"Shhhh," I said to the majestic maple tree. "Listen very closely, did you hear anything?"
"Oh yes, I believe I hear the "Tree Whisperers approaching!"
No, this is not a page out of a science fiction novel; it is an actual dialogue between me and the enormous 40-foot tree that stands proudly on my front lawn.
Thanks to the folks at Plant Health Alternatives, my trees and I have begun a new found friendship.
As president of the Great Kills Garden Club, I am always on the lookout for a new or unique program to present to the membership at our monthly meetings.
It was during a visit to the New Jersey Flower Show last year that I met this dynamic duo who I was sure would grab and hold my members' attention. They are James J. Conroy, PhD., founder and president of Plant Health Alternatives, and Basia Alexander, general manager and teacher, and they have been more than accommodating.
After stumbling upon their display, I listened intently to their leading-edge presentation.
This holistic, alternative system fixes stressed trees and plants from the inside out. Their simple, highly effective process brings new life to trees in decline by repairing the internal functionality of the tree; restoring its growth potential, and bringing balance to the environment.
At one time or another, most homeowners are faced with the dilemma of losing a beloved tree due to disease or decay. Sick or stressed trees detract from the beauty of your landscape.
What can we do to prevent this scenario from unfolding? Actually, we are not as powerless as we may feel. Over the years, Conroy has been instrumental in reversing the decline of many trees using "Green Centrics."
All stressed trees have secondary issues that must be addressed in order for the tree to be healed.
A sick tree is akin to an instrument in an orchestra playing out of tune. By using techniques borrowed from human alternative health care, the tree's compromised parts and internal systems are repaired.
Green Centrics is a system of analytical inquiry combined with a hands-on approach to determine how the "orchestra" inside the plant is disordered and how order can be re-established.
Since the tree or plant is alive, it responds to the practitioner's energy treatment -- which usually consists of applying focused intention using a touching, tapping procedure. Dynamic balance in the tree is also restored.
After treatment, the tree's growth energy shifts from a downward, declining spiral to an upward growth pattern whereby the tree heals itself. In turn, the tree is able to maintain its balance within its green community to once again "play in tune."
And, it works. Conroy and Ms. Alexander don't know exactly how it works, they just know it does.
Plant Health Alternatives has a mission: To provide a new kind of professional service to people with trees, plants, crops, forests or parks in decline.
They have been known to save declining specimen and heritage trees, when other professionals had given up. The trees are unharmed by invasive techniques or chemicals and become stronger, healthier and disease resistant.
There are many benefits to applying this leading-edge thinking to the care of your foliage. Remember, trees are alive. The health and vigor of any tree can be compromised by injury, transplant shock or disease.
As part of their mission, they also teach a course. Uunder the guidance of Conroy and Ms. Alexander, students can become certified "tree Ambassadors" Then you will be able to holistically heal trees at an introductory level and speak for trees when they are sick or in danger.
You will be led "inside their roots" in meditation to experience life force growth energies, such as nature, spirit, intelligence and wisdom. With the decline of forests and the negative effects of climate change we can now begin connecting with our trees and collectively, we can "whisper" global healing.
Plant Health Alternatives may be reached at 201-650-1231 or by clicking here.