SUMMER 2023
The science of preserving nature since 1964
SPOTTED LANTERNFLY (SLF)
The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive species that poses a serious threat to agriculture and forestry. Originating from China, India, and Vietnam, the insect has caused significant damage in various regions across the United States and beyond. Recognized by their distinctive spotted wings, the Spotted Lanternflies are not merely an agricultural nuisance due to their destructive feeding habits, but also due to the sooty mold they leave behind, which degrades both plant life and outdoor furnishings.
Pests & Diseases Alert
Almstead has treatment options available to combat this pest. Please visit our Spotted Lanternfly page for more information and to schedule an appointment for treatment.
BEECH LEAF DISEASE (BLD) UPDATE
We have a new regime to treat Beech Leaf Disease, which is a devastating disease suspected to be caused by a nematode, or microscopic worm. This foliar-feeding nematode, Litylenchus crenatae mccannii, causes the leaves to become distorted, turn yellow or brown, and eventually drop from the tree. Healthy trees progressively weaken from the disease and die in a span of 2-6 years (depending upon the size of the tree) from the onset of symptoms. All cultivars of American and European beech are susceptible. The disease has rapidly spread and is now identified throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Almstead employs a two-pronged approach to BLD treatment. We apply a foliar spray to the leaves of the tree, as well as a drench to the lower portion of the trunk of the tree and its exposed trunk flares. The goal is to ensure that the treatment targets the entire tree – from the leaves to the roots, trunk and branches. We also aim to increase health and vigor and assist with the stress through fertilization and root invigoration practices.
Please visit our Beech Leaf Disease page for more information and to schedule an appointment for treatment.
Summer Tree Care Tips
Caring for your trees during the hot summer months can ensure that your trees thrive through the season. This includes watering, mulching, pruning, heat protection, and pest monitoring. As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, your trees may face unique challenges that require special attention... (more)
Lawn Maintenance in Summer
As the heat of the summer intensifies, maintaining a lush and green lawn can become a challenging task. Dry conditions can lead to a brittle and dull appearance, but with the right care and attention, your lawn can remain vibrant even under the relentless sun. Here are some essential tips for keeping your lawn green and healthy... (more)
Fall Tree Planting
Fall is an exciting time for planting, especially for those looking to add new trees and shrubs to their landscape. Selecting the right varieties that suit your specific region, soil, and sunlight conditions is vital. Our tree care experts are here to guide you through this process, offering professional advice and access to native.... (more)
Arbor Day Celebrations
Our founder, Richard Almstead, started the tradition of celebrating Arbor Day over 30 years ago, and we’ve been doing it as an annual event ever since. All our arborists take part in Earth Day and Arbor Day activities in schools, fairs, events, local groups and organizations. We kicked off our Arbor Week celebrations for 2023 at... (more)
ARBOR WEEK CELEBRATIONS @ EARTH DAY FAIR AT RIDGEWOOD, NJ
Our Junior Arborist Station was a big hit with the children, as our experienced tree climbers assisted them safely to the top of a mature tree – to the excitement and wonderment of all! There are always long lines of willing children waiting to participate whenever we host this popular activity.
A Beautiful Lawn in 2024 Begins with our Fall Lawn Services
Fall tends to be overlooked in the cycle of lawn care, but a touch of attention during this season can lay the foundation for a lush lawn come spring. If you haven’t signed up for our Fall Lawn Care Services, please contact your local Almstead Branch Office... (more)
Places to Visit: Roosevelt Island - A Hidden Gem in New York City
Roosevelt Island is a peaceful retreat located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. Known for its lush green parks, breathtaking river views, and fascinating history, Roosevelt Island offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Easily accessible by... (more)
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Letter from the CEO
I trust you're enjoying a wonderful summer. Time is flying, and before we know it, fall will be upon us, ushering in another season and year filled with growth and new opportunities both in our landscapes and in our lives.
Since my last update, we've had an incredibly productive year. Our Arbor Day celebrations were in full swing again this year, reaching the various communities we serve. This tradition, initiated... (more)
Congratulations to Michael Almstead
Congratulations to Michael Almstead (VP of Almstead Tree & Shrub Care) for being elected as the President of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association (CTPA)! The honor was announced at the Annual Meeting of the CTPA on January 19. The CTPA is an educational association dedicated to advancing the care of Connecticut’s trees. Currently, it has over 780 members, of whom approximately three-quarters are licensed arborists. About two-thirds of the licensed arborists in Connecticut are CTPA members.
Stay Safe from Ticks and Mosquitoes
Summer's warmth may bring joy, but it also brings unwanted guests: ticks and mosquitoes. As we transition from summer to fall, it's crucial to ensure your family and pets are safe from these troublesome pests. Almstead offers specialized, organic control solutions for both tick and mosquito populations. Our arborists and technicians are licensed experts in tick and mosquito control and understand how to make your property less hospitable to these dangerous insects. Click here for more information. (more)
Trees to Consider:
Eastern Red Cedar
The Eastern Red Cedar tree (Juniperus virginiana) is more than just a common sight in North America's varied landscapes. This hardy evergreen tree is known for its unique appearance, adaptability, and significant utility. From its role in ecosystems to its applications in landscaping and commercial products, the Eastern Red Cedar continues to be a valuable part of our natural heritage.... (more)
Almstead's 2023 Summer Picnic
A tradition that the Almstead family sponsors every year is the company's Annual Summer Picnic. All employees and their families are invited for a day of fun, food and games. Service Awards celebrating five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five and more years at Almstead are also presented at the picnic. The event was held this year on July 29, at D’Onofrio Park in New Rochelle, NY.
In addition to a fine array of food and beverages, the event featured a caricaturist, water slides, a cotton candy cart, axe throwing, volleyball, as well as other games and activities.
Foreman Sergio Anguiano (New Jersey Branch) received a "25 Years" Service Award which included a plaque, an iPad and a check for $1,000.
Foreman Jose Vargas (New Rochelle Branch) received a "25 Years" Service Award which included a plaque, an iPad and a check for $1,000.
Foreman Gerardo Santiago (New Rochelle Branch) received a "20 Years" Service Award which included a plaque, an Engraved Gold Watch and Presentation Case.
Foreman Carlos Alcantar (New Rochelle Branch) received a "20 Years" Service Award which included a plaque, an Engraved Gold Watch and Presentation Case.
Arborist and Connecticut Branch Manager, Gary Norman received a received a "10 Years" Service Award.
Deborah Mason from our Marketing Department (New Rochelle Corporate Office) received a "5 Years" Service Award.
Brandon Najera (PHC Technician, Hawthorne Branch) received a "5 Years" Service Award.
Many kids stayed in the water slides for most of the day.
The Almstead Family table.
Almstead Picnic 2023.
Almstead Picnic 2023.
Axe Throwing fun at the Almstead 2023 Picnic.
The water slides were a big hit with the kids and kept them cool on a hot summer day.
Almstead Picnic 2023.
Mr. Richard Almstead hit a bullseye in the Axe Throwing game.
L-R: Richard Almstead (Founder), Michael Piper (arborist) and Ken Almstead (CEO)
Almstead Picnic 2023.
Children and adults of all ages played volleyball.
Our field employees compete with each other every year at the Picnic's Throwball Contest (throwing a small ball into an aerial bucket). Prizes were $200, $100 and $50 for the first three top scorers.
It was a beautiful day for outdoor fun, including a game of Corn Hole.
This year's picnic included a caricaturist who kept everyone smiling with his various types of pencil and ink drawings.
New Jersey Branch Manager and Arborist, Ryan Duff, was the referee for the Throwball Contest for our field crew. Competition was stiff for the $200, $100, and $50 cash prizes.
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LOCATIONS:
Lower Westchester County, NY and New York City
58 Beechwood Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10801
914-576-0193
Upper Westchester (North of I-287)
15 Broadway, Hawthorne, NY 10532
914-741-1510
Fairfield County, Connecticut
547 Hope Street, Stamford CT 06907
203-348-4111
Bergen & Passaic Counties, NJ
504 High Mountain Road, North Haledon, NJ 07508
973-636-6711
Contact us for a Free Consultation