### Plant Entry: Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
This compact, upright evergreen shrub boasts a tight pyramidal form and dense branching, making it ideal for hedges, privacy screens, and accent planting. Hardy in zones 3-7, it thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, moderately moist soil. It exhibits excellent deer resistance and adapts well to colder climates, tolerating temperatures as low as -40°F. Reaching a mature height of 10-15 feet with a spread of 3-4 feet, this low-maintenance conifer features vibrant, emerald-green foliage year-round, without significant fall color changes. While it produces inconspicuous 1/2-inch cones, its main appeal lies in its lush, soft texture that adds elegance to any landscape.
### Non-Plant Entry: Squirrel
The squirrel is a small, agile mammal commonly encountered in gardens and wooded areas. While not a plant, it can have a significant impact on outdoor spaces, often foraging for food such as seeds, fruits, and nuts. Squirrels are notable for their playful nature and are both a source of entertainment and occasional frustration to gardeners, as they may dig up bulbs, raid bird feeders, or nibble on soft fruits. To coexist with squirrels, consider squirrel-proof seed feeders, deterrents, or planting species they are less likely to disrupt, such as daffodils, alliums, or thorny shrubs.
### Non-Plant Entry: Specimen
In landscaping terms, a specimen refers to an individual plant selected for its aesthetic qualities or unique features, intended to serve as a focal point in a garden or landscape design. Specimens often have striking shapes, vibrant foliage, unusual flowers, or distinctive bark. These plants are typically displayed in prominent locations where they can be admired on their own or as part of a carefully planned setting. Choosing the right specimen plant depends on climate, soil conditions, and the desired effect, but the result is often a dramatic enhancement to your outdoor space.
