cleaning and periodic resealing to preserve their appearance and integrity.

Can I install pavers on my own, or should I hire a professional?
While DIY installation is possible, hiring a professional ensures proper installation and longevity.

Do pavers withstand harsh weather conditions?
Yes, pavers are highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including freeze-thaw cycles.

How do pavers compare to concrete in terms of environmental impact?
Pavers are considered more environmentally friendly than concrete due to their permeability, which allows water to infiltrate the soil and reduces runoff.

Winter Poinsettias

Winter Poinsettias, Christmas Star, Crown of the Andes, & Christmas Flower, the Poinsettia has been a symbol for holiday cheer & festivities. With being just as iconic as the Christmas tree, we are introducing Poinsettias as we lead into the holiday season! Also known as the Christmas Star, Crown of the Andes, or the Christmas Flower, the Poinsettia has been a symbol for holiday cheer and festivities for centuries.

A botanist during the 1800s by the name of Joel Roberts Poinsett traveled to Mexico as a minister and was introduced to the “Mexican Flame Flower”. He loved it so much that he sent several to his greenhouses in South Carolina to propagate and be introduced as a festive symbol. Incredibly popular in both folklore and modern history, the Poinsettia blooms as a true symbol of the holiday spirit all over the world.


The Poinsettia is a member of the Euphorbia/Spurge genus and is native to Mexico and Central America. This plant comes in an array of colors ranging from red to white and even purple. The leafy colorful part of the Poinsettia is called the bracts.

One of the newer Poinsettia hybrids is the ‘Plum Pudding; this is the first purple Poinsettia hybrid! Each color of Poinsettia symbolizes something else. For instance, white stands for purity or forgiveness while pink stands for renewal.

Here are a few pointers to keep your new holiday cheer bright and lively. If your Poinsettia comes in foil, poke some holes in the bottom to encourage drainage. Poinsettias are susceptible to root rot, so overwatering is the quickest way to kill your new plant. Wilting leaves and a brown/black stem are signs of overwatering or root rot. Put your plant in bright filtered light, yellowing or dropping of the leaves can be a sign of not enough light.

Keep your Poinsettia warm! They prefer to be in 65-75 degrees to keep them in bloom for as long as possible. Be sure to avoid drafts or letting your Poinsettia touch a cold window because this can also injure them.


There isn’t a window display that doesn’t have Poinsettias during the holidays. Be sure to grab a few to brighten your home or give away as gifts this holiday season!

Evergreens

Evergreens & Mixed Evergreen Wreath Classes

We’re rolling into the Holidays, packing away the rakes and hoses in exchange for Christmas lights. It’s the time of year that evergreens are put in the spotlight to really shine. They supply the year-round interest your gardens and landscape are searching for in a plethora of shapes, sizes, and shades of green. 

Evergreens are split up into two categories: needle-bearing and broadleaf. Arborvitaes, Pines, Spruces, and Yews are all needle-bearing evergreens while Azaleas, Boxwoods, and Rhododendrons are broadleaf evergreens. When you are picking out your evergreens, you should consider trying to use a mix of native plantings. Native plantings, such as the White Pine, will be easier to maintain since they’re from this area. Using different kinds of plantings will also make you less likely to have a pest or disease wipe the whole bed out. Plus, when you use a mix of evergreens it creates a beautiful look with the different shades of green and types of foliage.

The landscaping you can do with evergreens is endless. You can create living privacy fences by using evergreens such as Yews, Boxwoods, Holly, or Green Giant Arborvitae. Try planting them in a zig-zag pattern for a fuller look! You can also plant evergreens strategically to help block the wind from your home, causing your energy bill to lower. Creating a wind break is also great for the smaller local wildlife. Evergreens of all sizes create shelter, food, water, and nesting sites for birds. If you’re trying to create a bird haven, evergreens are the way to go!

While we do encourage planting the evergreens, we also encourage learning all the fun crafts you can create with them. Here at Preston’s, we offer crafting classes with Lisa. Lisa will teach you how to make your very own mixed evergreen wreath just in time for the holidays! These classes are being offered on 11/27 & 11/30. Call the store at (315) 524-2200 for registration details.

Fall Planting for Spring Bulbs

As all of us in upstate NY are getting ready to brace for Winter’s impact, let’s turn our focus to the coming Spring and its colorful potential! Bright yellow Daffodils, fiery red Tulips, and bubblegum pink Hyacinths are going to be your new way to snap out of those wintery blues. Let’s get planting!

Spring-blooming bulbs are the first pops of color we see every year after the Winter finally starts to ease up. Ranging from yellow to blue to pink, you have a large selection of colors and shapes to pick from. At Preston’s, we can’t help but favor the Giant Allium with its funky blooms and the Tulip with its range in colors. If you’re looking for shorter with more blossoms though, look no further than the Hyacinth or Grape Hyacinth. With such a huge variety, Spring-blooming bulbs are a great way to scatter life throughout your landscape after a cruddy Rochester Winter.

Once you’ve picked which Spring blooms you’d like, it’s time to pick out your bulbs. When you’re picking a bulb make sure it’s not withered, squishy, or moldy. Now when it comes to the size of the bulb, generally the bigger the bulb the more blooms it will have. If you get a smaller bulb, don’t be sad! It will grow and be just as bountiful as a larger one in a couple of years.

Now that you’ve obtained your Spring-blooming bulbs, it’s time to think about planting them. Getting your bulbs into the ground is of the utmost importance because bulbs only have energy for 1 dormant season! They also don’t particularly care for being stored outside of soil either, it causes them to wither and die. While it is very important to get your bulbs into the ground, it’s even more crucial to do it at the right time of year.

For those of us in upstate NY, we cannot trust the weather but what else is new? The typical time for us to plant our Spring bulbs is between October and November. You must give the soil a chance to cool down or it will cause the bulb to break dormancy early. Once the temperature is consistently about 50 degrees or cooler for 2 or more weeks, it’s time to plant. It’s important to plant at least 6 weeks before a ground-hardening frost hits. Getting your bulbs in the cooler ground before the serious frost hits gives the roots time to develop and encourage the bulbs to turn on a flowering formation. It is safer to err on the side of caution and plant your bulbs later rather than too soon.

Planting bulbs is an easy task if you know the few important steps. One of the first steps to bulb planting is identifying which end is the top and which is the bottom of the bulb. When you plant a bulb, you’re going to want to plant it heads up. The top is usually a bit pointy and the bottom has roots. If you are unsure of which end is which, you can just plant the bulb on its side.

Where do you want to see your landscape come to life? Plant some bulbs there! We wish it were that easy, but there are some requirements for bulb locations. Most bulbs prefer full sun to keep their soil dryer and warmer. There are some exceptions like Violets who tend to favor shadier areas. The general rule is to not plant things under trees BUT with spring blooms you don’t have to worry about the tree foliage blocking out the sun. Just don’t plant your bulbs in a permanently shady area though! Spring bulbs look the best when they’re planted in groups or drifting along the landscape. By not planting them in rows, it encourages a more natural look. Even doing different size groups is a fun way to display bulbs.

Bulbs need to be planted in a hole 3x as deep as their diameter. Even if you don’t plant them deep enough or at the right angle, bulbs can wiggle their way to the depth and position they want! You can also encourage growth by sprinkling some bulb fertilizer in the hole while you’re planting them.

Watering your bulbs is important too. Once you plant them, you’ll want to water them a bit to get the root growing. If we have a drier Spring, it will become your job to make sure your bulbs are getting enough H2O. When you water your bulbs, make sure the water is soaking down to the level where your bulbs are buried. Bulbs need to have some water, but not too much because that can cause them to rot, this makes well-draining soil their best friend!

Once your bulbs are in the ground, mulch over them. When you mulch over the bulbs, use things like pine boughs, leaves, and mulch to help build a barrier against the freeze and thaw pattern of early Spring. Mulching is important because it helps prevent premature dormancy breaks.

After all your blooms have passed, it’s time to deadhead the bulbs. ONLY cut off the passed blossoms, not the foliage, your bulbs are still getting nutrients and energy from the sun for the upcoming cold season. Sometimes the foliage on your Spring bulbs starts to look sad and wimpy, planting perennials around the area of your bulbs is a great way to help hide the foliage! After you cut back the foliage, be sure to fertilize with compost to help get the bulbs ready for Winter.

If the cold beats you to planting, don’t abandon hope! Yes, it is very important to get your bulbs into the ground, but here are at least 2 ways to still get your Spring blooms. You can always pot your bulbs. Be sure to use a large container with plenty of potting soil and plant the bulbs at a proper depth/angle. Be sure not to press the bulbs to the edge of the pot because they will freeze but you do want to leave room between the bulbs for soil. Store this pot in an unheated garage, porch, or even your basement windowsill. As long as the bulbs are in a chilled spot, they will be ok for spring.

Another way to conquer the frozen ground is by planting the bulbs right on top of it! Spread the bulbs out on the ground and then cover them with 6-8” of potting soil. Mulch over the mound once it freezes over with things like pine boughs, compost, and leaves. Protect the bulbs!! This method of planting may not yield the highest number of blooms the first year, but it should improve with each season.

Bulbs do have pesky predators that you can protect them against. Squirrels are your main culprits but there are ways to help deter them. Using red pepper flakes by sprinkling them into the hole after you’ve put the bulb in is one way to keep pests away. Another is covering the area or mound with hardware fabric or a chicken wire cage.

You’ve chosen, planted, and protected your bulbs. Now don’t forget where you planted them over the winter and enjoy your new colorful Spring display!

Pink Mums

Mums & Fall Foliage

While some of us here at Preston’s are not ready to give up our pool days and flip-flops, we are ready to talk Chrysanthemums and the fall foliage kings! With days cooling down and nights coming sooner, your landscape is starting its seasonal change.

Here in upstate New York, we pride ourselves on our vibrant fall foliage and leaf-peeping locations, let us make your landscape one of them! Mums are such a fun explosion of color for your seasonally changing landscape, especially when they’re planted in mass plantings.

After your Daisies, Coreopsis, and most other blooms have passed, it becomes Mum season. They come in a very large variety- from colors to blossom shape to annual vs. perennial. With the dozens of kinds of Chrysanthemums to choose from, the potting arrangements are endless!

Mums are also great for window boxes and other arrangement options for you to enjoy the weeks of blooms to come. Pair your Mums with Flowering Kale, ornamental peppers, and some Purple Fountain Grass for a fun seasonal planter. Don’t forget, Mums are the perfect backdrop for your pumpkins and gourds this Fall!

There are 2 kinds of Mums that break into subcategories, they are the Florist Mum and the Hardy Mum.

Florist Mums don’t do well outside in our area- or any area that gets chilly weather. Meant to be enjoyed in our bouquets, these Mums do not have runners to protect themselves from the cold as the Hardy Mum does.

The Hardy Mum or Garden Mum is a perennial in zones 5-9 and most can tolerate a light frost at the beginning of the season. One of the most important things you can do for your new Mum is to repot it and give it a good soak afterward.

Mums tend to have very tight root balls from growing in their nursery pots in the warm greenhouses, they’ll want to stretch out a bit. Fall is a great time for planting perennials, but you do run the risk of your plant’s roots not developing enough in the new soil fast enough.

To give your Mum the best chance of surviving winter make sure you water it every other day and put it in a spot to get 6+ hours of sunshine. Mums love full sun but not the heat, which is why fall is the Chrysanthemum’s favorite season! If you’re watering your mum enough, it will prevent wilting which affects the vibrancy of your blooms.

Don’t forget to dead-head your Mums to encourage the new buds!

Time to talk about the kings of foliage that we have here in New York State!

Some of our favorites here at Preston’s start with the classic Northern Red Oak. This tree boasts dark red foliage that physically hangs on longer than the other trees in the area.

Next, we have our beloved Dogwoods, focusing especially on the Kousa and Bailey Red Twig. Dogwoods have always been known for their spring interest with all their beautiful blooms, but they also make for great fall interest too!

The foliage goes from orange to reddish-purple and the branches even don berries in the colder seasons for the birds. Some Dogwoods do have vibrant branches, the Bailey Red Twigged Dogwood or Yellow Twigged would make a beautiful contrast to the bleaker winter/fall landscapes.

If you’re looking for a pop of gold in your landscape- look no further than the Birch Tree. Most of these trees come with an added bonus- a fun textured bark that looks great in landscaping and your home!

Our favorite fall foliage king is the Japanese Maple or Acer Palm. With so many foliage texture variations and color variations, how could this not be a fan favorite? Their lacey foliage ranges from light green to gold to even burgundy/purple. Some Japanese Maples, such as the Tamukeyama, do great in pots on your patio too.

A fresh tree planting with a sprinkling of Mums is a wonderful way to embrace the changing seasons and brighten up your landscape.

Come check out our Chrysanthemum selection and fall foliage tree selection at Preston’s Home & Garden Center in Ontario NY.

Hydrangea

Hydrangeas & Hydrangea Trees

The hydrangea shrub and hydrangea trees are crowd favorites, especially in N.Y. and neighboring North-Eastern states.  With the spring rain and breaks in the summer heat, we have a great climate for all sorts of these deciduous shrubs.  From small to large, bold to subtle, and a large variety to pick from, the hydrangea will be a great addition to your landscape!

Hydrangeas come in an array of colors, foliage, and sizes.  They can range from creams to blues to even pinks and multicolored.  Some of our favorites are in the NEW ‘Seaside Serenade’ collection – they boast beautiful, bright blossoms on dense foliage and have longer-lasting blooms!  While color ranges on hydrangeas, so does the shape of the blossoms. 

Hydrangea blooms can go from a full cone-like shape to a more spaced-out blossom like the ‘Tiny Tuff Stuff’ hydrangea has.  Even the foliage varies on hydrangeas, going from small ovals to large oak-shaped leaves.  These shrubs come in multiple sizes as well – from dwarves at only 1.5’, like the ‘Pink Elf’, to tall trees.

Hydrangea trees are a fun way to add some height and extra color later in the summer.  With fun names like ‘Pinky-Winky’ & ‘Pee Gee’, these trees will become a focal point in your garden.  Their blossoms are dense and cone-shaped. Most are usually white, but there are hydrangea trees that have a pink hue at the ends.

These shrubs are not difficult to keep looking beautiful. They prefer well-draining soil and they don’t pay too much attention to the level of acidity.  Hydrangeas do need to be pruned.  Depending on when the buds set on your hydrangea, that will determine the best time.  Blossoms happen on the new growth of hydrangea trees – you’ll want to avoid pruning at the wrong time or you’ll interrupt your blossoms!  For some extra bright blooms on your hydrangeas, try out a bloom booster!

Purple Hibiscus Bush

Hibiscus & Rose of Sharon

Need a *POP* of color in your garden? Are you worried about a colorless garden later in the season?

Look no further than the Hibiscus or Rose of Sharon!

They are classified as deciduous shrubs but with some pruning, in the winter or early spring, you can easily get a tree shape or even a blossoming hedge. These beauties bloom later in the season after the spring and most summer blossoms are done with their display.

While you will love the array of colors, the smaller locals will appreciate them too. Rose of Sharon and Hibiscus is a fan favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds with their perfume and flashy colors.

Their blooms range all across the color wheel- blues, pinks, whites, reds, yellows, purples, and even blossoms with a mix of colors. The foliage on these shrubs can be variegated to add a little extra color- like the ‘Sugar Tip’ Rose of Sharon.

These are very tolerant shrubs- they aren’t bothered by the heat, humidity, or most pests. They actually LOVE the heat and full sun. They aren’t too picky when it comes to soil either- just make sure it drains well.

Be patient with your Hibiscus & Rose of Sharon– they are late bloomers and late to get their leaves.