Plants are like people in that they can only do a few things at a time, and do them well. Summer heat and the continual uptake and need for water can inhibit the ability of a plant to extend its root system. It has too many distractions. That phrase was written many times by the late Dr. J.C. Raulston, founder of the arboretum at N.C. State University that now bears his name. After all, trees represent life.
Planting is an expression of optimism and belief in the future.
Perhaps one way to honor those lost on Sept. 11 is to plant your own personal memorial tree a living memorial. Imagine 50 or 100 years from now, hundreds, perhaps thousands of trees which can be dated to 2001 a testament to our belief in the future of our country. Show you believe in the future. Plant a tree, if not for yourself, for the future generations of Americans who are yet to come. Ben Dungan is the horticulture agent for Gaston County office of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.