nutshell NEWS IN A
It’s summer. Enjoy beeing outside.
PHOTO BY FRANCES WAIT
Q3 - 2026
DIGGING DEEP SERIES
understanding what we practice
Drew Smith, Greenville’s dedicated Urban Forester, brings more than two decades of experience to the role. He remains committed to studying and learning, always seeking to improve his expertise in urban forestry. 2
Annual Conference PLUS Pre-Conf Workshop and Tour
OCT 28-30, 2026 FOLLY BEACH, SC
Join TreesSC for insightful presentations, networking opportunities, and a chance to connect with fellow tree professionals and enthusiasts. You will find opportunities to participate in a workshop and a guided tour of the area, as well as educational sessions on current issues in the green industry. Register for all three days or choose the option that best fits your interests and schedule.
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
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FOOD FOREST SERIES
ASIMINA TRILOBA: THE FORGOTTEN FRUIT OF NORTH AMERICA
Pawpaw Tree Fact Sheet Introduction
The pawpaw tree (Asimina triloba) is an extraordinary, yet often overlooked, native fruit tree found in the temperate forests of North America. Revered for its tropical-flavored fruit and valued by Indigenous peoples, the pawpaw has woven itself into the cultural and ecological fabric of the eastern United States. This comprehensive fact sheet explores the biology, ecology, history, cultivation, and culinary uses of this unique tree.
Family: Annonaceae (the custard apple family, primarily tropical)
Fruit: Large, oblong to round, greenish-yellow berries that ripen in late summer to early fall. Each fruit can weigh 5–16 ounces (140–450 g) and often grows in clusters (sometimes called “hands” of pawpaw).
Common Names: Pawpaw, Indiana banana, poor man’s banana, American custard apple
Bark: Smooth, grayish-brown, with wart-like lenticels in youth and becoming rougher with age.
Native Range: Eastern United States, from the Great Lakes down to the Gulf Coastal Plain, and from the Atlantic coast west to Nebraska and Texas.
Roots: Shallow, spreading roots. Pawpaws often form small colonies or groves via root suckers.
Taxonomy & Botanical Description Scientific Name: Asimina triloba
The pawpaw is the largest edible fruit native to North America, with a tree that typically grows 15–30 feet (4.5–9 m) tall. It is recognized for its slender, pyramidal form and large, drooping leaves that can reach up to a foot long, giving the tree a lush, almost tropical appearance.
Physical Characteristics Leaves: Large, simple, oblong, deciduous leaves arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) long and emit a faint odor when crushed. Flowers: Distinctive, maroon to purple flowers bloom in early spring before leaf-out. The flowers are about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) across, with six petals in two whorls, and are protogynous, meaning the female part matures before the male. 4
Ecological Role & Habitat Habitat: Commonly found in the understory of rich, moist, well-drained bottomlands and hardwood forests, especially along rivers and streams. Wildlife Value: Fruits are relished by raccoons, opossums, foxes, squirrels, and birds (especially wild turkeys). The foliage is one of the few larval hosts for the zebra swallowtail butterfly (Eurytides marcellus). Pollination: Pollinated primarily by beetles and flies, as the flowers emit a faintly yeasty smell, rather than sweet nectar, to attract these insects. Deer Resistance: Pawpaw leaves and twigs contain natural compounds (acetogenins) that deter deer and other mammalian herbivores.
History & Cultural Significance
Varieties & Cultivars
Indigenous Use: Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, valued pawpaw fruit for food and used its bark for fiber.
Several improved pawpaw cultivars have been developed for home and commercial orchards, selected for larger fruit, better flavor, and fewer seeds:
Colonial & Pioneer Use: Early European settlers adopted pawpaw as a staple wild fruit. The fruit was eaten raw, dried, or incorporated into various recipes. Folklore: Referenced in folk songs, such as “Way Down Yonder in the Pawpaw Patch,” and in the writings of Thomas Jefferson and Lewis and Clark, who documented its consumption during their expedition.
Fruit Characteristics & Culinary Uses Appearance: The pawpaw fruit resembles a small, green mango or potato, with thin skin that yellows as it ripens. Flavor: Described as a blend of banana, mango, pineapple, and melon, with a custardy texture and sweet, fragrant aroma. Seeds: Several large, dark brown seeds are embedded in the creamy flesh. Seeds are not edible and should be discarded. Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants. Pawpaw fruit contains more protein than most other fruits and is relatively low in fat. Common Uses: n Eaten fresh, scooped straight from the skin with a spoon. n Used in desserts such as ice cream, custards, pies, quick breads, smoothies, and puddings. n Pulp can be frozen for later use or dried as a snack. Storage: Pawpaw fruit is highly perishable, lasting just a few days at room temperature. For longer storage, pulp can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for up to a year.
Growing Pawpaw Trees Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Requires at least 400 hours of winter chilling. Sun & Soil: Young trees prefer partial shade, but mature trees produce best in full sun. Thrives in deep, fertile, moist, welldrained soils with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Propagation: By seed (requires cold stratification for 80–100 days) or by root suckers. Grafting named cultivars onto seedling rootstocks is common in orchards. Spacing: Plant trees 15–25 feet (4.5–7.5 m) apart to ensure proper growth and fruit production. Pollination Needs: Pawpaws are self-incompatible; at least two genetically distinct trees are needed for cross-pollination and good fruit set. Water: Consistent moisture is essential, especially during establishment and fruiting periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture. Pests & Diseases: Relatively pest- and disease-free. Occasional issues include pawpaw peduncle borer and fungal leaf spots, but such problems are rare. Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Remove suckers unless a pawpaw patch is desired. Thin lower branches to encourage upright growth.
‘Sunflower’: Self-fertile, heavy-bearing; sweet, yellow flesh. ‘Shenandoah’: Large, sweet fruit; small seed cavity. n ‘Susquehanna’: Exceptionally large; creamy texture; rich flavor. n ‘Allegheny’: Prolific, early-ripening; fine, smooth pulp. n ‘Overleese’: Large fruit; excellent flavor. n n
Propagation & Care Seed Sowing: Fresh pawpaw seeds should be cleaned and kept moist. They require a cold, moist stratification period of 3–4 months before they will germinate. Seeds can be planted outdoors in the fall or started indoors in pots and transplanted after the risk of frost has passed. Transplanting: Pawpaws develop a deep taproot, making them somewhat difficult to transplant once established. Handle young trees with care to avoid root disturbance. Fertilization: Generally low-maintenance, but benefits from an annual application of compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Challenges & Considerations Pollination: Because they are pollinated by beetles and flies rather than bees, hand pollination is sometimes used in orchards to improve fruit set. Perishability: The short shelf life of pawpaw fruit limits its commercial availability. Most are consumed locally or by foragers. Seed Toxicity: While the fruit is edible, the seeds contain alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in quantity. Always remove seeds before consuming the flesh. Allergies: Some people may experience mild skin irritation from contact with pawpaw leaves or skin.
Fun Facts Pawpaw is the largest edible fruit native to the United States. Pawpaw trees are the only temperate members of the tropical custard apple family. n Chilled pawpaw pulp was reportedly a favorite dessert of George Washington. n Pawpaw is celebrated annually at festivals in states like Ohio and Kentucky. n Potential anti-cancer compounds. n n
Conclusion Despite its rich history and delicious fruit, the pawpaw remains a hidden gem of North American orchards and forests. As interest in native and sustainable crops grows, this unique tree is poised for a rediscovery by gardeners, foragers, and chefs alike. Whether enjoyed fresh from the tree or transformed into creative recipes, the pawpaw offers a taste of the wild and a connection to America’s botanical heritage. PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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FOOD FOREST SERIES
PROFILE, CULTIVATION, AND ROLE IN FOOD FORESTS
Damson Plum Fact Sheet Introduction
Cultivation Requirements
The Damson plum (Prunus domestica subsp. insititia), often simply called “Damson,” is a small-fruited, tart variety of plum with a long history in both wild and cultivated landscapes. Its robust character, hardiness, and distinct flavor have made it a cherished fruit tree among gardeners, orchardists, and permaculture designers.
CLIMATE
Particularly well-suited to temperate climates, Damson plums find a special place in sustainable food systems, such as food forests, where their ecological and culinary roles are highly valued.
Botanical Description Scientific Name: Prunus domestica subsp. insititia Common Names: Damson, Damson plum Family: Rosaceae Origin: Thought to have originated in the region around Syria, and has been cultivated in Europe for centuries Height and Spread: Typically 3–6 meters tall and wide; dwarf varieties are available and suitable for smaller spaces Lifespan: 20–50 years with proper care Fruit: Small (2–3 cm), oval-shaped, deep purple to blue-black skin, yellow-green flesh, tart and astringent flavor Flowering: White blossoms in early to mid-spring, usually before the leaves emerge Pollination: Some varieties are self-fertile, but cross-pollination with another plum enhances fruit set and quality
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Damson plums grow best in temperate zones with cold winters and warm summers. They require a period of winter chilling to set fruit and are notably hardy, often tolerating temperatures well below freezing. SOIL
Ideal Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Soil Tolerance: Damsons can adapt to heavier soils and even clay, provided there is adequate drainage. They are less tolerant of waterlogged conditions. SUNLIGHT
Full sun is optimal for fruit development, though Damson plums are somewhat shade-tolerant and may still produce fruit with partial sun exposure. WATERING
Young trees require regular watering until established. Mature trees tolerate moderate drought, but consistent moisture during fruit development ensures better yields and quality. SPACING AND PLANTING
Spacing: Plant trees 4–6 meters apart; dwarf varieties can be spaced closer. Planting: The best time to plant Damson plums is in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant.
MAINTENANCE
Wildlife Support: The tree’s dense foliage and thorny branches provide nesting sites for birds, while the blossoms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Fallen fruit feeds small mammals and decomposers, enriching soil life.
Fertilization: Generally low-maintenance. Add compost or a balanced fruit tree fertilizer annually if necessary.
Pest Management: By hosting beneficial insects and birds, Damsons contribute to natural pest control, reducing the need for chemical intervention.
Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and air circulation. Damson plums tend to form dense growth, so thinning is beneficial.
Pest and Disease Resistance: Damson plums are robust and relatively resistant to many orchard pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to brown rot and aphids.
Harvest and Storage Harvest Time: Late summer to early autumn (typically August to September, depending on climate) Signs of Ripeness: Fruit becomes soft to the touch and develops a deep blue color; flavor mellows slightly but remains tart
SOIL AND WATER RELATIONSHIPS
Damson plum roots help stabilize soil and resist erosion, making them suitable for marginal or sloped sites within a food forest. Their tolerance for a range of soil types also increases system resilience. EDGE EFFECT AND DIVERSITY
Harvest Method: Hand-picking is recommended, as Damsons are delicate and bruise easily
Damson plums thrive on the sunny edges of food forests, maximizing light exposure and promoting diverse microclimates. Their ability to fruit in partial shade supports productive understory plantings as well.
Storage: Fresh fruit keeps for about a week refrigerated; can be preserved as jams, jellies, chutneys, or dried for longer storage
CONTRIBUTION TO HUMAN AND ECOLOGICAL YIELD
Culinary Uses
Reliable Yields: Even in less-than-ideal conditions, Damson plums tend to produce fruit consistently year after year.
The sharp, tangy flavor of Damson plums makes them ideal for processed products rather than fresh eating. Their high pectin content is particularly valued in preserves.
Low Input: Once established, Damsons require minimal maintenance and are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for low-intervention systems.
Jams and Jellies: Damson jam is renowned for its intense flavor and deep color.
Food Security: Their ability to provide high-value preserves and dried fruit contributes to year-round food supply in a food forest.
Chutneys and Sauces: The tartness combines well with spices, making excellent relishes for meats and cheeses. Wines and Liqueurs: Damson gin and plum wine are traditional country beverages. Desserts: Used in pies, tarts, and crumbles, often combined with sweeter fruits.
Genetic Diversity: Integrating heritage or wild-type Damson varieties increases the genetic base and disease resilience of the orchard layer.
Challenges and Considerations
Drying: Damson plums can be dried for snacks or used in baking.
While Damson plums are generally robust, keep in mind: Astringency: The fresh fruit is very tart, which may not appeal to all palates without processing.
Ecological Role in Food Forest Systems
Vigorous Growth: Can form suckers and dense thickets if not managed; regular pruning is advisable.
Damson plums are a valuable addition to permaculture and food forest projects because of their adaptability and multiple functions. LAYERING AND PLACEMENT
In food forests, Damson plums typically occupy the small tree layer. Their moderate size allows them to coexist with larger canopy trees such as walnuts or oaks, and to overshadow lower shrubs or herbaceous plants. Polyculture Guilds: Damsons can be paired with nitrogen-fixing plants (like autumn olive or clover), dynamic accumulators (such as comfrey), and insect-attracting herbs (like mint or borage) to enhance overall system health.
Susceptibility to Brown Rot: Good air circulation and prompt removal of diseased fruit help mitigate this.
Conclusion Damson plums are a time-tested, multifunctional tree well-suited to temperate food forests and permaculture designs. Their resilience, reliable yields, and ecological benefits make them indispensable for anyone seeking to create a layered, resilient, and productive edible landscape. Whether grown for their unique preserves or as a hardworking component of an agroecological system, Damson plums prove that the best fruits are sometimes those that thrive quietly at the forest edge, supporting both people and the wider ecosystem. PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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Why “Right Tree, Right Place” matters Selecting the right tree for the right place is one of the most important decisions in any landscape. A tree may look small and manageable at the garden center, but its mature size, growth habit, and seasonal features will determine whether it becomes a long-term asset or a long-term problem. Planting without considering those factors can lead to crowded spaces, blocked windows, damaged sidewalks, conflicts with utility lines, and constant pruning. Thoughtful selection, on the other hand, helps ensure that a tree can thrive where it is planted and continue to add beauty, shade, and value for many years. Today, much of the research needed to make a wise tree choice is right at our fingertips. Extension resources, nursery guides, and planting manuals make it easy to compare mature height and width before making a purchase. Those details matter. A tree that eventually grows 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide belongs in a very different setting than one that matures at 8 feet by 6 feet. Checking mature dimensions in advance helps match the tree to the available space instead of forcing the space to adapt to the tree later. Research also allows us to choose trees based on ornamental and maintenance preferences. Flower color can shape the look and feel of a landscape, whether the goal is soft whites and pinks or bold reds and purples. Fruiting habits are equally important. Some property owners welcome decorative fruit that supports wildlife, while others prefer trees that produce little or no fruit to reduce litter on sidewalks, driveways, patios, or near pools. By reviewing these characteristics before planting, we can choose a tree that not only fits the site physically but also fits the way the space will be used and maintained. Crapemyrtle is an excellent example of why “Right Tree, Right Place” matters so much. Many people think of crapemyrtle as a single type of small flowering tree, but it actually has an extreme range of sizes. Some dwarf and miniature selections stay under 5 feet tall, while larger cultivars can grow 20 to 30 feet tall or more. Width also varies greatly. For example, some smaller forms may mature around 4 to 8 feet wide, while larger selections such as ‘Natchez’ or ‘Muskogee’ may spread 15 to 25 feet. Flower colors range from white and pale pink to bright red, lavender, and deep purple, giving gardeners many choices. This wide variation means that buying a crapemyrtle based only on bloom color can lead to serious mistakes. A dwarf selection may be perfect near a walkway or small foundation bed, while a large tree-form variety belongs in an open lawn or broad planting area where it has room to develop naturally. In the end, “Right Tree, Right Place” is about planning ahead. Before planting, it is worth taking a few minutes to measure the space, check the light, think about nearby structures and utilities, and review reliable information on mature size, flower color, and fruiting habits. That simple research can prevent years of frustration and help each tree perform at its best. When we choose carefully, we give trees the opportunity to grow into the landscape instead of outgrowing it. PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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LEFT: Purple Magic Crapemyrtle. Mature height 6-10’. CENTER: Lipan Crapemyrtle. Mature Height 12-20’. RIGHT: Muskogee Crapemytle. Mature Height 20-30’.
PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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ILEX ‘MAGLAND’
Oakland Holly
Overview Oakland Holly (Ilex ‘Magland’) is a popular evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth and attractive, spiny-edged foliage. The plant typically reaches heights of 12-15 feet and a width of 8-10 feet, making it suitable for use as a hedge, privacy screen, or accent specimen in landscapes. Its dark green, glossy leaves remain vibrant throughout the year, providing reliable color and structure to gardens. 10
Foliage and Flowers The foliage of Oakland Holly is one of its most distinctive features—dark green, leathery leaves with sharply pointed edges resemble traditional holly but with a more refined and symmetrical appearance. In spring, the plant produces small white flowers, though these blooms are not especially showy. If pollinated, female plants will develop bright red berries that persist through fall and winter, attracting birds and adding seasonal interest.
Growing Conditions Oakland Holly is adaptable to many garden settings. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils but tolerates a range of soil types. This holly is hardy in USDA Zones 6 through 9, making it suitable for much of the United States, including both southern and mid-Atlantic regions. Once established, it can withstand periods of drought and is generally considered deer-resistant.
Landscape Uses Thanks to its dense, upright form and evergreen foliage, Oakland Holly is commonly used as a hedge or screen to provide privacy and define boundaries. It also works well as a foundation planting or a specimen shrub. Its moderate growth rate means it won’t require frequent pruning, making it a low-maintenance option for many landscapes.
Care and Maintenance Oakland Holly requires little maintenance beyond occasional pruning to maintain its desired shape. It is generally resistant to most common pests and diseases, though regular inspection is recommended to catch any potential issues early. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Benefits and Considerations Year-round structure and color in the landscape Provides food and shelter for wildlife n Low pruning requirements and generally pest-resistant n Deer resistance makes it suitable for areas prone to browsing n Not all plants will produce berries; requires both male and female for fruit set n n
Summary Oakland Holly is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a reliable, attractive evergreen shrub for hedges, screens, or specimen plantings. Its glossy foliage, upright habit, and adaptability to different conditions make it a versatile addition to the landscape. With minimal maintenance and year-round interest, it is well-suited for both residential and commercial settings. PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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FOOD FOREST SERIES
Goose Creek Food Forest at John McCants ribbon cutting ceremony on April 24, 2026.
SCFC URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY PROGRAM
Planning and Planting Food Forests by Frances Waite, South Carolina Forestry Commission
Across the state, Food Forests are taking root in parks, neighborhoods, and community spaces, transforming areas into vibrant, inviting landscapes filled with trees and shrubs providing edible fruits, pollinator species, herbs, and vegetables. Designed to mimic a natural forest ecosystem, these sustainable community gardens are intended to provide long-term food access while creating spaces where neighbors can gather, learn, and work together. What makes these projects especially meaningful is the strong community involvement behind them. Residents help shape the vision for each Food Forest by providing input during the planning and design stages. Volunteers of all ages participate in planting days, educational activities, and maintenance efforts, learning everything from when fruits are ripe for harvesting to how to identify pollinator-friendly plants and properly care for trees and gardens. The Food Forests are also becoming outdoor classrooms. Community members are learning practical gardening skills, exploring sustainable food systems, and discovering how local ecosystems support healthy communities. Organizers say the projects offer an added bonus: teaching people how to grow their own food while strengthening neighborhood partnerships through shared work and stewardship. Several Food Forest projects have already been completed and are welcoming community participation. These include the 12
Charleston Parks Conservancy’s Mulberry Park Food Forest, the MUSC Food Forest, the USC Upstate Food Forest, and Wassamassaw Park’s Summerville Food Forest. Other projects are currently in progress and entering final planting phases. These include the Darlington Food Forest, developed in partnership with the local housing authority, the Lake City Food Forest managed by Moore Farms Botanical Gardens, the Goose Creek Food Forest at John McCants, and Keep North Charleston Beautiful’s Food Forest. While many of the initial installations are complete, the work of a Food Forest never truly ends. Seasonal maintenance, additional plantings, and ongoing volunteer efforts help ensure these spaces continue to thrive for years to come. One important focus of the UCF grant program is creating Food Forests in walkable, accessible areas where neighbors can safely visit, volunteer, and enjoy the space alongside the organizations responsible for long-term oversight and management. As these Food Forests mature and begin producing more fruits and vegetables, the harvests will be available for the public to enjoy. Food Forests offer not only fresh food, but also are an example of what communities can accomplish when they plant and grow together.
BLACK WALNUT
Benefits and Landscape Drawbacks
Allelopathic plants, especially trees Allelopathy is the ability of one plant to influence nearby plants through naturally produced chemicals called allelochemicals. These compounds may be released from roots, leaves, bark, seeds, or decaying plant litter, and they can suppress growth of neighboring species. Although allelopathy can occur in many herbs, grasses, shrubs, and crops, trees are among the most recognized examples because their chemical effects can shape large areas beneath and around the canopy. Benefits of the Allelopathic Plant
Drawbacks in Landscapes and Gardens
For the plant that produces allelochemicals, allelopathy can provide several ecological advantages. Most importantly, it can reduce competition from neighboring plants for light, water, nutrients, and rooting space.
Allelopathic trees can create serious planting challenges in landscapes. Gardeners may find that turf, flowers, vegetables, shrubs, or even young trees fail to thrive beneath or near certain species despite adequate watering and fertilization. This often leads to bare ground, poor plant performance, and repeated planting failures.
By suppressing the germination or growth of competitors, an allelopathic tree may secure more resources for itself and its offspring. This can improve seedling establishment, help maintain territory beneath the canopy, and increase survival during periods of environmental stress. In some species, allelopathic compounds may also affect soil microbes or discourage certain pests, further strengthening the plant’s position in the ecosystem. Examples of Allelopathic Trees One of the best-known allelopathic trees is the black walnut, which produces juglone, a compound that can injure sensitive plants such as tomatoes, potatoes, azaleas, and some pines. Eucalyptus species are also famous for suppressing understory growth through chemicals released from leaves, roots, and litter. Treeof-heaven has been associated with strong chemical interference that helps it spread aggressively, and some pines, oaks, some magnolias, hackberries, maples, and sumacs are also reported to influence neighboring vegetation through allelopathic effects. The degree of influence depends on the species involved, soil conditions, moisture, temperature, and the sensitivity of nearby plants.
Black walnut is especially problematic in residential yards because juglone can persist in roots, leaf litter, and nut hulls, affecting susceptible plants even after the tree is removed. Eucalyptus and other strongly allelopathic trees may also reduce plant diversity under their canopy, making mixed plantings difficult to establish. Because the symptoms of allelopathic injury can resemble drought stress, nutrient deficiency, or disease, the problem is often misdiagnosed, which adds to maintenance costs and frustration. Conclusion Allelopathic plants are an important example of chemical interaction in plant communities, and trees provide some of the clearest and most practical examples of this phenomenon. For the tree itself, allelopathy can be an effective survival strategy that reduces competition and improves access to resources. In managed landscapes, however, the same trait can become a drawback by limiting what can be planted nearby and complicating design decisions. Understanding which species are allelopathic helps gardeners, arborists, and landscape designers select compatible plantings and avoid costly mistakes. PRODUCED BY TREES SC
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News in a Nutshell is a quarterly publication by TreesSC, PO Box 155, Blacksburg, SC 29702 Email: info@treessc.org www.TreesSC.org
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