My Reagan tree

I planted a Shumard Oak (Quercus Shumardii) in my back yard on June 5, 2004. You may or may not remember that this was the day that President Ronald Reagan died. It was coincidence that had me planting a tree that day. I bought the tree on June 4th. Lowe’s had a sale to which all their trees were deeply discounted; no doubt because no one buys trees in the summer, it’s the worst time to plant them. Nevertheless, I could not pass up a good deal so I bought it. Back on point, this coincidence was not lost on me. I was hit hard by his death. Being born in 76, Reagan was the first president that I can remember. I grew up under his presidency and as it turns out Reagan had a lot do with my parents turning from the democrat party. I think growing up in a conservative home under the Reagan administration had a lot to do with my political leanings today. So I was proud to take that coincidence and pretend it was on purpose.

I knew that the middle of the summer would not be the best time to plant a tree, so I took extra care in the method of planting. You may have heard the old adage, “Buy a five dollar plant and dig a fifty dollar hole.” That’s what I did. I dug a wide hole and planted the tree with a good mix of soil. I figured if I could keep it alive through the summer that I might have a chance, and then my only obstacle would be the winter. If the tree could come out of hibernation in the spring I’d be home free.

Well since the first hint of spring, I have been waiting with bated breath for signs that my Reagan tree would wake from its slumber, and I have good news! It has green buds all over! I’m very excited.
Technorati Tags: Shumard+Oak Reagan