From the August, 2020 newsletter
We are blessed, at St Peter’s, to have trees and shrubs that contribute to the beauty and the serene atmosphere at St Peter’s. The large sycamore behind the church was probably a young tree already when the church was built. It appears in the earliest drawings and photos of the church. To keep our trees and shrubs healthy is just as important as taking care of the buildings.
A Tree Fund has been established to cover the cost of maintaining our trees and shrubs. Consider donating to this fund in honor or in memory of someone. We hope to have some work done soon by Bartlett Tree Experts to correct some problems that have developed recently.
Unfortunately, the large yew near the Parish House received a large dose of oil that spilled from the transformer on the electrical pole near the yew. Jason Coiner, of Bartlett Tree Experts, diagnosed this problem. The only treatment for this tree is to soak it with water at least once a week in order to help the roots clear the tree’s system of the poisonous oil. Junior Warden Johnny Davis is taking care of this watering.
Yew
Large Sycamore
Jason also examined the large sycamore behind the church as well as the sycamore at the side of the church. For the past several years, these trees have had their new leaves turn brown and drop before they at last get their big green summer leaves. This browning is due to a fungus that can be treated by an injection to help the trees fight the fungus. The soil around the trees has been tested and a fertilizer to bring the soil to optimal condition for the trees can be applied.
Front Boxwood
Back Boxwood
The boxwoods at the front of the church, on either side of the sidewalk, have an infestation of leafminers, so they and the boxwoods in the back of the church need to be treated.
Side Sycamore
Saucer Magnolia
Both large sycamores, the yew tree and the saucer magnolia (above) need pruning to reduce risk of branch failure, ensure proper branch spacing, provide clearance over the drive (in the case of the saucer magnolia), and to remove dead branches in the case of the yew.
Jason recommends that we install lightening protection for the large sycamore behind the church.
The Vestry will be making decisions about these matters at its August meeting.