Maureen Sexsmith-West ISA Certified Arborist, PR4600A
Having been somewhat confined to the house with our recent extreme winter weather (-50 degrees Celcius last night), I have been able to delve deeply into reading (and surfing) to expand my mind and fill time between shovelling.
I came across a discussion on one of my LinkedIn groups and found it particularly fascinating. As a tree person and lover of all things green, I read with great interest the comments from all over the world. One of the shares included a link to a video. I clicked. I invite you to do the same. The Eden Project
It reinforced my passion to preserve trees and to encourage those around me to plant something – anything. Be it a flower, a veg, a tree or turf – even a house plant will do. Love it, nurture it and reap all the fantastic benefits plants offer our planet. Young or old, it does not matter. Not necessarily for me – but for my new wonderful grandson to benefit and enjoy and those you love. So the next time you curse the leaves filling your gutter in the fall – remember they provide the oxygen you breathe, the shade that keeps your home cool or buffers wind, they filter toxins from the soil. When fruit drop makes life slippery – remember it is food for you and wildlife. When you cringe at the cost of your water bill – remember to vibrant colours, the cool feel of grass between your toes, the fragrances and the wildlife that comes to your yard. Think about the video – Imagine a world without plants.
A maintained yard can be affordable if done on a regular basis – a good habit if you like, that offers exercise and mental clarity. Leaving trees until they are overgrown, branches are breaking and weeds are overwhelming adds stress and major expenditures to your life. Let it begin with you – in your own yard and then spread it to your neighbourhood and your community. Get involved in community or horticultural groups, teach children to love and care for natural things, help a neighbour and make a new acquaintance. Make time away from phones and computers and rediscover yourself out doors. You won’t regret it.
