Trees Need TLC continued Tree roots typically grow sideways, and stay fairly shallow, so a wide, shallow hole fills the bill nicely. Make sure there is plenty of loose soil; heavy trees planted on packed backfill can sink. An area of loosened backfill has more pore space than the undisturbed soil, so roots can grow into it quickly. A good rule of thumb is that a tree’s root system should be planted at about the same depth as it grew in the nursery.
Water
A tree given just the right amount of water is a beautiful sight. How much that ‘just right’ amount is varies with the species. “Some trees will tolerate more moist soils,” says Hovland.
“River Birch or Swamp White Oak can handle heavier soils and higher moisture content. But a savannah tree like Burr Oak doesn’t want to be sitting in water.” Too much water can be as bad as too little. Once again, the main issue is oxygen; roots that are drowning are deprived of it. Roots that are constantly under water are also prone to rot. This alone can kill a tree.
Fertilization
If a tree is doing well, it doesn’t need fertilization. In fact, trees are often over-fertilized, according to these experts. It should only be done as needed. If you’re already fertilizing
the lawn, some of that will get to the tree’s roots as well. “Signs of micronutrient deficiency are pretty obvious,” said Steven Geist, Senior Consulting Arborist at Swingle Lawn, Tree and Landscape Care in Aurora, Colorado. “The leaves turn chlorotic (yellow), and they scorch in the summertime.” He suggests testing the soil first to see what’s really required. “In our soils here, phosphorus and potassium are rarely deficient, so we just give them nitrogen.” Hovland recommends a granular, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, raking it into the mulch ring around the tree. (continued on page 18)
LCA MAY MEETING
Wednesday, May 30, 2018; 5:30 pm–8:00 pm | Sponsored by McHale Landscape Design, Inc.
SCHEDULE *
Working seven days a week just to keep up? Take a breather for this rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at McHale Landscape Design, Inc., where you’ll:
6:00 pm–6:45 pm Presentation by Frank Mariani
• Learn how one design/build firm has organized their operations.
6:45 pm–8:30 pm Overview of McHale and Facilities Tour
• Learn the steps they took to grow into the company they are now, and how they continue to expand their business.
* 5:00 pm–5:45 pm, Young and Emerging Professionals Panel Discussion
5:30 pm–6:00 pm Networking, Food, and Fun
LOCATION
• Take a facilities tour and speak with various department heads.
McHale Landscape Design, Inc. 6212 Leaply Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
NEW TRENDS IN HIGH-END RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
REGISTER TODAY!
You’ll also get to hear from the highly respected Frank Mariani, Mariani Landscape, Inc. (owner of the largest privately owned residential landscape company in the U.S.), on New Trends in HighEnd Residential Landscape Architecture. Mariani Landscape is located in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Thank You to Our Exhibitors: JK Enterprise Landscape Supply, LLC Manor View Farm, Inc.
Babikow Greenhouses LandOpt SiteOne Landscape Supply
GROUNDWORK
16
M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 8
Country Springs Wholesale Nursery Lusby Motor Company The Stone Store