Arboretum Certification

We moved from a high-rise building (22nd floor) in Downtown Los Angeles.  The "city lights" view was incredible!  However, the air quality was horrible and watching thick layers of smog build on the horizon was depressing.  We were entombed in the tall glass castle, but we were nature girls.  So we started planning our escape.  

 

We bought our ranch in Temecula Wine Country in an effort to reconnect with nature.   We have been the protectors of the Steel Rose trees for almost eight years now.  When we first bought the home, we felt helpless when everyone that we called to service the trees insisted that they were dead and should be cut down.   We reluctantly acquiesced, but we immediately regretted our decision.   We watched our persimmon tree, our lemon tree, our (sweet as sugar) fig tree and several Italian Cypress trees, and olive trees fall to our ignorance.   We felt helpless, clueless and really guilty!

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And then we met Chauncey McCalpine, an amazing arborist!  He walked us through every imaginable disease that might inflict the trees on our property.  That education empowered us!  We realized that the previous owner had imported trees that struck his fancy, from around the world.  He taught us how to treat the various diseases that threatened our trees.   

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We stuttered through our tree care regimen, called Chauncey less and less, stood over his shoulder as he treated trees and even videotaped his magic! 

Eventually, we spread our wings and completely assumed the arborist duties.   Fast-forward to arbor bliss!  We are proud to boast more than 200 woody plants and trees!  Lots of work, but the air so fresh and clean.  There is always a shady spot under a tree. The birds are very grateful!

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Here we are, ready to take the plunge and apply for arboretum certification.   We are so ready to accept the responsibility and the honor of arboretum certification.  At the time of this writing, 10/7/2023, we are resubmitting our final application.  If we are approved, we will see you at the tree dance!  Wish us luck!

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