For quite some time, I thought that the Praying Mantis was an endangered and protected species in Pennsylvania. I recently learned that this idea likely began in the 1950s in an effort to discourage homeowners from killing these helpful pest predators. In reality, according to many sources (including Praying-Mantis.org), Praying Mantis are not–nor have ever been–endangered or protected.

Praying Mantis are considered desirable additions to the ecosystem; many gardeners wish they had more in their yards to decrease the need for pesticides. To learn more about pest control, click here. So, when you see one, be grateful that this unique and beneficial creature has found refuge in your garden. Welcome it gladly, and enjoy watching its antics for a minute or two!

Shared by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& grateful “warrior” watcher)

Recently, we have seen these insect Ninjas throughout our garden–shown here on Pieris, Cryptomeria, and Pine straw mulch.

On sweltering summer days, you can refresh in the shade of leafy canopies; on blustery winter days, you can take in the structures of leafless branches and their silhouettes against the sky. And in any season, you can appreciate the beauty, grandeur, and value of mature trees in the landscape. In fact, you may even begin to imagine the possibilities and benefits of adding one or several to your own garden. We certainly hope so, and look forward to hearing from you and learning together which trees are best suited to your particular situation.

(Call us at 717-653-1273 to get started!)

Some of our favorite “tree classrooms” are the University of Pennsylvania’s Morris Arboretum, Swarthmore College’s Scott Arboretum, Mount Cuba, Winterthur, Longwood Gardens, and old growth forests everywhere.

Joyfully shared by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& perpetual learner of all things lovely)

Shared by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& fan of seasonal beauty)

While Tree-of-Heaven plants are invasive and certainly not recommended additions to any garden, Sean Kramer, Hanselman Landscape’s pest-control specialist, has devised an effective plan to handle both undesirable populations: He cuts down female Tree-of-Heaven plants to reduce the spread of this species, and uses existing male Tree-of-Heaven trees as death traps for Spotted Lantern Flies. Our clients are thrilled with the success of this two-pronged approach, and so are their neighbors!

Contributed by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife

Let’s face it, the Summer of 2020 has been HARD. Isolation from loved ones, disappointment over canceled plans, and personal and public strife are just a few of the hardships we have all dealt with in some measure. It is easy to get stuck in the ensuing despair and discouragement . . . . except there is so much good and beauty to be found right where we are, if we choose to see it!

In this season, we are grateful for the good-hearted people in our small town and on the encircling farms; for the hard work evident in the care of creatures and crops by so many of our neighbors; for their dedication to faith and family; for friendly smiles and waves from Amish children in farm lanes as we pass; for the honesty, contentment, and general good will at the core of our rural acquaintances.

What beauty are you seeing in the people and landscapes around you during this time when your focus has narrowed? (Feel free to share in a comment below, if you like.)

Contributed by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& perpetual joy seeker)

Shared with delight by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& fan of falling water)

A variety of inspiring “falling water” options are available from the design/build team at Hanselman Landscape. Examples shown are a Japanese-style tsukubai, a Costa Rican vacation-inspired waterfall, and a church courtyard water garden, Lancaster and Manheim, PA.