This week we are celebrating parks and recreation so what better way to do this than appreciating nature! Please visit our links on Twitter to discover more! https://twitter.com/Rutgers_SCUA
Many people are using their free time during the pandemic to do some yard work and landscaping. This may include gardening, trimming, or even planting a tree!
The image above, featured in March 20, 1923 Perth Amboy Evening News., describes the correct way of planting a tree as well as providing adequate care. The American Tree Association at Washington, D. C. celebrated the centennial of Arbor Day, fifty years before it happens by planting trees where the Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis Clubs, and the Federation of Women’s Clubs are pushing the work.
The image of a Newark City Garden, featured in October 17, 1914 Newark Evening Star and Newark Advertiser, shows how to best attract birds with the surrounding flora and water bath (pictured in the center).
The dazzling images, featured in May 28, 1915 Perth Amboy Evening News. shows trees planted in Newark by the Shade Tree Commission. As mentioned in the article, the value of the street set out in shade trees increases its attractiveness and value. However, it is important to know that it takes around a decade before a sapling becomes grown shade tree. It is important to know that trees are self sufficient machines. They gain nutrients from the soil and sunlight from above to nourish and release oxygen in the environment.
The image, featured in June 22, 1910 Newark Evening Star and Newark Advertiser, shows shade trees that come from many different parts of the world. A person taking a stroll on the streets may decide to sit under the shade of an ancient Chinese tree, called a ginkgo tree. That person may decide to sit under a sycamore tree or a Lombardy Popular tree, a native Italian tree, or perhaps a Norway maple.
It is important to know that if you are unable to plant trees you have the option to support a variety of environmental organizations.
Be sure to follow Rutgers Special Collections/University Archives on Twitter @Rutgers_SCUA. For more New Jersey and other state’s historical newspaper images, search the hashtag #ChronAmParty.
(Contributed by Kristi Chanda)