Are you looking for the perfect late spring and early summer wispy, white, fragrant flowering tree? If so, the fringe tree is what you are looking for! Not only do these trees create a beautiful addition to any yard, they can also make it look like it snowed when their petals fall. These trees don’t grow as tall as some other flowering trees, making them perfect for planting close to your patio, in small yards, under power lines, or as a shrub border. Our team at Five Star Tree Services has come up with some tips on how to care for these delightful trees and the different varieties they come in. Fringe Tree Appearance The average height of a fringe tree is about 10-20 feet tall. This makes it easy for it to fit into any garden nicely. The most prominent thing about this beautiful tree is its white fragrant flowers which bloom in May and early June. These flowers are grouped together in thin, fleecy hanging bands that are 6-8 inches long. These flowers appear all over the tree just before all the leaves start to sprout. After the flowers have fallen, you can enjoy the oval-shaped, dark green leaves for the summer and then the delightful yellow leaves during the fall. The female trees can produce a blackish-blue fruit after the flowers fall, this is a great way to attract your local birds. The bark on the tree is scaly and has red furrows with dark brown ridges. It does best in full sun with well drained but moist soil. It can also tolerate drought and is good with air pollution. With its strong branches but delicate flowers, in order to maximize your enjoyment of the flowers, make sure to plant this tree somewhere that is sheltered from the wind. The Facts Fringe trees are actually related to the olive family and are native to easters North America. They naturally grow on streambanks and hillsides in moist woods. Due to the tassel-like flowers, another name for this tree is Old Man’s Beard. As a remedy for gallbladder inflammation, previously, the bark from the fringe tree has been used in herbal medicine. It has also historically been used as a way to treat wounds. Varieties of Popular Fringe Trees There are 2 popular fringe trees: Chionanthus Retusus- this is a Chinese fringe tree. It is tall with lush branches and beautiful leaves. Other varieties under this are: -Pizazz -Carolina Moonlight -Rubrum -Emerald Snow -Burgundy -Snowdance Chionanthus Virginicus- this is the native easters North American fringe tree we have been focusing on. Care Instructions Luckily, these trees are easy to care for. To have a happy tree and many blooms, follow these tree care tips. Growth Zones- 3-9 Plant- in moist soil that has good drainage. Height- 12-20 feet when mature. The growth rate is about 6-10 inches a year. Sun Exposure- full sun Flowers- May to early June. The blossoms usually last about 2 weeks. Prune- Do not prune during dormant times. Once the tree is older, it won’t require much pruning. Simply cut out damaged, weak, or dead branches. Deer Resistance- deer rarely damage these trees. Threats With this easy to care for tree, you don’t have to worry about much. However, there are a few pests to look out for. In order to fight off pests like spider mites and scales, proper planting, watering, and fertilizing will keep it healthy and pest free. If a tree gets stressed, borers will take this opportunity to tunnel inside the tree and eat the bark. To keep these trees safe, avoid injuring them. These trees can also act as a secondary host for the emerald ash borer. Avoid planting a fringe tree in known areas where these invasive insects like to live. How Five Star Tree Services Can Help If you have been looking for the perfect flowering tree to plant in your yard, the fringe tree might be the best one for you! If you have any questions about what trees are best for your property, make sure to give us a call at (416) 990-3355! Here at Five Star Tree Services, we can offer different options and also offer you our Richmond Hill Tree Planting Services!

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

Modern bathroom where walls are adorned with large, pristine white tiles, creating an atmosphere of cleanliness and freshness. On the left side, a dark gray towel hangs neatly from a sleek metallic bar, providing a subtle contrast against the white backdrop. Moving to the floor, we find small, multicolored terrazzo tiles that add texture and visual interest. These tiles create a playful yet sophisticated vibe, making the shower space feel inviting. The star of the show is the shower fixture on the right. It boasts a sleek design, with an adjustable handheld showerhead attached to a metallic hose. Practicality meets style here. Above the fixture, a narrow shelf holds two dark-colored bottles—likely containing luxurious bath products. The back wall features a frosted glass door, allowing natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy. The ceiling hosts an exhaust fan, ensuring proper ventilation.

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

White Birch and begonias surround a brand new ET Satellite Timer system for this lawn's new sprinkler system. This state of the art timer saves water and hassle. TRU Landscape Services

This small modern rooftop was a challenge to design as we wanted to give the client the feel of an open design but also give them rooms with comfort. This project contains a kitchen with fridge, grill, stove top, and storage. kitchen table Water-jet cut panels, small grassy area, lounge area with one of our custom fire tables and a 360 deg rotating sail shade and custom planter counterweight. Photos by: Don Maldonado

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

The Noblesse product line combines traditional domestic visuals with fashion forward designs, executed with the customary level of excellence expected from Mohawk. Beginning with oak and chestnut decors, we are able to provide plenty of options for the conventional consumer. Walnut and cherry visuals add a domestic exotic flair to the collection. The collection is finished with teak and amendoim decors.

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

The introduction of pink shades in the interior The interior in pink color allows you to show taste preferences, with a spectacular result, only a few basic rules need to be considered: ● Optical experiments - a combination of colors will add volume to both decorative details and furniture. If one wall is covered with light paint, the room will become visually more spacious and the ceiling will be higher. Tip: a table and a sofa in light lilac colors will appear larger in size, which looks very advantageous in small bedrooms or bathrooms. ● A thorough knowledge of the color palette will allow you to properly organize space. The colors of warm shades add to the interior lightness and comfort. Cold - positively affect mood and energy balance. ● Each combination of colors should be weighted and well thought out. To ensure that the interior is not tedious, it is recommended to paint in pink, maximum 2 walls, and in no case, not all 4. ● Complete the interior with other colors: brown, yellow-gray, turquoise. The interior should be bright accents. If you prefer dark colors to the walls, complement them with beige, white and pale lilac flowers. ● Paints should be harmoniously combined with the chosen style of the interior. Pink, perfectly harmonizes with the classic, romantic, Scandinavian, retro style and pop art style. ● Total should be in moderation. A good interior is harmony and balance of colors. We recommend in the same room to use one shade for the accent and two main. ● All color shades in the same room must be in harmony with each other.

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

This is an example of a farmhouse landscaping in Denver.

Jason Miller of Pixelate Ltd. A formal powder room that lost its luster gets a huge makeover and regains glamour with this complete revamp. Originally, the room housed an oddly placed round vanity that floated in the middle of the room, making for a very awkward walking space to the commode room. A window that looked out to the exterior of the home prior to a Sun Room addition was left in creating another mar in the potential this generously sized bath offered if laid out properly. During the renovation, the plumbing was moved to the far right wall and sconces flanked either side. The center fixture was replaced with a flush-mount that filled the space nicely while still accentuating the overall design. The inspiration for the asian-motif floral mural came from the foyer (the bath is directly off of it) and its original moldings and black and white palette dating to the late 20's, which although had been repainted, still maintained the feel of that period. The sweeping blossoms lend a sense of whimsy and the saturated backdrop gives the blooms a dewy effect as if kissed by moonlight. The goal was to have an eye drawing element in the foyer since the door would be left open most of the time and the was definitely achieved by the graphic use of texture and color in this bath.

Pepper plants are a delightful addition to any garden, offering a vibrant burst of color and spice to your culinary creations. However, even experienced gardeners can encounter challenges when growing pepper plants. In this blog, we'll explore some common issues you might face and provide practical solutions to help your pepper plants thrive. 1. Slow or Stunted Growth Issue: Slow or stunted growth in pepper plants can be discouraging, but there are specific steps you can take to address this issue effectively. Solution: a. Soil Health: - Well-Draining Soil: Ensure your pepper plants are in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can inhibit growth. - Organic Matter: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its texture and nutrient content. - pH Level: Test the soil pH and adjust it to the ideal range between 6.0 and 6.8 using lime or sulfur as needed. b. Fertilization: - Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for vegetables to provide essential nutrients steadily throughout the growing season. - Compost: Amend the soil with compost to enhance nutrient availability and soil structure. This can promote healthier growth. c. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels by watering your pepper plants regularly but avoid waterlogging. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting based on your local climate and weather conditions. - Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. 2. Yellowing Leaves Issue: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of various underlying problems, but addressing them promptly can restore the vibrancy of your pepper plants. Solution: a. Nutrient Deficiencies: - Balanced Fertilization: Use a well-balanced fertilizer that includes micronutrients to address nutrient deficiencies. - Specific Nutrients: If you suspect a particular deficiency, such as magnesium, iron, or nitrogen, apply the appropriate nutrient supplement following package instructions. b. Pest and Disease Control: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for common pests like aphids and mites. Remove affected leaves and treat with organic pesticides if necessary. - Disease Management: Look out for signs of diseases like bacterial leaf spot or fungal issues. Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended. 3. Blossom Drop Issue: When pepper plants drop their blossoms prematurely, it can hinder fruit development and lead to disappointment. Solution: a. Temperature Control: - Stable Temperatures: Ensure your pepper plants are exposed to consistent temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during flowering. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations by providing shelter or using row covers. b. Pollination: - Assist with Pollination: If growing peppers indoors or in a greenhouse, help with pollination by gently shaking the plants or using a small brush to transfer pollen between flowers. Outdoor pepper plants are usually pollinated by insects. 4. Wilting Plants Issue: Wilting or drooping pepper plants can be a sign of various problems, but proper care can revive them. Solution: a. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Adjust your watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the day to prevent fungal issues. - Drainage: Ensure proper soil drainage by amending the soil or using raised beds to prevent waterlogged roots. b. Pest Control: - Pest Inspection: Examine the undersides of leaves for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with biological insecticides. 5. Curling Leaves Issue: Curling or misshapen leaves indicate stress in pepper plants, which can be caused by various factors. Solution: a. Environmental Stress: - Stable Conditions: Ensure your pepper plants are in an environment with stable humidity, temperature, and adequate air circulation. Avoid sudden changes in conditions. - Proper Ventilation: Adequate air circulation can reduce humidity and prevent fungal issues. b. Pest and Disease Management: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, addressing them promptly with organic remedies as needed. 6. Sunscald Issue: Sunscald can lead to discolored, leathery patches on pepper fruits when exposed to intense sunlight. Solution: a. Shade Cloth: - Sun Protection: Shield your pepper plants from harsh sunlight during the hottest part of the day using shade cloth or by planting them where they receive some filtered sunlight. b. Pruning: - Fruit Shading: Prune excess foliage to allow better fruit shading, reducing the risk of sunscald. Ensure that there's a balance between foliage and fruit. 7. Pepper Plant Pests and Diseases Issue: Aphids, mites, whiteflies, and various diseases can affect pepper plants, but you can manage them effectively. Solution: a. Regular Inspection: - Vigilant Monitoring: Regularly inspect your pepper plants for signs of pests or diseases, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and stems. b. Organic Remedies: - Pest Control: Use organic remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or diatomaceous earth for pest control. - Disease Management: Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended to manage diseases like powdery mildew or bacterial spot. While growing pepper plants can present various challenges, these common issues are manageable with the right knowledge and care. Regular monitoring, proper soil preparation, and timely intervention can help you enjoy a bountiful harvest of vibrant, spicy peppers. Remember that gardening is a learning experience, and each challenge you face is an opportunity to improve your skills and enjoy the rewards of homegrown peppers in your favorite dishes.

Low growing California native plants provide a colorful carpet in the springtime. Edger Landscape Design
Inspiration for a mid-sized rustic drought-tolerant and partial sun backyard stone landscaping in San Francisco for spring.

Le jardinet
Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Phoenix.

The owners requested a Private Resort that catered to their love for entertaining friends and family, a place where 2 people would feel just as comfortable as 42. Located on the western edge of a Wisconsin lake, the site provides a range of natural ecosystems from forest to prairie to water, allowing the building to have a more complex relationship with the lake - not merely creating large unencumbered views in that direction. The gently sloping site to the lake is atypical in many ways to most lakeside lots - as its main trajectory is not directly to the lake views - allowing for focus to be pushed in other directions such as a courtyard and into a nearby forest. The biggest challenge was accommodating the large scale gathering spaces, while not overwhelming the natural setting with a single massive structure. Our solution was found in breaking down the scale of the project into digestible pieces and organizing them in a Camp-like collection of elements: - Main Lodge: Providing the proper entry to the Camp and a Mess Hall - Bunk House: A communal sleeping area and social space. - Party Barn: An entertainment facility that opens directly on to a swimming pool & outdoor room. - Guest Cottages: A series of smaller guest quarters. - Private Quarters: The owners private space that directly links to the Main Lodge. These elements are joined by a series green roof connectors, that merge with the landscape and allow the out buildings to retain their own identity. This Camp feel was further magnified through the materiality - specifically the use of Doug Fir, creating a modern Northwoods setting that is warm and inviting. The use of local limestone and poured concrete walls ground the buildings to the sloping site and serve as a cradle for the wood volumes that rest gently on them. The connections between these materials provided an opportunity to add a delicate reading to the spaces and re-enforce the camp aesthetic. The oscillation between large communal spaces and private, intimate zones is explored on the interior and in the outdoor rooms. From the large courtyard to the private balcony - accommodating a variety of opportunities to engage the landscape was at the heart of the concept. Overview Chenequa, WI Size Total Finished Area: 9,543 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

Spring brings the first rays of steady sunlight that encourage your trees to start sprouting fruit and flowers. However, sometimes at the start of spring, the cold weather makes a sudden and abrupt turn as winter tries to reassert its dominance. This can cause a late freeze, which is difficult for many trees to combat. Fruit trees are the most vulnerable during a late freeze, but Five Star Tree Services has some suggestions to help you protect your fruit and flowering trees from a late freeze. Protecting Your Trees Some fruit trees are better able to protect themselves from the cold, but all trees need to be protected from the frost. Depending on the type of tree you have, several methods of protection are effective. Peach Trees: To protect peach trees, cover them with a blanket or a sheet during the day. This will allow heat to build up that will protect them at night during the freeze. Make sure to leave the cover in place until the freeze passes. Citrus Trees: These are the most fragile of all trees. Small trees should be draped with burlap, a sheet, a tree frost blanket, or any other type of fabric at least a day before the freeze occurs. The cover has to surround the whole tree to trap the heat and prevent frost. Apple Trees: These trees are pretty sturdy compared to other fruit-bearing trees. They can handle the cold, but it is still a good idea to cover them during sudden frost. It is important to avoid placing ground covers, mulch, and weeds from around the base of a tree during cold weather and frost periods. The moist bare soil emits more heat than soil that is mulched. Watering trees ahead of a frost can also help to protect them as water also emits heat. When you expect a freeze, it is also best to furrow-irrigate at night or use a sprinkler on its low setting while ensuring there is proper drainage for your trees. Any time the outside temperature is forecast to drop below 32 degrees; you should cover your trees. Which Trees Can Survive in the Cold? No fruit-bearing trees are made for cold climates, but some are better equipped to handle the cold than others. The Plant Hardiness Zone can help you choose the right trees to plant for the area where you live. For example, lemon trees and other citrus trees need to be planted in zones 9-11 where the risk of cold weather is minimal. Pear trees, on the other hand, need cold weather to thrive and should be planted in zones 4-8. Freezing Dangers Some fruit or flowering trees that are caught unguarded during the late frost may lose their blossoms. In many cases, these trees will no longer sprout during the current growing season but will come back next spring as healthy as ever. Younger trees are more prone to damage than mature trees. Trees that have closed buds are also able to handle the cold better than those that have already started to bloom. Of course, the longer a freeze is present, the more dangerous it is for your trees. How We Can Help The skilled arborists here at Five Star Tree Services are always on hand to help protect your trees from frost and with regular maintenance. Some of the other services we provide include tree removal, tree planting, and tree pruning in Richmond Hill and the Greater Toronto Area. If you require our assistance, give us a call at (416) 990-3355 today.

The Vision Our clients wanted a beautiful backyard to look out upon from their upper screen room, and to have a water feature to listen to. A functional space to have their grandchildren be able to enjoy and also the installation of lighting for safety and enjoyment in the evenings were high on the priority list. Their final wish list was an extended driveway and several trees nearby for privacy and future shade. The Challenge The site itself is in a low area and the lot was heavy clay that was often full of standing water. This was the biggest challenge with choosing plant material that would withstand some poor drainage in most areas. Project Features Paver border on driveway Water feature Bluestone and paver patio and walkways Outdoor Lighting Plantings Design + Plan Creating this landscape to be successful started with proper grading of the site to help reduce the amount of standing water. Drainage was installed as well as grading to allow water to be directed to a storm drain at the rear of the property. Plantings that will tolerate standing water, such as Red maple and Dawn Redwood were used in areas that may have flooding. A paver border was installed along the driveway to give them more space and add a finished look to the home. Natural stone steps and a bluestone patio were added with paver accents through the patio to highlight a path to the backyard from the deck. Boulders are placed throughout for the kids to climb on and to bring in more stones to play off of the water feature. Plantings include grasses, flowering shrubs, and perennials creating a casual atmosphere in the back landscape. The front entrance has shrub roses, coral bells, and grasses as well in high contrast colors for visual interest. The lighting throughout the landscape features path lighting for safety as well as uplights on many of the trees and downlighting onto the water feature in the backyard. Final Result New Build with the Future in Mind Many newly built homes in subdivisions leave a lot to be desired in the landscape, and this homeowner had the foresight to know that doing it right the first time is important. By investing in good materials and planning, and planting trees for the future early on, this landscape will last a long time and provide an amazing space for decades. A beautiful timeless combination of plantings and hardscape materials at this property along with the relaxing sound of the water feature make for a lovely retreat in this neighborhood.