It seems like the first sign of spring is always blooming Bradford Pear trees. They are one of the first trees to bloom and get your allergies acting up. They might seem beautiful with their white blooms, but they are ruining our landscape. 


It’s hard to get from point A to point B without seeing probably hundreds of Bradford Pears along the way. It’s rare to see a field without a few in it. That is because Bradford Pears have become more invasive than Kudzu. They have become so invasive that the S.C. Forestry Commission has encouraged for everyone to cut down their Bradford Pears. Not only have they taken up space in vacant fields, they have begun spreading into forest land and crowding out native trees. 


When Bradford Pears first became popular in the 1960s, it was believed that the tree was sterile and couldn’t be invasive. Their popularity lasted until the early 2000s when it became very apparent that this spring classic was actually taking over. These trees have been able to spread because they are able to cross-pollinate with native trees. Over time they also began producing fruit that birds ate, then they spread the seeds in their droppings. As these trees multiply, they develop sharp thorns and create dense thickets. They also affect native species of wood that are harvested for paper and wood production. Bradford Pears are threatening to so much! 


Bradford Pears are also notorious for splitting down the middle during storms. Too much wind? Too much ice? Too much rain? Sounds like the perfect condition for a Bradford Pear to break. These trees have the ability to grow to be 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide so when they split, they have been known to cause plenty of damage to homes and vehicles. 


If you have a Bradford Pear, consider getting rid of it to help get rid of the takeover. Native trees will thank you!


By: Hannah Raines
Copyright 2021 ALL Outdoors

​Fall has officially arrived and the leaves are finally starting to slowly change color and fall to the ground. Before you know it, your whole yard will be covered! Many people are unsure of what to do with this abundance of leaves. Usually in the fall, you see neighborhood streets lined with garbage bags filled with raked up leaves. However, there is so much more that you can do with the leaves!
 
Leaves are full of nutrients, so they can definitely be put to good use! However, don’t let leaves just sit on top of your lawn. If too many leaves pile up, they can block out air and sunlight from reaching the roots of your lawn. It is even worse if rain is added to the mix. Rain causes the leaves to be matted and if this is left too long, it can cause turf diseases to develop. 
 
The quickest and easiest way to take advantage of the leaves’ nutrients is to mulch them into your lawn. Most mowers have mulching blades that cut up the leaves into tiny pieces that settle in your lawn. These ground up pieces will decompose and provide free and all-natural food for your lawn!
 
Leaves can also be used to protect plants. Adding a layer of leaves will help insulate, adding protection from the cold weather and helping your plants be healthy when spring comes along. 
 
You can also use leaves to prepare for your next garden. If you have an area that is typically a garden bed, pile the leaves over this soil. By time spring comes, the leaves will be partially decomposed. You can then till the decomposed leaves into the ground and have healthy soil for your garden. Similarly, if you have a compost bin, you can add the leaves in there as well!
 
If you have any questions or concerns about your lawn, drop us a comment, send us a message or give us a call. We will be happy to answer any of your questions!
 
By: Hannah Raines
Copyright ALL Outdoors 2019

Now is a great time to plant ornamental trees in your yard. Planting ornamental trees is a great way to spruce up the look of your lawn! They are available in all shapes and sizes. The purpose of ornamental trees is to be a decorative focal point in your landscape. Many feature beautiful flowers, textured foliage, fruit, or wonderful scents. 

There are many options of ornamental trees that you can plant in the Upstate. This month, on our Facebook page, we featured a different type of ornamental tree every Tuesday. Below, you will find every ornamental tree that we featured this month, all in one place!