Nebraska Extension in Morrill County

By Anita Gall, Nebraska Extension Master Gardener 

Pine Tree Needles

Have you noticed the needles changing color on your pine trees? Is it the inner needles only? Evergreens don’t keep their needles indefinitely but will typically drop the inner needles in September or October depending upon the year. Needle drop is a natural occurrence and is not harmful to the tree, in fact it is the way the tree feeds itself in the forest. As the needles decompose it creates a rich organic matter in the ground beneath the tree supplying it with nutrients. 

Root Growth

Life is busy, especially for families. From late-night work meetings to school events and extracurriculars, families are on the go. This can often lead to rushed meals or meals on the go. With hectic schedules, it is important to plan relaxed family mealtimes into your schedule as often as possible. There are several benefits to relaxed family meals that include: the development of positive eating habits, creation of stronger parent-child bonds, and better school performance. The University of Nebraska’s EAT Family Style at Home website supports families with quick, easy, and fun ways to make mealtimes healthy, enjoyable, and less stressful for everyone.