SP RIN G 2 0 1 6
jo h n b w a r d . c o m
A message from Jim ward By Jim Ward, ISA Certified Arborist PD-53
forward-thinking — it can take a generation to grow an 80-foot-tall shade tree. The allée of cherry trees lining the walkway into the cemetery add to the property’s charm. Some of these trees are over 100 years old and were planted as a “test” by horticulturalists to see if Japanese cherry trees
Historic photo of the Merion Friends Meetinghouse soon after the sugar maple was planted.
ISA Certified Arborist James Ward and Johnny Vito under a large sugar maple tree at Merion Friends Meetinghouse.
— planned to be gifted to
may take 50 years or more to
Washington D.C. — could
grow a shade tree to maturity,
We are proud to care for the trees at Merion Friends Meeting in Merion. The Meeting was founded in 1682; construction of the meetinghouse began in 1695 and was completed in 1715.
thrive in the Northeast
we need to plan for the long
climate. And thrive they did!
term. We are the stewards
As a community, we need to
of our homes, parks, schools
continue to be practical and
and open spaces. Let’s work
forward-thinking. Although it
together to preserve our
During a recent visit to the Meeting, I walked the property
canopy and plant new trees in
with Hugh Darlington, our arborist who works with members
a thoughtful manner. As we enter our 59th year in
of the Meeting to care for the trees. I was immediately struck by the significant history of the meetinghouse and the
business, I would like thank
grounds. Everything was designed, built and maintained for
our clients for their support.
the long term. From the meetinghouse itself — which has
We will always strive to
been in continuous use for over 300 years — to the walls,
improve our company so that
the fencing, and, of course, the trees. There are several old
we can continue to deliver
sugar maple trees planted close to the meetinghouse. These trees were strategically planted to provide shade during the warm summer months. Planting these trees was practical and
2
Mulberry Tree Preservation By Matthew Ward
Ornamental Pruning By Matthew Ward
The Garden as Habitat By Ken LeRoy
3
Healthy Soil for Trees By Hugh Darlington
Cherry trees planted over 100 years ago add to the beauty of the Merion Friends property.
4
Plant Health Care News ;Emerald Ash Borer ;Pachysandra Woes ;Boxwood threats By Chris Ward
the highest level of professional services for your trees and shrubs.
5
Wood Decay fungi By Ken LeRoy