" This time of year, one of the most attractive and noticeable characteristics that the paperbark maple lends to the stark white landscape is its cinnamon-colored, exfoliating bark. Even small branches, as young as two years old, exhibit this characteristic. When purchasing a young specimen, choose one that is already peeling, because if a young tree isn't exfoliating then it probably won't do so in maturity. "

" In the spring as the leaves emerge you will notice they are reddish-maroon in color and lack the typical maple leaf shape. Instead, they are trifoliate, meaning that each leaf has three leaflets. As these leaves mature, they become a dull, dark green, but maintain their unique shape."

" When planting your paperbark maple, place it where it will be able to reach its full height and width (20 to 30 feet by 15 to 30 feet). Also, be sure to choose a site with moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun. However, these trees are adaptable to various soils from clay and pH levels. "

"that the leaves of your houseplants are shiny and sticky or that a black moldy patch seems to be growing on the leaves? If so, now is the time to take a closer look at your houseplants. A variety of insect pests, including aphids, scale, mealybugs and whiteflies, produce a clear sticky substance called honeydew, which causes such symptoms. "

" They are speck-sized, pear-shaped insects. Those found on houseplants are usually green and often congregate just below flower buds or on newly opening leaves or the underside of leaves as well as on flowers. Control these pests by spraying the whole plant with a strong stream of water, repeating as necessary. If this doesn't work, try an insecticidal soap, following
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