Caring for Newly Planted Trees

By Nancy Penrose

A newly planted or transplanted tree can require up to two years or more of proper care. The length of time it takes for the tree to fully establish itself is usually determined by its size. The larger the tree, the more maintenance will be required.

Transplanting Shock

Trees can lose some of their root system when transplanted, which can lead to a condition known as transplant shock. The stress of the replanting can make the tree more vulnerable to weather and soil conditions, as well as pests. It can take several years for some trees to fully recover from the planting. During this period, it is extremely important to inspect the tree on a regular basis, and take whatever actions are necessary to ensure its establishment and growth.

Support

Newly planted or transplanted trees require a bracing or staking system. A newly planted or transplanted tree should be staked for at least a year (two years if you live in a particularly windy area) until the tree is able to re-establish its supporting root system. The staking should allow the tree to move slightly as it is this movement that indicates to the tree that it needs to start growing stabilizing roots. The staking should be checked (and possibly loosened) about every six months to make sure it is not too tight and girdling the trunk.

Water

It is vital a newly planted tree receives sufficient water. The size of the tree, the type of soil the tree was planted in, and drainage in the area will determine how much water is needed. The most efficient and effective method of watering is a ring or two of soaker hose, or drip line on top of the rootball, connected to a battery operated timer. Typically 15-30 minutes of drip per day (during the growing seasons) is sufficient in keeping the rootball consistently moist. Consistent moisture is instrumental in the trees survival in the first two years of its newly planted life. Do not rely on rain to do the deep root watering the tree needs!

Mulch

Mulching may also be needed to help create an ideal growing environment for your tree. In addition to protecting the tree’s roots, mulch inhibits weed growth and helps conserve water. It also improves the health of the soil.

Pruning

Proper maintenance of a newly planted tree will include periodically removing dead leaves, and dead or broken branches. After a year or two, the tree might need to be pruned to ensure its successful establishment and long-term survival. Avoid over-pruning, which can impact the tree’s ability to generate the energy that it needs.

Fertilizer

Fertilization if often beneficial for young trees, and can speed up their growth. If your tree has indicators of a nutrient deficiency, test the soil to determine the best way to treat the problem.

Pests

Trees that have been newly planted are more susceptible to pests such as mites and bark beetles, as well as root diseases. A newly planted tree’s survival will depend on its ability to generate roots. The roots will grow from stored energy in the tree’s leaves, branches and trunk. When monitoring your tree, look for any changes in the plant’s health. Even small changes can impact the tree’s energy-making ability.

If you have questions about the condition of your tree, consult a big trees expert. A professional with landscape trees knowledge and experience can tell you what program needs to be followed when transplanting trees.

Sloping Uneven Floors A Serious Issue In Southern California

Foundation Experts Warn of Issues With Uneven or Sloping Floors In California

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/), a foundation repair and foundation construction specialist company in Southern California, has done some research into the issue of sloping, uneven floors in Southern California. The company found serious possibilities of risk involved where homes had uneven floors. The company urged homeowners toward increased awareness on the dangers and remedies of uneven floors in a home.

The company found that homes with sloping or uneven floors had a number of different causes. Older homes were found more frequently affected. Poorly designed foundation work was found to be one of the major causes. Another common factor found was foundation settlement occurring over a long period of time. Moisture and mold were found to affect homes as well, causing uneven flooring. The company stressed that the problems presented can not only be varied in nature but can often lead to more serious problems later if not addressed.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction Inc., stated: “An uneven floor is a big warning light. It’s not the floor that’s the problem, it’s the foundation problems unseen beneath it that cause the slope. If the foundation is damaged, and if it isn’t noticed early, then the repair is much more costly potentially. To prevent that and to ensure the safety of all of a building’s occupants, we urge homeowners to get an inspection done of a foundation with sloping floors to see if floor leveling is needed.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, 

www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/.

Julian Construction Gives Solutions To Cracked Foundations And Walls

Construction Company Compares Different Methods Of Repair For Horizontal Cracks

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a construction and foundation repair company in the Los Angeles area, has published an article on how to deal with cracks in walls and floors, and the problems presented by allowing these issues to go unhandled. The company stressed that allowing foundation or wall cracks to remain unhandled can cause serious hazards to a home’s foundation.

When foundation cracks have been identified in a home, epoxy injections are one of the often used remedies. Epoxy is known for its toughness, superior adhesion, low shrinkage and resistance to chemicals and water. After the crack has been filled, large staples are placed across the crack for additional support and stabilization. Also used are carbon-fiber Kevlar strips, which have considerable strength and are easy to work with. The two are used in conjunction to repair horizontal cracks in a wall, which if not handled can lead to the collapse of the wall.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “Repairing a home starts with recognizing the danger signs. Cracks like these indicate problems in a foundation, and down the road they can increase in size and cause moisture to penetrate into the concrete foundation. Getting a foundation specialist to inspect the area and do any needed concrete foundation repair can prevent serious safety risks.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/.

Earthquake Preparedness: Online California Homeowner Resources

by Shawn Kyles

Earthquakes occur on a regular basis in California. Over 100 faults in the state produce thousands of quakes each year. The largest fault is the San Andreas Fault, which runs for hundreds of miles up and down California.

Discovered by a UC Berkeley geology professor in 1895, the San Andreas Fault has been responsible for large quakes (above 6.0) occurring in Monterey County approximately every 22 years. The last large quake hit the area in 2004.

In a 2006 earthquake study, geophysicist Yuri Fialko concluded that San Andreas Fault stress levels have again increased, and that the fault is ready for the next “big one,” an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 or higher.

Fialko also noted that large quakes have not occurred in the southern part of the fault (San Bernardino, Riverside and Imperial counties) for over 300 years. The last large quake in Los Angeles County was the magnitude 6.7 Northridge earthquake in 1994, which caused over 60 fatalities, 8,700 injuries, and the structural failure of buildings, parking structures and freeways.

Most Californians are aware of the possible dangers of a large quake, such as ground movement and displacement, flooding and fire. Many state residents have participated in preparedness programs to increase their chances of survival when the big one finally hits. However, it was found in a 2010 California Earthquake Preparedness Survey, that “Californians in high risk areas are not getting ready in proportion to the differential risks they face.”

Also, despite the potential damage that can be caused by a major quake, less than 20% of California homeowners have earthquake insurance. Some believe that if their home made it through the last big quake, it will survive the next. However, according to a Los Angeles Times article, “some respected earthquake researchers are themselves spending money on earthquake retrofitting rather than paying for insurance coverage.”

Earthquake retrofitting makes a structure more resistive to seismic activity. Techniques include house bolting and various structural enhancements for added security and stability. A retrofit can not only minimize earthquake damage, it makes the building safer for occupants.

There are many online resources to help California residents, including homeowners, with earthquake preparedness, including The California Seismic Safety Commission (http://www.seismic.ca.gov/), Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) (http://www.scec.org/) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (http://www.fema.gov/).

The California Seismic Safety Commission has a variety of information on earthquakes, as well as several publications. The Commission researches and investigates earthquakes.

The SCEC, located at the University of Southern California, is an organization of scientists and students with a special focus on Southern California earthquakes. SCEC publications include Seismic Hazards in Southern California and Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country, which contains a comprehensive section on earthquake preparedness. The booklet can be downloaded in both English and Spanish.

There is also a special edition for the San Francisco Bay Area.

The California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) (http://www.calema.ca.gov/Pages/default.aspx) is another organization involved in earthquake preparedness, and is an organizer of The Great California ShakeOut.

To find out if your home is earthquake ready, consult an experienced earthquake preparedness building contractor.

Apartment Rental Business Receives Tax Exemption on Aircraft Purchase

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals Helps Company Get Tax Exemption on Aerostar Airplane

SACRAMENTO, CA: Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, (http://www.aeromarinetaxpros.com/) a vessel and aircraft sales tax specialist firm in northern California, has helped an apartment rental management company in northern California to obtain a tax exemption on the purchase of an Aerostar airplane. The exemption was received from the California Board of Equalization (BOE).

An executive from the company stated: “We are in the rental business. We have mostly apartment buildings. We bought the aircraft to go back and forth to Sedona, which is the location of a bankrupt condominium project that we bought and renovated. It is now operating as a Bed & Breakfast. It is very unusual, and in a beautiful location. We wouldn't own property in Arizona if we couldn't get there fast. I like to fly direct, rather than having to go through Las Vegas and drive. This aircraft is much smoother over the high part of the Sierras than the Bonanza aircraft. This aircraft is an Aerostar. I liked the way Aero & Marine Tax Professionals handled things. Their people were always great on the phone. Every bit of the process was very, very good. I would absolutely recommend them to others.”

Tom Alston, founder of Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, stated: “The case itself went very smoothly. A lot of the people who contact us have already purchased an airplane at some point in the past, and they are generally familiar with having to dealing with the BOE, but they aren’t familiar with the details of the tax codes and so do not know how to avoid sales tax legally. That’s where our expertise is needed to get the job done on getting a tax exemption.”

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals shows purchasers specifically how to avoid aircraft tax and vessel tax in California and to make certain the full value of their next aircraft, vehicle or vessel goes into their pocket--not the government's. They have successfully filed hundreds of tax returns with the California State Board of Equalization. Mr. Alston has also published many articles on sales and use tax. Their blog can be seen at http://aeromarinetaxpros.typepad.com.

(Photo credit: Jack Snell)

READING IN GENRE

By Susan Mary Malone

Does genre fiction possess the merits of, say, Literary fiction?

You’ll get answers across the board. Of course, genre sells hugely. In all the categories and subcategories of Traditional publishing (and self-publishing now as well), loyal readers argue vehemently that what they read tops the charts. Which, of course, genre does. Fantasy of all sorts now holds the top spot (vampires and such having eaten the competition for many years), but Romance still sells, perennially, the most. Although, don’t tell that to Dan Brown! Anyone can manipulate the numbers, but over the years, agents and novel editors know what actually does sell best, and what they need to fill their lists in order to succeed. In fact, the moniker of Mainstream or Literary makes those same professionals’ blood run cold, unless of course the author is already famously successful (and, as a NY editor buddy of mine always says, preferably if they’re dead:).

Many readers tell me they couldn’t get through touted Literary novels—too highbrow, they say. The author is showing off, is another oft-repeated phrase. What the heck was it about? folks ask. Or, why should I work while reading? I want to be entertained.

Of course, the point of a great novel is to entertain. But many readers want more (and have a precious hard time finding that). The devil, as we say, is in the book development.

Full disclosure here: When I read strictly for pleasure, I read Literary. That’s what makes my own heart sing. I want depth and internal conflict and some piece of meaning to this existence. That said, I read widely, and through the genres, as, well, that’s what I do. I keep up with what’s selling to stay abreast of the market. And most times—like many of the folks keep saying—the writing is abysmal. We can all recount a litany of titles off the top of our heads of bestsellers that are cringe worthy. At best. Yet, they sell like cold beer on a hot Texas day.

But sometimes (and when all is perfect), genre accomplishes exactly what Literary does—including that same depth, inherent internal conflicts as well as external ones, providing a clue into the human condition that makes it all worthwhile.

We can all point to many examples as well. One such is J. Nelson Aviance’s Fantasy work, about vampires and werewolves and mages. His recent collection, Three by Moonlight, includes brilliant writing, compelling characters (I’d follow Eyulf the werewolf across eight galaxies), and gripping stories. And this is just a tease for his novel in progress. A young author to watch, Aviance drew me into a genre that, as all who know me can attest, is not something I’d normally pick up for pleasure and insight. But that’s exactly what I found there. And it’s smart—a key ingredient to what I love.

Kevin Don Porter’s Missing is a Mid-Grade Reader, so obviously not something most adults would peruse. But said adults would be missing the boat. This lovely read contains a depth of insights into the human condition that spans generations, while also being laugh-out-loud funny, entertaining, and a gripping Mystery. This young book author not only has a stellar career ahead of him, but is selling well now. Which just warms my heart!

So, is genre fiction as noteworthy as Literary? Mostly not. But exceptions occur all over the place, and to shy away from the different categories is to limit your reading experience. Great books can be found spanning all genres. And of course, that just adds to the riches of reading!

Mold Remediation Guaranteed To 100% Perfect Standard By Company

Building Cleaning Services Promises Effective Mold Remediation To Pro Standard

LOS ANGELES, CA: Building Cleaning Services, (http://buildingcleaningservices.net/), a mold remediation and building cleaning company in the Los Angeles area, has issued a 100% guarantee that their mold remediation process will ensure mold is fully cleaned to inspection standards of independent, air sampling and clearance-testing release. The company issued their guarantee after exhaustive piloting of their procedure and more than a decade of experience in the field.

Building Cleaning Services is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, Inc. (IICRC) to perform mold remediation and other building cleaning remedies. The IICRC is a certification and standard-setting non-profit organization which oversees the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries, servicing more than 25 countries. According to the IICRC: “Certified technicians and companies are respected by their customers and industry peers. They receive training in the newest techniques and information on the latest products. Increased knowledge, industry training and education helps build confidence in themselves and their services, which translates into increased sales and processing efficiency.”

The company fully guarantees its mold remedial process for buildings and homes, as they assist property and home owners as well as businesses. One customer from Encino stated: “I had a great experience with Building Cleaning Services from start to finish during the mold removal process at my home. They were very thorough in their evaluation and I never felt like they were trying to jerk me around to make a buck. I always felt like they were upfront and honest about everything, which goes a long way in my book. Garrison was the project manager and he was happy to answer the thousands of questions that I had, and the two gentlemen who actually did the work were kind and courteous, and they also did a great job of cleaning up afterward. The project was actually finished a bit earlier than planned. I can't say enough good things about BCS!”

Building Cleaning Services' other reviews on Yelp can be seen at http://www.yelp.com/biz/building-cleaning-services-glendale

BCS provides water damage handling and mold removal services for the Greater Los Angeles area, and other areas of Southern California. Established in 1997, they have over a decade of experience as a company with fast service, high professionalism and work ethic. BCS is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration and Environmental Testing & Technology. To learn more, visit http://www.BuildingCleaningServices.net, or call 818-953-7100 or e-mail bcs@buildingcleaningservices.net.

Susan Mary Malone to Speak At Lexicon Writers Conference

Developmental Editor Susan Mary Malone to Speak on "Viewpoint" in Writing at Writers Conference in Dallas
 
DALLAS, TX: Susan Mary Malone, (http://www.maloneeditorial.com/) developmental editor and published author, will be speaking at the Lexicon Writers Conference in Denton, Texas, north of Dallas. The conference will be July 12-14 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Denton.

The Lexicon Writers Conference was established to assist, promote and educate writers in all genres and fields, including fiction, non-fiction, screenplay writing, graphic novels and others. Published and unpublished writers attend, and one and all meet with established authors, literary agents, publishers, editors, and marketing experts.
 
Ms. Malone's topic will be "Viewpoint: The Hub Around Which All Great Writing Revolves.”
 
Ms. Malone stated, “I think writers’ conferences like the Lexicon Writers Conference are important as a way for writers to find out how the writing and publishing business works. Because of the emergence of self-publishing, many new writers today think it is very easy to put out something and be successful. Well it is easier than ever to put something out, but being successful is quite another story. It is still more important than ever to consult developmental editors, proofreaders, book cover designers, and other experts to ensure that you put out a great product. If you don’t put out something great, you will likely not be very successful. But with a lot of work and the right assistance, you can do it.”

Susan Mary Malone has worked as a freelance editor since 1993, with a BS in Political Science and minors in English and Journalism. Her client list includes NY Times Bestsellers, Essence Bestsellers and books featured in Publishers Weekly. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction herself. She participates as a speaker in literary conferences such as the Harriett Austin Writer's Conference (at the University of Georgia), the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, the SouthWest Writer's Conference, the East Texas Writer’s Guild, and the Lexicon Writers Conference, among others. Her full biography and featured list of published authors can be viewed at http://www.maloneeditorial.com

Big Trees Inc Saves 75 Year Old Tree

Tree Transplanting Company Saves Japanese Maple From Being Destroyed

SEATTLE, WA: Big Trees Inc., (http://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree transplanting and tree nursery company in the Seattle area, recently salvaged a large Japanese Maple tree from a construction site. The building contractor notified Big Trees Inc. regarding the tree and the tree transplanting company was able to successfully remove the tree from the site and safely relocate it back to their nursery.

Big Trees Inc. identified the tree as a large Japanese Maple red ‘Dissectum’, and estimates it’s age to be anywhere from 75-100 years old. The tree was on a property which was being demolished, and no arrangements had been made for the care of the tree before the builder contacted Big Trees Inc. After surveying the site, Big Trees Inc. determined the correct method to dig up and then transport the tree off-site. The company then relocated the tree to their nursery and successfully planted the tree. The Japanese Maple is doing fine and the company looks forward to finding it a new home.

Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees Inc., stated: “It’s always difficult moving an older tree, particularly moving trees in the summer, but the move went very well. We’re happy no harm came to the tree and that it can find a new home, particularly since it’s such a large specimen of this kind and very mature. Still, it has a long life ahead of it and it will be a joy to see it eventually relocated into a new permanent home.”

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc. (http://www.bigtreesupply.com), located in Snohomish, WA, in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only can deliver young trees but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at http://www.bigtreesupply.com/blog/

Installing Drywalls

by Shawn Kyles

Drywall was invented by the U. S. Gypsum Company in 1916, which still exists today and remains one of the top producers of the product. It was first sold as fireproof tiles before being sold as a single layer of gypsum in between two sheets of heavy paper.

Gypsum is a sulfate mineral that looks like white sand and contains large amounts of crystalline water. Gypsum beds come from lakes, sea water, and hot springs, as well as volcanic vapors. One of the largest beds of gypsum in the U.S. is located in New Mexico.

After the gypsum has been mined, it is brought to factories for processing, where it is mixed with additives and turned into a paste. The paste is then spread onto paper and cooked in ovens, which dry out the boards.

Before drywall was invented, buildings were constructed using plaster, which was applied in layers over wood chips. When the plaster dried it hardened to form walls and ceilings. Installation and repairs were often extremely difficult and took a lot of time due to the fact that many layers of plaster often needed to be applied and each coat took a long time to dry.

Because drywall was less expensive than plaster, it initially had a poor reputation and was rarely used by builders. World War II brought about a rapid increase in the use of drywall because it was cheap and easy to work with. Drywall also made it possible to build structures faster, which became important during the war.

Following World War II, drywall dominated the building marketing. Today it has replaced plaster in home construction.

A standard drywall sheet is 4’ x 8’, with 10-foot long and 12-foot long pieces also available. The drywall used for walls in generally ½ inch thick, and the drywall used for ceilings is 5/8 inch thick.

These days there are many different types of drywall, including square edged sheets, taper-edged sheets, moisture resistant drywall, soundproof sheets, fire-resistant drywall and foil-back drywall, which is typically used in cold climates.

After drywall has been cut and hung, it must be finished. The finishing process involves applying drywall tape, various layers of mud and sanding. To being with, joint compound is spread into each seam. Then, drywall tape is laid down on top of the compound. Another two coats of mud is then applied; the block coat and the skim coat. After the mud dries, any bulges or tape showing on the surface are sanded.

Although drywall is generally used to construct walls and ceilings, it can also be used for design and architectural features. It is valued for its durability and fire-resistance, in addition to its low cost, and ease of installation.

If you are planning a room addition, a general contractor in your area can provide the expertise you will need to ensure your project is a success. If you need to make repairs to your walls or ceiling, it is best to talk to a contractor with experience in home foundations and foundation repairs. Many times structural damage can be caused by foundation problems.

Another Susan Mary Malone Author Client to Be Published

Randy Mitchell's New Book "Sons in the Clouds" Set For Publication

DALLAS, TX: Developmental editor and author Susan Mary Malone, (http://www.maloneeditorial.com/) will this month see another of her author clients published by a traditional house. This now totals over 40 of Malone's author clients published by traditional publishers. “Sons In The Clouds” is due out in July 2013, by publisher TJT Designs.

The novel, a romance, focuses on two navy pilots and their struggle out of a deadly POW camp during the Vietnam war; it also focuses on the love of the two women they leave behind and must find their way back to. Publisher TJT Designs will print and distribute the book, which will be available on shelves in bookstores as well as online.

Susan Mary Malone stated: “I wish the best for Randy. He’s written a beautiful work that he should be proud of as his debut novel. We’ll see much more of him in the future. This is one of the defining moments in a writer’s life, when he crosses into publication as a professional author. The book itself demonstrates so much feeling, I can only imagine what Randy is feeling now as we near the publication date.

Susan Mary Malone has worked as a freelance editor since 1993, with a BS in Political Science and minors in English and Journalism. Her client list includes NY Times Bestsellers, Essence Bestsellers and books featured in Publishers Weekly. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction herself. She participates as a speaker in literary conferences such as the Harriett Austin Writer's Conference (at the University of Georgia), the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, the SouthWest Writer's Conference, the East Texas Writer’s Guild, and the upcoming Lexicon Conference among others. Her full biography and featured list of published authors can be viewed at http://www.maloneeditorial.com