How Do Trees Survive Cold Temperatures?

Here in Wisconsin, yet again, we’ve just survived another round of bone chilling, undeniably frigid temperatures with wind chills plummeting nearly to –30 F and lower in some places. Just another winter day (or week in this case) in the Badger State, right? For those that decide to brave the stinging cold and venture out…

The Magical Biochar

Whether planting trees or air spading, we incorporate biochar into the soil whenever we can. What exactly is biochar, though? Biochar is the result of heating biomass, such as forestry or agricultural waste, through a process called Pyrolysis. Pyrolysis is the heating of an organic material in the absence of oxygen. Due to the lack…

Needles Don’t Grow Back: Rhizosphaera Needle Cast and Your Trees

What is Rhizosphaera Needle Cast? Rhizosphaera needle cast is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii, which most commonly affects Colorado blue spruce trees. This disease results in premature needle loss, particularly in the inner and lower canopy of the tree. Left untreated, Rhizosphaera needle cast can cause significant damage, including complete defoliation…