Arbor Day in Indiana is the fourth Friday in April. This year, the new Brown History Center and the Nashville Tree Board, through a grant from the Brown County Lions Club, saw a flowering dogwood planted at the History Center by Dean Shertz of Brown Hill Nursery.

This is one of many trees that eventually will be planted at the History Center.

The first Arbor Day was observed in 1872 in Nebraska as a brainchild of Sterling Morton. He believed the health of the country would benefit from the planting of trees in cities, towns and yards. At this time, all 50 states have an Arbor Day based on the climate of each state.

Spring is a great time to plant the spring-blooming trees, but fall is also a wonderful time to plant many other varieties of trees.

Trees can bring beauty and value to your property and provide cooling to homes in the summer months and protection in the winter months.

Be aware of invasive insects and make sure you look your trees over to be sure they are healthy. Insects and disease can take your trees if you are not doing your part in giving them the attention they need. Checking for dead branches and pruning when needed will enhance their beauty.

The Brown County Soil and Water Conservation District office, on Memorial Drive at the fairgrounds, has a publication, “Your Yard, Your Trees: A Homeowner’s Guide,” that will help you choose the right tree for the right place. It is full of helpful information.

And remember, plant native!

Call the office at 812-988-2211 if you would like to have a copy, or drop by.

Cathy Paradise is manager of the Brown County Soil and Water Conservation District.