Thank you for your valuable input, Rhizo. After reading your post, I reread about neem use against psyllids. "Results have generally been poor against whiteflies, pepper maggots, and psyllids." (Source: www.nysaes.cornell.edu/pp/resourceguide/mfs/08neem.php) Another, albeit specifically mentioning tomato/potato psyllids (not sure if its the same psyllid): "Soap spray results have been disappointing and neem has not worked." (Source: www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/4DMG/Pests/psyllids.htm) Does anyone have knowledge of neem's ability to have systemic effects on Pepper Psyllid on the Brazilian Pepper tree? I am tempted to mix up a batch of Neem Concentrate (www.greenlightco.com/products/neem/)and water the tree roots. Good idea or bad idea? If good idea, would the Neem mix rate per gallon of water would be the same for systemic application (2 tablespoons per gallon) as it is for foliar spraying? btw, Rhizo, you are so right about Ladybugs. In the past, when I have released thousands in one day, only a few dozen insects stay around. I wish that my neighbors on all sides would release thousands, maybe some would flee to my property... Here is a link that might be useful: Green Light brand Neem Concentrate BOTTLE LABEL (pdf)

J0nd03- that ft.mcnair is a beautiful tree. Ill have to see what the specs are on it as far as tolerances/preferences. Tornado- no offense taken at all, I'm quite long winded myself (I am a car salesman!) and I love taking politics but unfortunately from what I have learned (perhaps its the area we live in?) most discussions about politics/govt matters turn into a pissing contest/yelling match because when someone has a differeing view than I yet cannot support their claims/reasons for their beliefs they get defensive and resort to un civilized behavior. I think it's hilarious but sure you have experenced it as well! ;) I really appreciate the info your giving me. From what I have read/picked up from folks (a good friend of mine is a horticulture major/landscape business owner) these beech trees will maintain their vibrant foliage as long as they are kept hydrated. I'm site the tree in your pics gets pruned/pest control done professionally and regularly but I'm not sure about the watering part too much?

it is a conifer ... and they hold their leaves/needles.. from one to 3 years ... the oldest leaves are interior ... and as they age.. and get shaded by newer growth ... they yellow and fall off ... in snow country.. it can be increased significantly by a bad winter .. of which. seattle doesnt have ... just fyi .. or severe drought the summer before.. which again.. you wouldnt have ... it is entirely normal ... when your current growth tips yellow ... and then brown.. is when you have problems to think or worry about ... ken btw: if you track from the tip.. in toward the trunk.. the bark changes per year ... so you could probably SEE/estimate .... how old those leaves are ...

You can grow almost anything there . I loive in Creston same basic zone. What is the black rectangle space is that going to be a patio? I think it would be helpful to show use in a scaled drawing exactly what the whole space will look like when finished .