One of the reasons is because I am concentrating on a web design business.

I am proud of the content on this blog and wish to do more with it soon enough.

However, my love for this beautiful island is still here and I wanted to share some new Long Island related content with you.

I have posted the following article:  28 Photos Of Natural Long Island, (28 of my favorite photos “vintage-ized” to look even cooler! )

The photos include inspirational gardens and estates such as as Old Wesbury Gardens,  Planting Fields Arboretum, various North & South Shore beach scenes and Fall Harvest scenes.

Just maybe this will spark a re-birth of content on this blog, which even though neglected, still receives a fair amount of traffic.  I guess people like the content!

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I am teaching in Port Washington next Tuesday, June 9th, 2010 and  want to extent an invitation to readers of this web site to attend with a discount.  We will be covering topics such as whole grains, good fats, storage techniques and how to pick great ingredients. Here are the details (click the picture to see a larger flyer):

Healthy Cooking For Busy People
June 9th, 2010 | 7-9PM
$30 (mention this blog and receive $5/off)
To register, call 516.448.2505

Email me if you have questions (david[at]ligrows.com)

Thanks for your interest, David

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Zinnia will make you happy!

Who wouldn’t want this beauty in the garden?  Zinnia is easy to start from seed and once they get a’bloomin, they can brighten up anyone’s day.

If you are a gardener that is looking for a beautiful flowering plant and is easy to start from seed, Zinnia is your choice.

I grew it from seed a few years back and was amazed with how easy it was to grow.  It seemed to hold up to the elements real well, a strong and solid plant once it gets going.  In mid summer, just when you think the blooms have come to a peak, it sends out more and more blooms, especially if you deadhead the old flowers and consistently take cuttings.

Bloom Time: Summer until frost!

• Comes in a variety of bright colors
• Great for cutting and bringing indoors with solitary and double blooming long-stemmed flowers.
• Prefer full sun and good drainage
• Practice deadheading for continuous blooms
• Fertilize every 4-6weeks with compost tea or other organic fertilizer
• Blooms from summer until frost!
• Can grow up to 5 feet depending on variety
• Bird’s, Bee’s & Butterfly’s (especially) like em!

I buy my Zinnia seeds from Seeds of Change here

Zinnia is native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico and grew wild in deserts.  Hybridizing has given us all the lovely varieties of color but the original color was purple.

Find more information about Zinnia

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It was inspiring to me so I decided to republish it here with all three videos:

Cooking Up A Story: Food News

This 3-part series of interviews with Dr. Vandana Shiva about the future of food is one of the most contentious, revolutionary, profound, and important discussions of any, we have had to date on Food News. This is more than about the safety of biotechnology; it’s about the ability of all of us to have a choice of the foods that we eat, and for our farmers to be able to freely use their own seeds, and grow food in the manner that they choose. In developing countries like India, biotechnology introduces higher costs of production to the farmers, and makes them highly dependent upon a small number of companies to purchase their seeds, and required chemical inputs. Increasingly, farmers whose crops fail to produce anticipated yields are propelled into a cycle of debt that cause many to commit suicide. Food sovereignty of developing countries; ecological preservation of the biodiversity existing in nature; the ability of nations to feed their own people; the preservation of local culture entwined with past farming traditions; and the right of a people to have access to their own seeds, and to choose the traits they wish to propagate, these are all issues that require careful thought and discussion.

In part 1, Dr. Vandana Shiva explains the science of biotechnology (genetic engineering), and the dangers it poses to the world’s food supplies. Dr. Shiva is a scientist (a physicist by training); she is also a social activist, an environmentalist who believes in ecological sustainability (preserving biodiversity), and an internationally recognized leader in the sustainable food movement. As a woman, and as a pioneer, she has taken her stand among the peasant farmers of India, and indigenous people throughout the world as a defender of women’s and of nature’s rights.

In part two, Dr. Vandana Shiva expresses her strong views about the problems of hunger in the developing world; the struggle of farmers in India; biotechnology, and her prescription for the type of farming model she believes the world needs.

Dr. Vandana Shiva, explains the science of biotechnology (genetic engineering), and the dangers it poses to the world’s food supplies. Dr. Shiva is a scientist, an environmental activist, and an internationally recognized leader in the sustainable food movement.

Dr. Vandana Shiva founded the Research for Science, Technology, and Ecology, (RFSTE) organization, inspired by her earlier involvement with the Chipko movement. In 1973, in a mountainous region in the Himalayas, women villagers, in heroic and desperate fashion, clung to the body of trees to protest against their forest being decimated by contractors for the State’s Forest Department. The entire ecology of the region, and thus the local economy of these villagers, depended upon preserving the integrity of their forest. The eventual success of this self-organized environmental movement to protect their own natural resources from exploitation, became a (non-violent) model for future environmental activism throughout the world.

In this final installment, Dr. Vandana Shiva takes us back to the role of organic farming, and to the organic farmer who she believes embodies the best scientists of our time. For Dr. Shiva, as a scientist herself, and a longtime environmental activist, it’s understanding nature and working within its laws that produces peace, prosperity, and a sustainable future. The seed of an organism is the embodiment of life itself; of hope and of survival. The notion that a seed can be owned by a corporation (through a patent), is a power too great to bestow upon any private or public entity. As a culmination of what Dr. Shiva has discussed in her other interviews, she is hopeful that it is not too late for people to stand up to the large corporations that drive our global food system, and to make personal choices that promote local and more sustainable food production.

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Check out this video by Serious Eats (a foodie blog not to be missed).

The Green and Farmers Markets around New York City are a great way to get food direct from the farmer.

Why is this good?

• You are getting food that is fresher than the alternative (unless you own your own farm of you have a big enough garden to feed yourself and your family).
• You are supporting local farmers (they receive 100% of the profit this way) and allows family farms to stay in business.
• With weekly sales, farmers can harvest their produce at the peak of flavor
• You get a large selection of quality products
• Forms a bond between farmer and consumer, builds community.

New York City is a good market for farmers due to the population alone and therefore you get a larger amount of farmers from all over the New York area.  Long Island is well represented with 12 Farms on Greenmarkets List of Farmers.

Resources for New York City’s Farmers Markets:

Greenmarket Farmers Markets

Local Harvest Farmers Markets

Farmers Market Federation of New York

A Few Resources for Long Island Farmers Markets:

Nassau County Farmers Markets (Farmers Market Federation of New York)

Suffolk County Farmers Markets (Farmers Market Federation of New York)

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Using Native Plants in your landscape is a win-win for you and the environment.  Here are the top ten reasons to use native plants in your landscape:

1. Once Established, Native Plants Require Little Care and Maintenance
2. Native Plants Save Money on Landscaping Cost
3. Native Plants Are Pest and Disease Resistant
4. Once Established, Native Plants Require No Watering
5. Once Established, Native Plants Require No Fertilization (Or Pesticides)
6. Native Plants Survive Harsh Winters and Hot Dry Summers
7. Native Plants Provide Wildlife with Food and Protection
8. Native Plants Help Reduce Erosion To a Minimum (Good For Shorelines)
9. Native Plants Are Non-Invasive
10. Native Plants Look Like They Belong in the Landscape (Gets Us In Touch With Our Surroundings)

About Native Plants:

Native plants can be an overworked gardeners best friend.  They will thrive without much care, surviving the cold winters and hot summers, and are disease and pest resistant! These species have worked for thousands of years to get used to the growing conditions of the surrounding area and are now ready for you to utilize their years of evolution.

You may even be so bold to replace your lawn with all native plants. No Mowing!

Natural landscapes contribute positively to the overall quality of the environment by improving air, water, and soil quality while providing much-needed wildlife habitat (attract butterfly’s and birds).  These plants provide the best overall food sources for wildlife, while requiring less fertilizer, less water, and less effort in controlling pests. Over time this translates to less cost to maintain a garden.

How To Use Native Plants In Your Home Garden:

Use them as you would any other exotic plant.  It is suggested they be planted in groupings paired with other native plants.  For example, Thomas F. Paterson suggests Big leaf and variegated forms of Hosta with Cinnamon Fern (The bold dark green foliage and the light green delicate fronds) or Epidmedium and Pink shell azaleas (The contrast of the light green groundcover and delicate flowers of an upright accent).

Common Themes Include:

Layering: Large trees placed in the back of the landscape. As you work toward the front of the landscape, low-growing species are included. This creates a feeling of a larger space and allows for the best viewing and enjoyment of the variety of species. EInclude evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and groundcovers or perennials.

Clustering of Like Species: To create a more natural aesthetic, several plants of similar species are planted together in “drifts” or clusters.

Creating Diversity: Include at least ten different species to create a more interesting landscape and attract a diversity of wildlife. The plants provide food and shelter to a wide variety of wildlife species, Evergreen and deciduous species alike.

Constructed Environments: Lawns, patios or paths to show examples of how plants can be landscaped around constructed features.

Where to Get Them:

You can start your own seed, get them from a nursery, or find them in the wild. As a practical matter, you may find that there are not enough local seed sources to fill the demand from gardeners looking for native seeds. As a rule of thumb, buy plants or seeds from garden centers or nurseries with seed sources that originated as close as possible to the area where you want to plant them. Check with your local nurseries and if they don’t have native plants, request they order some.

We will be starting a list of nurseries that carry native plants.  If you know of or are a nursery that carries native plants, send and email to david[at]ligrows.com with the nursery contact information.  Make the subject of the email “native plant nursery entry”.

Native Plant Restoration Projects/Organizations on Long Island:

Restoring an ecosystem helps the land to regain the balance of native plants that were originally found on the site prior to European settlement. By removing exotic plants that have moved in and sometimes taken over an area, we allow for the conditions that let the variety of native plants, and the birds and animals which depend on them, flourish in balance. Once restored and properly maintained, the diverse web of plants and animals will remain stable for generations to come. – Quote Taken From the FAQ section – EPA Site – Native Plants.

There are many hardworking people dedicated to restoring ecosystems, slowing erosion and cleaning our water right here in Long Island:

Long Island Native Grass Initiative (LINGI)

Long Island’s flora must endure weather extremes that cause erratic cycles of frost and thaw. The winds can be severe and salty, and much of the soil on the island is dry and sandy. Conditions on Long Island are unique, and restoration of its natural areas must accommodate its harsh environment.

The most cost and time-effective renewal projects incorporate the use of seeds and plants that have, over thousands of years, become genetically programmed to withstand these difficult environmental factors.

Native America

Long Island based organization dedicated to the reintroduction of native plant and animal species

The Long Island Sound Study

The Long Island Sound Study is a partnership of federal, state, and local government agencies, private organizations, and educational institutions working together to restore and protect Long Island Sound.

Suffolk County Government – Suffolk County Water and Land Invasive Species Advisory Board

Suffolk County continues to be a leader in invasive species control policies and funding — the need to keep waters open for fishing, boating and swimming, our lands walkable, and our natural areas rich in biodiversity is critical for our county’s future.

Long Island Invasive Species Management Area (LIISMA)

The Long Island Invasive Species Management Area (LIISMA) is a voluntary association of public and private land managers working together to prevent the spread of invasive species.

The Nature Conservancy – Long Island

From the Central Pine Barrens to the waters of the Great South Bay, with your help we can keep Long Island protected for nature and for people. Become a volunteer with The Nature Conservancy ( a wonderful organization ) here.

Internet Resources for New York/Long Island Native Plant Information:

Greenbelt Native Plant Center : New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

Our mission is to provide native plants and seeds from local plant populations in support of the restoration and management of many of the City’s most valuable natural areas.

Fort Pond Native Plants

Fort Pond Native Plants in Montauk, Long Island, New York, began as a vision of James Grimes many years ago. He saw the need for a place where one could find native and less common, worthy plant material, a place where you could learn and come to appreciate unique approaches to gardening and landscaping.

Peconic Estuary Program

There are an ambitious 340 management tasks included in the CCMP; priority topics include Brown Tide, nutrients, habitat and living resources, pathogens, toxic pollutants, and critical lands protection.

NY Times – In the Region/Long Island; Native Plants Are Increasing in Popularity

THE use of native plants in landscapes and gardens has increased markedly on Long Island in recent years, commercial growers say, and the change is likely to continue as regulations increasingly require the use of native perennials and as more species are marketed….

Healthy Nassau – Suozzi and Denenberg take to Canoes to Eradicate Invasive Aquatic Plants

As part of his ongoing Healthy Nassau initiative, Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi and Legislator Dave Denenberg (D-Merrick) were joined by The Nature Conservancy and a group of volunteers to remove invasive plants from Mill Pond Park in Wantagh.

Drosera – Native Plant Enthusiast – New York City Area

DROSERA brings fresh ideas to the understanding of nature through culture, with a focus on urban ecological issues, especially native flora. We strive to provide a home to something endangered – our sense of place and our understanding of the natural world by connecting New Yorkers to their innate love of nature.

Ferns and Native Plants in the Natural Landscape for Long Island

If gardening is reputed to be the No. 1 leisure activity in America today, we better be ready for those people who definitely want this “natural look,” woodland gardens, gardens that attract birds and wildlife, low-maintenance perennials, plantings that “care for themselves.”

Lady Bird Johnson’s Wildflower Center (University of Texas at Austin) – New York Wildflower List

First as the National Wildflower Research Center and later as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, this special place exists to introduce people to the beauty and diversity of wildflowers and other native plants.

Native Plant Sale To Benefit LI Native Grass Initiative

The use of native plants in landscaping and restoration activities on Long Island is being increasingly encouraged by local government, environmental organizations and scientists, as the impact of invasive species and development on biodiversity are understood.

List of Native Plant Species in Long Island:

Native plants range from trees to grasses, shrubs to wildflowers, ferns to hostas.  There are just too many to list.  But we have scoured out a few lists from our friends at the Cornell Cooperative Extension to get you started.

Compliments of Nassau County Cornell Cooperative Extension, here is a small list of suggested native plants for the Nassau County Long Island home gardener:

• Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) Blooms yellow in late autumn
• Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) Sun or light shade, seaside hardy
• Spice Bush (Clethra alnifolia) Blooms late summer, tolerates wet or dry areas
• Shadbush (Amelanchier sp.) Early white flower, contrasting gray bark in winter
• Lowbush Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) Shady woodland shrub
• Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) 15’ tall shrub, acid well-drained soils, pink flowers
• Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Near ponds and wet area
• Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens) Evergreen, low grower
• Fringed Bleeding Heart (Dicentra eximia) Plant in shade among wildflowers and ferns
• Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) Changes from fiddlehead to cinnamon stick
• Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) Combines well in a border
• Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum) Delicate – looks well with rough textures
• Polypody rock Fern (Polypodium vulgare) Low growing, attractive in a rock garden
• American Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) Seeds itself, long blooming period
• Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) Early bloomer, good ground cover foliage
• Jack in The Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) Exotic, but native, unique specimen plant
• Yellow and Snow trillium (Trillium luteum, T. grandiflora) Naturalizes as a ground cover
• Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica) Good contrast under rhododendrons, self seeds
• Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) Early flowering, wet areas. Beware not to purchase (Lesser Celandine), a look alike that often has the same common name, but is very invasive.
• Crested Iris (Iris versicolor) Near rocks, dependable
• Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) seeds itself, long blooming
• Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) Establishes a stand, best planted on a slope to see flowering.
• Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) Deep green ground cover
• False Solomon’s Seal (Smilacina racemosa) Woodland groundcover
• Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) Attracts butterflies, orange flower
• New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae) Clusters of lavender, pink or violet flowers
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) Rich purple flowers throughout the summer
• Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia subtomentosa) Bright yellow flowers all summer
• Blue Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis) Lavender to blue flowers typical of the pea family [Check out our Perrenial Flower Profile for Lupine]
• Penstemons (Penstemon species) Spike like flowers in red, yellow, white and blue
• Evening Primrose (Oenothera sp.) Full sun, well drained soil

Compliments of Suffolk County Cornell Cooperative Extension, here are some suggested native plants for the Suffolk County Long Island home gardener (by Tom F. Paterson):

Some of these planting combinations I particularly would recommend are:

• Allegheny foam flower and Maidenhair fern — a rough textured groundcover with a delicate lacy foliage of fern.
• Big leaf and variegated forms of Hosta with cinnamon fern. The bold dark green foliage and the light green delicate fronds.
• Epimedium and Pink shell azaleas. The contrast of the light green groundcover and delicate flowers of an upright accent.
• Liriope and a stump. A bold dark green grass-like leaf and the character of a grotesque dead object.
• Mayapple and Royal ferns. A stand of light green elephant ear foliage and a tall regal delicate foliate.

The following is a list of some of my favorite ferns and perennials, ones which have continued to be successful, both in production and use in the landscape.

• Cinnamon fern — (Osmunda cinnamomea) Fabulous changes in stages of development from fiddle head to cinnamon stick. Wonderful for naturalizing large areas, in light shade or shade.
• Royal fern–(Osmunda regalis) Different — not invasive –combines well in a border.
• Maidenhair fern — (Adiantum pedatum) Delicate — looks well with rough textures, stone walls, etc.
• Christmas fern — (Polystichum acrostichoides) Tolerates almost any conditions, evergreen.
• Polypody rock fern — (Polypodium vulgare) Low — unusual – need not grow out of or on top of a rock.
• American columbine — (Aquilegia canadensis) Seeds itself – long blooming period.
• Bloodroot — (Sanguinaria canadensis) Early bloomer. Best white.Good groundcover foliage.
• Jack In The Pulpit — (Arisaema sp.) Interesting. Wet spots.
• Yellow & Snow trillium — (Trillium luteum, T. grandiflora) Naturalize groundcovers.
• Virginia Bluebells — (Mertensia virginica) Under plantings for rhododendron. Long blooming, seeds itself.
• Marsh Marigold — (Caltha palustris) Early flowering, wet areas.
• Crested Iris — (Iris cristata) Amongst rocks and near water, ponds, etc.
• Blueflag Iris — (Iris versicolor) Near rocks, dependable.
• Wild Geranium — (Geranium maculantum) Seeds itself, long blooming.
• Mayapple — (Podophyllum peltatum) Establishes a stand, unusual.
• Shooting Star — (Dodecatheon meadia) White form available.
• Allegheny Foam Flower — (Tiarella cordifolia) Good groundcover, moist and wet areas.
• Cardinal Flower — (Lobelia cardinalis) Near ponds and wet areas.
• Partridgeberry — (Mitchella repens) Evergreen, low groundcover.
• Fringed Bleeding Heart — (Dicentra eximia) My favorite perennial. Amongst shade wildflowers and ferns. Blooms April to November.

Also I suggest these native trees and shrubs:

• Witchhazel — (Hamamelis virginiana) Blooms yellow in late autumn. Clump form tree especially interesting, like clump birch.
• Bayberry — (Myrica pensylvanica) Sun or light shade. Seaside hardy. Glossy leaves in the shade — deciduous – always dependable.
• Spice Bush — (Clethra alnifolia) Blooms late summer. Spicy smell. Lovely, striking yellow fall color. Tolerates wet areas or dry.
• Shadblow — (Amelanchier sp.) Early white flower, contrasting grey bark in winter.

Other Useful Internet Resources:

Green Landscaping: Greenacres Native Plants EPA FAQ Page

US National Park Service – An introduction to using native plants in restoration projects

Why Landscape With Wild Plants

Native Plants, Natural Landscapes

A Garden of Possibilites – What Exactly Are Native Plants?

Native Plants Book List

Lady Bird Johnson – Wildflower Center – Native Plant Database

Native Plant Finder – Find recommended native garden plants for your state

New England Wildflower Society

Connecticut Native Plants for the Garden

Invasive Species: Information, Images, Videos, Distribution Maps

New York Invasive Species Research Institute (NYISRI)

We will be starting a list of nurseries that carry native plants.  If you know of or are a nursery that carries native plants, send and email to david[at]ligrows.com with the nursery contact information.  Make the subject of the email “native plant nursery entry”.

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Pesticides and Herbicides are poison, plain and simple.  They were created to help us manage pests such as harmful insects, arachnids, rodents and weeds.

Unfortunately, whatever is lethal to a pest or a weed will usually cause illness in human adults and even more severe symptoms in children and pets. They are poison for our families and our animals. And when it rains, we all “drink the kool aid” as water flows into our local waterways filled with poison.

In this article we will provide a listing of Long Island Organic Landscapers and other useful resources so you can be part of the solution to maintaining a healthy environment for yourself and your family.

A quote from GardenGuides.Com:

Most service companies use inorganic chemical fertilizers, weed-killers, and pesticides. Each has its problems. Inorganic chemical fertilizers encourage the accumulation of thatch in the top layer of the soil. Thatch becomes an ideal place for insects to breed and diseases to take hold. The tightly matted roots and rhizomes, which comprise the thatch layer, prevent water from seeping through to the soil. Roots grow in the thatch layer, searching for water. Lawns get parched easily and go brown and dormant, while organically alive turf stays green and healthy with less water. The soil below the thatch becomes compacted, and with the steady diet of chemicals, is devoid of earthworms and soil microorganisms which help keep your lawn alive and healthy.

Pesticides, of course, cause other problems. According to a Federal report issued by the General Accounting Office, diazinon is “the most widely used pesticide on residential lawns…EPA subjected the insecticide diazinon to Special Review when it found that diazinon was killing waterfowl and other bird species.”

It is easy for people with busy lives to just maintain their lawns with pesticides and chemical fertilizers.  It takes an educated homeowner to maintain an organic lawn or landscape.  The Long Island Network Neighborhood has developed a comprehensive guide to maintaining a healthy organic lawn.

And luckily there are more and more lawn care companies that have grown tired of being known for the applicators of poison.  We are redistributing the list from Network Neighborhoods 2009 organic Landscaper List.

Organic Landscapers Provide an Alternative to Widespread Pesticide Use

Long Island is one of the areas of the State with the highest pesticide use. Environmental Protection Agency estimates show that Long Islanders apply approximately 10 million pounds of dry and liquid chemical pesticide products annually. Many of these pesticides are associated with health effects such as carcinogenicity, hormone disruption, and nerve toxicity, which can be especially harmful for more vulnerable subpopulations like children, elderly, asthmatics, or those with chemical sensitivities.

What is “Organic” Landscaping?

Organic methods work by enhancing the natural systems that support a healthy lawn. Instead of synthetic chemical pesticides or fertilizers which harm soil life and merely mask a symptom of an underlying soil deficiency, organic landscapers use products containing natural ingredients that build up the soil. Some materials an organic landscaper may use include compost, natural fertilizer, earthworm castings, biological controls, beneficial insects, and oils and soaps, and a variety of non-chemical techniques that work in harmony with the eco-system of a yard, such as mowing at 3” or higher to shade out weed seeds. Every time chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are applied, the number of living organisms in the soil declines significantly.

The list of organic landscapers features the names and contact information for 44 companies, the areas they service, and also provides information about the type of services provided by each company, such as mowing, fertilization, non-chemical pest control, tree-care and landscape design. This way, Long Islanders can find the service that best suits their needs.

Give Me The List Already:

(download the pdf file – 2009 Long Island Organic Landscaper List)

Suffolk:

Only 100% Organic Services:

Organic Care Inc - Karl Fridenberger 631-689-9353
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control
Areas of Service: Suffolk County

The Barefoot Gardener – Suzanne Ruggles 631-288-4351
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Remsenberg to Hampton Bays
Other Services: Vegetable Gardens, nature, wildlife habitat gardens

Some Organic Services:

Anderson’s Organic Plant Health Care – Steven Anderson 631-686-5115
Services: Fertilization, Arborist, Design, Installation
Areas of Service: Suffolk County
Other Services: Tree and Shrub Care (deep Root)

C. Whitmore Gardens Inc. – Charles Whitmore 631-267-3182
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Towns of Easthampton and Southampton
Other Services: Flower design

Holistic Gardenscapes Inc. – Peter Haralabatos 631-806-6153
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Central Suffolk North Shore, Smithtown to Shoreham
Other Services: Custom Brewed Liquid Compost

Montauk Garden Center – Jeanine Miedzwiecki 631-668-5990
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Montauk

Nature’s Guardian – Michael Sperber 631-726-1970
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Hampton Bays to Montauk

Okula Tree Care – Paul Okula 631-878-8982
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Mid-Suffolk to both forks

Red Dragon Organics – Giacomo Mulé 631-928-9175
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: North Shore, North & South Forks

South Country Arborculture, Inc. – Jeffrey Jensen 631-286-2128
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist
Areas of Service: Brookhaven Hamlet, Bellport and
East Patchogue

Summit Landscaping – Anthony Gattuso 631-325-1669
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Town of Southampton

Nassau:

Only 100% Organic Services:

Bona Fide Landscaping Inc. – Timothy J. Schmitz 631-427-6532
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: All Huntington Township, Northeastern Nassau
Other Services: Planting, pruning, clean-ups, mulching

Cipriano Nursery and Landscaping – Peter / Maria Cipriano 516-542-0499
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: East Meadow, Merrick, Bellmore, Uniondale, Hempstead, Levittown, Wantagh, Old Westbury, Great Neck, Garden City
Other Services: Flower design

Jeff’s Custom Landscaping Corp. – Jeff Forsander 516-674-0634
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Glen Head, Brokvilles, Sea Cliff, Glen Cove, Lattingtown, Locust Valley, Mattinecock
Other Services: Compost tea

LJB Finest – Lou Brust 516-582-0358
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control
Areas of Service: North Shore Nassau County
Other Services: Flower design

Organic Magic Inc. – Robert Gaudiuso 516-944-0989
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Port Washington, Sands Point, Manhasett, Plandome, Seacliff, The Brookvilles
Other Services: Flower design

Organic Solutions, Inc. – John Lamberti 516-883-0340
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control
Areas of Service: Nassau County

White Clover Landscaping – Hans Neuwirth 516-868-3532
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control
Areas of Service: South Shore Nassau; Five Towns to Massapequa, and Franklin Square to Garden City

Some Organic Services:

Complex Landscape Care and Design – Rich Staudt 516-385-2240
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Eastern Nassau from the South Shore to Jericho Turnpike, also Garden City

Joe D Landscaping – Joe De Salvo 516-997-4841
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: West Hempstead, Malvern, Franklin Square, Valley Stream, Lynbrook, New Hyde Park, Garden City
Other Services: Pruning

LI Organic Landscape & Garden Inc. – Tony Cosme 516-354-3840
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Garden City, Mineola Town of Oyster Bay

M & A Organic – Michaela MacDonald-Maddigan 516-676-0980
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: North Shore, Huntington, Loyd Harbor

Mike’s Landscaping & Design Inc. – Mike Varrone 516-868-5046
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: South Shore of Nassau County

Total Landscape Care & Design – Andrew / Rich Staudt 516-735-0265
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Central Nassau – Merrick, Wantagh, Bellmore, East Meadow, Jericho, Brookville, Locust Grove Muttowntown, Woodbury, Plainview

Tyler Lawns Corp. – Marc Bancaleri 516-876-8093
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: East Meadow Westbury, Levittown, Bethpage,
Wantagh, Plainview, Hicksville, Carl Place, Plainedge

Nassau & Suffolk:

Only 100% Organic Services:

Eco-Logical Organic Landscaping – Chris Perrone 631-345-6040
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties

Gro-Kind Organics – Eric Christopher Pomisel 631-265-5276
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties from Queens to the Twin Forks
Other Services: Pruning / tree and shrub care

Haven on Earth Garden Designs – Beth Feldman 631-261-1617
Services: Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: All Eastern Nassau and Western Suffolk -(Mostly North Shore)
Other Services: Garden Renovations and Consultations

Natural Way Organic Landscaping – Antonio Bellia 631-224-3486
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Montauk to Manhattan. MOWING AND FERT in Stonybrook and Ronkonkoma
Other Services: Poison ivy removal and exterior lighting

Organically Green Professional Lawn and Tree Spraying Inc. – John Aronica 631-467-7999
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Nassau, Suffolk, and the Five Counties
Other Services: Flower design

Some Organic Services:

All Natural Tree & Turf Care – Richard Di Mezza 631-956-1003
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: West Islip, Babylons, Lindenhurst, Copiague, Amityville, Massapequas
Other Services: Masonry

Bartlett Tree Experts – David McMaster 631-283-7494
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties

D’Amato Landscaping – Stephen D’Amato 631-754-3927
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: North Shore of Western Suffolk and Eastern Nassau

Goldberg & Rodler/Tree Care, Inc. – Steven Rodler 631-271-6460
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: All Long Island, Montauk to Manhattan
Other Services: Horticultural Maintence

Green Rose Corp. – John Verderosa 516-801-3504
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist
Areas of Service: Nassau County, Suffolk County, NYC

Independent Lawn Service – Mark Ferro 516-455-4912
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties
Other Services: Plowing

Kyo Matsumoto Inc./ Madame Butterfly – Christiane Matsumoto 631-368-1554
Services: Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties

Morning Dew Landscape Inc. – Michael J. Lovell 516-937-5242
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: East Nassau, West Suffolk
Other Services: Hydroseeding

Organics Matter – Stephen D’Amato 631-754-3927
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: North Shore of Western Suffolk and Eastern Nassau

Prestige Lawn Care – Peter Behensky 631-427-6677
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control
Areas of Service: Nassau and Suffolk Counties
Other Services: Lawn installation, seeding, and feeding

Tree Believers – Ron Strauss 631-864-5514
Services: Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Long Island and Queens, except South Fork
Other Services: Mulching, diagnostics, patio plants, walkways, drip irrigation

Long Island, Westchester, Connecticut and New Jersey:

Only 100% Organic Services:

Artscape Organic Care LLC. – Michael Papa 203-252-1954
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Consultation All LI for 100% natural lawn and ornamental services Stanford, Greenwitch, Fairfield
Other Services: Soil Fortification

Some Organic Services:

Dwight Brooks Horticulturist Inc. – Dwight Brooks 914-232-0714
Services: Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Westchester and Fairfield counties
Other Services: Organic horticulture

Earth Groomers – Steven Davidson 732-573-1800
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: Ocean and Monmouth County NJ and the Jersey Shore
Other Services: Sustainable landscape design

Organic Poison Ivy removal.com – Steve Greenspan 631-421-3602
Services: Non-Chemical Pest Control, Arborist, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: All LI, NY Metro Area, Westchester, Rockland & Fairfield Counties, NJ from Princeton North and CT
Other Services: Organic poison ivy, bamboo, and weed removal

Robert H. Witcomb Landscape & Gardening – Tom Witcomb 516-292-6060
Services: Mowing/Turf Care, Fertilization, Non-Chemical Pest Control, Design/Installation
Areas of Service: LI Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx

Are you a landscaper interested in becoming a 100% organic landscaper?
Check Neighborhood Network’s Organic Landscaper Listing Program, Organic Standards for Landscapers

Other Useful Resources Related to This Article:

Pesticide Action Network North America | Advancing Alternatives to Pesticides Worldwide

Garden Web’s Organic Lawn Care FAQ

Neighborhood Network’s Organic Lawn Guide

Organic Lawn Care 101

National Cancer Institute – Questions and Answers about the Breast Cancer and the Environment on Long Island Study

Long Island Pesticide Use – Pesticide Reduction

What’s on my food? – Pesticides – An Open Forum

The Future of Food (Film)

Sierra Club – Long Island Poisoned By Pesticides

New York TImes – Island’s Organic Landscapers Get Organized

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Did you know that the dandelion has been used as food and medicine for much of recorded history?  Yes, I am talking about that pesky weed that is the bain of your lawns existence.  Since you just can’t stop trying to get rid of them, you might as well make some use of them.  In this article I am going to detail a few ways to utilize this under appreciated plant.

Dandelion as a Food

As per Wildman Steve Brill’s website:

The leaves are more nutritious than anything you can buy. They’re higher in beta-carotene than carrots. The iron and calcium content is phenomenal, greater than spinach. You also get vitamins B-1, B-2, B-5, B-6, B-12, C, E, P, and D, biotin, inositol, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc by using a tasty, free vegetable that grows on virtually every lawn. The root contains the sugar inulin, plus many medicinal substances.

The leaves are the most frequently eaten section of the plant, and they are edible in both raw and cooked form. The flowers and roots may also be eaten, however, typically cooked to mitigate their more bitter flavor. I like to cook the bitter greens italian style by sauteing some garlic and red pepper flakes in some olive oil, adding some lemon juice and adding the dandelion greens to saute for a minute or two.

The best time to harvest the greens is the beginning of spring (before the flower starts to bud).  Wash the leaves and dry them and they are ready to be used in a salad or cooked.

Dandelion as Medicine

The University of Maryland Medical Center says about Dandelion:

In traditional medicine, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Native Americans also used dandelion decoctions (liquid made by boiling down the herb in water) to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and stomach upset. Chinese medicinal practitioners traditionally used dandelion to treat digestive disorders, appendicitis, and breast problems (such as inflammation or lack of milk flow). In Europe, herbalists incorporated it into remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.

Today, dandelion roots are mainly used as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid, and for liver and gallbladder function. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic to stimulate the excretion of urine.

Dandelion is a natural diuretic that increases urine production by promoting the excretion of salts and water from the kidney. Dandelion may be used for a wide range of conditions requiring mild diuretic treatment, such as poor digestion, liver disorders, and high blood pressure. Dandelion is a source of potassium, a nutrient often lost through the use of other natural and synthetic diuretics.

Fresh or dried dandelion herb is also used as a mild appetite stimulant and to improve upset stomach (such as feelings of fullness, flatulence, and constipation). The root of the dandelion plant is believed to have mild laxative effects and is often used to improve digestion. Research suggests that dandelion root may improve the health and function of natural bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have also reported that dandelion root may help improve liver and gallbladder function.

Some preliminary animal studies also suggest that dandelion may help normalize blood sugar levels and improve lipid profiles (lowering total cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL, “good,” cholesterol) in diabetic mice. However, not all animal studies have shown the same positive effect on blood sugar. In addition, research needs to be done on people to determine if this traditional use for diabetes has modern-day merit.

Last year I made a dandelion tincture.  It is very easy to make and can be used for people with indigestion, liver and gallbladder complaints, infections of the urinary tract, and loss of appetite.

Dandelion Tincture:

Some people take dandelion root tincture daily in early spring for a couple weeks as a cleanse for the liver.

Pull a bunch of dandelion roots and wash and dry them (best time to harvest is early spring or late fall).  Put them in a jar and cover them with 100 proof vodka ( I use 125 proof – mix of 100 and 150 proof).  Cover and place in dark place for a few weeks.  Shake each day (twice a day if possible).  After two weeks, strain and place into amber dropper bottles.  When ready to use, place a dropper full into a cup of water. Use regularly or when necessary.

Notice of Importance:  Make sure the dandelions you harvest are grown in soil that has not been treated with chemicals and pesticides. DO NOT consume dandelion that has been exposed to such toxins.

Dandelion Tea

As seen in the store, dandelion tea uses the root (sometimes roasted until dry). You can use that technique or use the fresh plant as well. Use the root, the leaves or both.  Some instructions I found interesting from dandeliontea.com:

I have dug the roots, roasted them until they were dry, chocolaty brown and crumbly, and ground them in a coffee grinder. I enjoy the coffee-like taste. A dandelion beverage makes a great coffee substitute, homemade or store-bought. Usually every day, I make dandelion tea of some sort. I especially like using the whole plant. It is very versatile.

Other Links Referring to Dandelion:

East and West, Dandelion is Best

Wildman Steve Brill Gets Arrested for harvesting Dandelions in Central Park

Wildman Steve Brill – Common Dandelion

Wikipedia – Dandelion

University of Maryland Medical Center – Complementary Medicine – Dandelion

Mother Earth News – Wild About Dandelions (Recipes)

Botanical.com – Dandelion

Dandelion Recipes – ?Homemade Herbal Remedies

Dandelion Tea – Everything about Dandelion Tea

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Planting Fields Arboretum

To the home gardener, a trip to someone else’s garden/estate can renew inspiration and appreciation for the art of gardening.  It allows us a peek at the diversity of Long Island’s environment and gives us an opportunity to learn about plant species that do well in our home gardens.  Not to mention we can take a walk and just enjoy the fruit of someone else’s labor.  And when we get back to our garden, maybe we will have learned a thing or two.

I know the following list of gardens in and around Long Island will be a good resource for myself to check on when I have the itch to walk in a great garden and hope it can be a great resource for you as well.  I am positive this list is not complete so if you know a nice garden to visit around the Long Island area, I ask you to comment it below or send an email to david@ligrows.com so I can add it to the list.  So without further adieu, our list of beautiful gardens in and around Long Island (with links to their websites and map links):

Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568 (516)333-0048 [map]

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park and Coe Hall
1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 (516)922-9200 [map]

The Madoo Conservancy
618 Sagg Main Street, Sag Harbor, NY 11963 (631)537-8200 [map]

Clark Botanic Garden
193 I. U. Willets Rd, Albertson, NY 11507 (516)484-2208 [map]

John P. Humes Japanese Stroll Garden
347 Oyster Bay Rd., Locust Valley, NY 11560 (516)676-4486 [map]

The Bayard Cutting Arboretum
440 Montauk Highway, Great River, NY 11739 (631)581-1002 [map]

Bailey Arboretum
Bayville Rd & Feeks Lane, Lattingtown, NY 11560 (516)571-8020 [map]

Cedarmere House

Nassau County Museum of Art
One Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, NY 11576 (516)484-9337 [map]

Holocaust Center Of Nassau County / Welwyn Preserve
100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove, N.Y. 11542 (516)571-8040 [map]

Bridge Garden Trust
36 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton, NY 11932 (631)537-7440 [map]

Long House Reserve
133 Hands Creek Road, East Hampton, New York 11937 (631)329-3568 [map]

Sweet Briar Nature Center
62 Eckernkamp Dr, Smithtown, NY 11787-1739 (631) 979-6344 [map]

Montauk Daylily Garden
136 Second House Road, Montauk, NY 11954 (631)668-2964 [map]

Hofstra University Arboretum
Hempstead, NY 11549 (516)463-6623 [map]

Isabel Hibbard Gardens
A Nationally Recognized American Hemerocallis Society’s Display Garden on Long Island
4 Nancy Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735 (516)694-9682 [map]

Long Island Seed Project
1372 Flanders Road, Flanders, New York 11901 [map]

Gardens Nearby Long Island
————————————–

Queens Botanical Garden
43-50 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355 (718)886-3800 [map]

Brooklyn Botanic Garden
1000 Washington Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11225 (718) 623-7200 [map]

The New York Botanical Garden
200th Street and Kazimiroff Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458-5126 (718)817-8700 [map]

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
914 Richmond Ter, Staten Island, NY 10301 (718) 273-8200 [map]
View

in a larger map

Old Estates of Long Island

Are you interested in thehistory of old estates on long island? Visit OldLongIsland.Com The site is dedicated to the preservation of Long Island’s “gold coast” estates and other things old.

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Spearmint Comin' Up

I just harvested the first cutting of my four varieties of mint growing in various gardens. I am growing

• Spearmint
• Peppermint
• Greek Mint
• Another Spearmint Variety (Large Leafed)

Some techniques commonly used to dry mint are:

• Bundle and hang from Stems in a dark, very dry place (if possible with paper bags around the bundles)
• Put in Paper bags
• Place in oven at very low temperature for a short while and then turn oven off (hang in oven if possible)
• Hang and Air Dry in ventilated place
• Dry in Microwave
• Place in front of dehumidifier

I like the first three techniques as they the process is easier on the plant. Drawing the water out of the plant through the paper bags is, to me the best way and maximizes the preservation of essential oils.  I would recommend this technique for many other plants as well.  Others suggest this technique is not good due to the paper absorbing the essential oils.  I have not found this to be the case from my experiences.

The last three to me are not as good choices due to the harshness of drying which can lead to the loss of essential oils.  Some people put the mint in the oven on low temperature until dry and while I haven’t tried that, it just seems a bit harsh).  Plus if you need the mint quick, just use it fresh!  I like to use it to make tea everyday while its in the process of drying as well as after.

The best time to pick the mint (or any other herb) is right before it flowers in the early to mid morning.  This is when the most essential oils are present sending all of its plant goodness into the reproductive process and producing all that aroma, flavor and other magic!

I took the first cutting of mint recently – Mid-June here. (could have probably waited a bit longer but am going away and don’t want it to go to flower)  Im sure it will pop right back up for a second cutting in a month or so.  Ill change this article when I make the second cutting.

While there are many uses for mint, I mostly use it for tea.  It is one of my favorite medicinal herbs and is amazing for aiding in digestion, calming the nerves, and giving a relaxing earthy feeling.  Dr. Weil,  best known for establishing and popularizing the field of integrative medicine explains the medicinal benefits of tea:

Peppermint is a wonderful digestive remedy, especially useful for the upper GI tract, for relief of heartburn, indigestion, nausea, and the like. You can buy pure peppermint leaf tea in most supermarkets. Brew it in a covered container to avoid loss of volatile components, and drink as much of it as you like, hot or iced. This herb is also soothing to the lower GI tract. Enteric-coated capsules of peppermint oil have been used for irritable bowel syndrome. Enteric coating resists attack by stomach acid, so the capsules pass into the intestines intact and release their contents there. As with garlic, our familiarity with peppermint makes us less likely to take it seriously as a medicine, but in fact it is one of the most powerful and effective remedies for gastrointestinal complaints. It is also nontoxic.

Other plants I am growing in the mint family:

• Lemon Balm
• Lavender Bergamot
• Catnip
• Lavender
• Basil
• Oregano
• Marjoram
• Rosemary
• Thyme

Leave a comment sharing your experiences with drying mint and the different ways you use it.

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