Favorite Hikes Near Northern Virginia

I have several favorite hikes near Northern Virginia. They are special for several reasons. First, some have amazing views. Second, some are by lovely streams or rivers. Finally, some are a just a walk in the woods to get some exercise. Check out these suggestions. There is a hike for everyone. Favorite Hikes Near Northern […]

Winter Tree Care

Winter Tree Care

Winter tree care is important, However, many people do not think about their landscape or trees during the winter. It is a great time to get your landscape and trees ready for the spring. Plus, we offer a winter discount. What could be better? Same great service at a lower price.

Beautiful Ice on Foliage

Ice on Tree Limbs

Ice on tree limbs is really pretty. However, it is a double edged sword. First, it provides for some great photo opportunities. Depending on the amount of ice coverage and temperatures, it can last a few hours or several days. This contributes to the extent of the next problem. Second, it can cause obvious and […]

Christmas Tree HIstory

Christmas Tree History

Early Christmas Tree History In many cultures, evergreens are a symbol of eternal life and immortality. Years ago, cherry and hawthorn trees were used as Christmas trees. Evergreens were used by Romans in December to celebrate a festival called Saturnalia. One of the first Christmas tree decorating ceremonies was in Riga, the capitol of Latvia […]

Purple Mushroom - Cortinarius violaceus

Purple Mushroom- Cortinarius violaceus

Purple mushrooms are hard to find. The ones in these photos are Cortinarius violaceus (L.) Gray or Violet Webcap. Most fungi are shades of brown, orange, white, or red. I didn’t find these in Northern Virginia. They reside along the Piney Branch Trail in Shenandoah National Park. I am sure that this hardwood forest is […]

Big Trees

Big Trees – Big Tree Registry

If you read my blog at all, you can tell I love trees. Big trees or small trees, they are such amazing feats of nature. I think it is amazing to a walk past a tree that could be 200 plus years old. There are actually data bases and organizations that certify, record, and list […]