FHGC Board Highlights:

Clay Soil Makes Grass Difficult to Grow

Maintaining a curb plot in Forest Hills Gardens requires a strategic approach that considers the neighborhood’s historical and geological context. As discussed in the Summer 2022 newsletter, the diverse soil types in our area can pose challenges for gardening. Our yards are composed of sediment left behind by a terminal moraine during the Ice Age, which varies from dense clay to loose sand. This composition makes gardening a bit of a challenge.

The first step is to address the sediment’s composition. Core aeration is crucial to combat compaction, creating channels for root growth and amendment penetration. After aerating, amend the ground to make it suitable for plants. The article suggests specific amendments based on sediment type: for dense, clay-like spots, add peat moss and sand to loosen the material and improve drainage; for sandier areas, incorporate manure and topsoil to add nutrients. This “building” of the soil is vital, similar to what our earliest residents and Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. faced.

Beyond solid amendments, liquid compost and fertilizers play distinct but complementary roles. Liquid compost introduces beneficial microbes missing from the sediment, creating a living ecosystem. Fertilizers provide direct nutrients for the grass. Use a zero-phosphorus (0% P) slow-release fertilizer, as required by state law. A good strategy is to first enrich the sediment with liquid compost, then follow up with a slow-release fertilizer.

A soil test is crucial to determine if lime pellets are needed to correct pH, which can be affected by street runoff. Pelletized lime is preferred because it’s less dusty, easier to apply evenly with a spreader, and breaks down slowly when wet. Finally, over-seed with a durable grass blend (high in Tall Fescue and Perennial Ryegrass) to ensure a thick, robust lawn that can withstand the unique challenges of your curb plot.

Photos before and after:

Fall is the perfect time to set your yards and curb plots up for springtime success.

Halloween Etiquette

As we embrace the Halloween spirit, it's important to recognize that while this festive occasion brings joy to many children and families, there are some residents in our beloved Forest Hills Gardens who may prefer a quieter evening.

To foster a sense of community and inclusivity, we encourage everyone to express their Halloween preferences through their porch lighting—turning on your light invites friendly "ghosts and ghouls" to stop by, while turning it off signals that you might be out of treats or simply ready for a peaceful night.

Let's celebrate the delightful diversity of our neighborhood with a sprinkle of humor and respect, ensuring that all residents feel comfortable and included. Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season filled with laughter and camaraderie!



Trick or Treating:

Participate in Good Spirit

Celebrating Halloween in Forest Hills Gardens is a long-standing tradition and a fun and memorable night in our neighborhood. As a known destination in Queens for trick or treating, residents should expect high volumes of children participating in the festivities from

4 pm onward, especially around Hawthorne Park and adjacent streets. Below are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and safe holiday for all: 

Tips for witches, ghosts, and goblins visiting homes:

• Visit each home only once 
• Skip homes that don't have a porch light on
• Use caution when approaching front doors and avoid stepping on or trampling the homeowner’s gardens
• Wait your turn to approach the door and refrain from pushing others 

Tips for homeowners: 

• Avoid giving candies that may be choking hazards to young children 
• If possible avoid treats that contain allergens, such a nuts 
• Consider giving non-candy handouts such as stickers, glow sticks, or small toys 
• Turn off your porch light and possibly place a sign on your door indicating when candy has run out

Halloween Safety for All

Halloween is a busy time in the Gardens! As we potentially receive lots of ghouls and ghosts on our front steps, be sure to exercise caution when opening your door, especially later in the evening.

While Burns Street will remain open throughout the day, we should all express our gratitude for the steadfast presence of the 112th Precinct in our community, whose dedicated service plays a vital role in maintaining our safety during this festive time.

Let us take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the officers for their commitment to the security and safety of all in the Gardens.

Search for 2011 FH Gardens Calendar

If you've recently visited the FHG Foundation website, you will see that it now features the wonderful seasonal photos captured over the years by various Gardens residents in an annual calendar. The calendars were first produced in 2009 and 2010 by the FHGC Centennial Committee with help from Friends of Station Square and then continued to be distributed annually by Terrace Sotheby's International Realty.

A lovely snapshot of the Gardens during various seasons, the complete collection is now archived by the FHG Foundation and available on their website--however, one year is missing - 2011. Do you by chance have a saved 2011 calendar the Foundation can scan in order to complete its archived set? If so, please email foresthillsgardensfoundation@gmail.com.

Time to Turn Off Sprinklers

As the days get shorter, now is the time to drain your outdoor faucets and blow out your sprinkler systems. Book an appointment with your service provider now.