Home & Garden

Managing Water Use at Home During Drought in Connecticut

Despite the fact that we get about 48 inches of precipitation annually, we still can experience periods that are classified as drought here. Although it can be said that drought is part of our natural cycle here in Connecticut, higher global temperatures have impacted our precipitation patterns. Over the last century, our annual precipitation totals […]

Did you know how good Squash is for you?

Did you know Squash Is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber? As the temperature cools, it is the perfect time to explore the vibrant world of late season squashes. These nutrient packed vegetables offer a multitude of flavors with countless cooking possibilities. Here, we will share some facts, storage tips, delicious recipes […]

Invasive Plant Factsheet Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), native to China, grows quickly and can ultimately reach up to 80-100’ in height. Tree-of-heaven was first introduced into the U.S., in the Philadelphia area, in 1784. It is particularly invasive in urban landscapes and establishes quickly. The plant is resistant to pollution and can tolerate very poor soils. Tree-of-heaven is very common in the Midwest, lower northeast, as well as the west and southwest coast. Well-established tree-of-heaven stands are only eliminated through repeated monitoring and control efforts. Initial treatments often only reduce the root systems, making follow-up measures necessary.

Managing Water Use at Home During Drought in Connecticut

If I went to the desert southwest and told them that I was concerned about drought here in Connecticut, I would probably get laughed out of the room! Despite the fact that we get about 48 inches of precipitation annually, we still can experience periods that are classified as drought. The purpose of this fact sheet is to provide recommendations for residential water users to prepare for drought conditions. The primary focus will be on private wells.

Jumping Worms

While most earthworms are not native to the United States., many earthworm species provide benefits to urban soils (those in landscapes, lawns and forests) by helping to improve the porousness of the soil, which improves drainage and aeration. Concern has grown over the last decade over several worm species, predominantly of the Amynthas spp., that are reported to cause soil damage, significantly changing its texture and composition. ‘Jumping worms’ is the common name for several similar-looking species.

Invasive Plant Factsheet: Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

The Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) is an invasive, deciduous shrub or small tree. This densely branched plant can grow up to 20 feet and up to 30 of leaves. The Autumn olive is a fast grower and prolific seed producer. While roots are capable of fixing nitrogen in the soil, Autumn olive out-competes and displaces native shrubs. Autumn olive, native to China, Japan, and Korea, is found in the U.S. from Maine, south to northern Florida, west to Nebraska, with scattered infestations in the Northwest U.S. It was introduced into the U.S. in the 1830s, for erosion control and as a windbreak, and for its showy foliage, flowers and berries.

Invasive Plant Factsheet: Common Reed (Phragmites australis)

Phragmites australis is an aggressive, robust perennial grass, which creates dense infestations. It is easily identified by its height (five to thirteen feet) and feathery flowers, which appear in June. Phragmites creates dense monocultures in freshwater marshes and wetlands, as well as along river edges and roadsides. It is common to brackish (slightly saline) environments and disturbed sites. Its salt tolerance allows it to persist where few other species can survive.

Why are Maple Leaves Turning Brown and Falling Early?

Anthracnose species are just some of the fungal diseases that affect many plants, especially those under stress. When maple trees are infected with anthracnose, one of the impacts is brown leaves during the fall.