Fall is the time to plant trees

Plant a tree with the family.

Submitted by Guest Blogger, Matt Silkey with Tiger Tree Service. 918-288-7835

I am often asked when is the best time in Tulsa to plant a tree. There is a lot of information on how-to plant a tree and much of it depends on where you're planting it and what kind of tree it is. But let me specifically address when to plant trees in Oklahoma.

Essentially, any time of year except summer is a good time for planting (the heat in the summer presents too great a threat to young vulnerable trees).

However, I have seen that the best time, especially for amateurs, for planting trees in Oklahoma is in the fall. Why? Summer is a bad choice, because the weather is too hot and dry. Intense heat is a major enemy of trees. Winter is too unpredictable and can cause the ground to freeze, which could damage a young tree and it's root system. For some areas of the United States, experts would say that Spring is a good time... but they don't live in Oklahoma, where we can go from snow to hot to drought in 30 days.

WHEN TO PLANT...
I like the Fall, as soon as it starts to cool down. Then when our winter kicks in YOU MUST CONTINUE TO WATER your new tree.  Water your new tree as long as the air and soil temperature is above 40 degrees and I suggest that you water at mid-day so it will have plenty of time to soak in before possible freezing at night. Newly planted trees are most susceptible to winter drought because people forget to water in the winter. It's best to allow the water to soak into the soil slowly to a depth of 12 inches. It will need moisture to prevent root damage.

Make it a fun experience for your whole family this Fall. If you need help or advice just call me, Matt Silkey, Tiger Tree Service. 918-288-7835

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This article was submitted by Guest Blogger, Matt Silkey of Tiger Tree Service.

8 Back-to-School-Family-Traditions

I'm no spring chicken, but I still get a wonderful feeling when school starts.

I remember the special one-on-one time with Mom to go buy new shoes and clothes. When we got home, I would spread out all my new mix and match clothing on my bed and wait for Dad to come home.

When Dad walked in the kitchen door, I would rush at him talking a hundred miles an hour about everything we bought. At dinner time, I could barely eat. I was so excited, because after dinner the fashion show started.

As soon as Dad finished and was settled into his chair, I modeled all my new clothes for him and he told me that I was beautiful.

Your experience might not be anything like mine, but think about
what made this time of year special for you and use those memories to create fun "Back-to-School-Traditions" for your kids. Start the school year off on a positive note.

In the picture, you see my grandson, Oscar, meeting his new teacher. His mom always takes special pictures on the first day of school. (Isn't he adorable?)

Here are some fun "School is starting" traditions to start:

1. Have special one-on-one shopping time with your child.
2. Take everyone out for ice cream after the first day of school.
3. Take pictures by a favorite tree, so you can see how much the kids grow.
4. Buy a new lunch box every year.
5. Write your child a note of encouragement and love.
6. Write "I love you." on their hand, so they feel loved all day.
7. Have a special breakfast, like blueberry pancakes, on the first day of school.
8. When your child comes home from the first day, record a goofy video of her telling you about her first day. 

Children will remember special back-to-school family traditions forever. I know, because I do and my first day at kindergarten was 59 years ago.

What Makes For a Good Neighbor?

What makes a neighbor more than just the guy next door? I like to think that a GOOD neighbor is someone who cares and who has your best interests at heart.

Here is a short list of characteristics of a good neighbor.

THIS IS A BAD NEIGHBOR!

Good Neighbors...

1. Introduce themselves. Whether your neighbors are new or have been there awhile, walk over and introduce yourself. It's nice to know who lives next door.
2. Consider their neighbor's lifestyle. Get to know your neighbors. Are they retired? Do they go to bed early? Are there young children that might throw a ball in your yard? Or teenagers that are new drivers? Consider how you can be a better neighbor to them. 
3. Control pets. If you take care of your pets, they might take care of theirs. Pick up after your dogs and keep them on a leash when walking. Be considerate. Is there a young child or a baby next door that is sleeping? Don't let your dogs bark.
4. Practice parking etiquette. When you park your vehicle on the street, consider where your neighbors driveway is and their mailbox. Park in front of your home and not theirs. Avoid slamming doors late at night.
5. Alert neighbors to events & parties. Are you having a baby shower? Let your neighbors know that there will be extra cars on the street and thank them for any inconvenience that the extra cars may cause. Having a swim party in the pool in the back yard? Again, let your neighbors know and be careful about loud music out doors. Better yet, invite the neighbors!
6. Keep their yards tidy. Your weeds are not only unsightly, but they can spread to your neighbor's yard. Mow your lawn and work on keeping the weeds under control. Keep your bushes trimmed,  even if you'll never win Yard-Of-The-Month.  When spraying pesticides, be aware of your neighbor's gardens, their children and pets.
7. Control fires and grills. Of course, you don't want to set the neighborhood on fire, but also, be mindful of which way the smoke from your fire is blowing. Are your neighbors outside getting all the smoke while you roast marshmallows with the kids?
8. Put trash cans out on the right day. Only put the trash cans out on collection day and try to contain it well. Garbage can attract insects and animals. Then, bring it back onto your property as soon as you can. 
9. Talk to their neighbors. Communication is the solution to most problems. You can short-circuit many mis-understandings by periodically talking to your neighbors. Let them know that if you or your family do anything that disturbs them to let you know. Exchange phone numbers and email addresses.
10. Stay alert to suspicious behavior and strangers. Even if you don't have a "neighborhood watch", you can still keep an eye open for suspicious behavior in your neighborhood. But don't be a hero. Your best weapon is your phone. Dial 911.
11. Are nice. Give assistance when needed. Nice neighbors enhance everyone's lifestyle. Consider picking up your neighbor's newspaper when they travel or help them shovel snow from the drive in the winter. Offer them some ice-cold lemonade on a hot day.

This Good Neighbor article was sponsored by Nichtech roofing. Call and ask for Charles for all your roofing needs. He's a great guy and I highly recommend him. We also want to thank Nichtech Roofing for advertising in the Chimney Hills Estates newsletter.