Trees, Shrubs & Getting Your Money’s Worth
It’s true - money does grow on trees and other plants in your home’s landscape.
 
Healthy trees and woody ornamentals add to property value an average 15 percent, according to Lane Dellinger of Beauti-Scapes of SML. Plus, an attractive and well-maintained landscape beautifies the neighborhood and provides a great place to relax.

Unfortunately, explains Dellinger, landscape plants are vulnerable to attack by a wide range of diseases caused primarily by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, known as “biotic” agents of plant disease.

“Homeowners won't see the microorganisms which cause blights, leaf spots, and other problems on azaleas, roses, hollies, oaks, and other plants which are popular in the Lake area.”

”Prolonged exposure of roots to saturated soils leads to plant death and the expense of plant replacement. Because plant symptoms of biotic and abiotic disorders are often very similar, a professional, or skilled gardener, is needed to make an accurate diagnosis which is essential for effective treatment.

“Most plant health problems can be prevented, provided home landscapers become more knowledgeable of diseases,” says Dellinger.

“If the homeowner can recognize the problems, then precautionary steps can be taken to prevent parasitic and nonparasitic disease development.”

Lane Dellinger is resident of Wirtz who runs Beauti-Scapes a Landscape Design Company 540.537.2539.