ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1995, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, December 14, 1995 TAG: 9512140013
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-6 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
COLUMN: hoein' & growin
SOURCE: JOE HUNNINGS
A citizens' approach to community forestry
It is rare to come across a beautifully shaded avenue lined with mature, spreading trees of the kind that, to many of us, represents the ideal in urban and community tree plantings.
Instead, it often seems that our towns are largely populated by an uninspiring collection of young, struggling trees planted into their designated "planting pits."
The dismal status of many urban, suburban and small-town landscapes may be the result of compacted soil, poor drainage, drought, de-icing salts, poor soil aeration, poor nutrient availability and extreme soil alkalinity.
Horticulturists work hard to provide us with trees and other plantings that give us cooling shade and increased property values. Poor soil conditions, disappearing maintenance budgets, and acts of uninformed citizens can make their job difficult.
By taking a few simple steps, citizens can help protect community plantings rather than harm them.
Keep mowers or string weeders from nicking the bark of trees when you are mowing. Even a small amount of trunk damage can be devastating to a young tree.
A wide ring of mulch is ideal as protection for trees. It also eliminates competition from turfgrass, which can severely slow the growth of young trees. A trunk guard or a planting of ground covers or flowers can be useful, too.
Compacted soil around trees and other plants is caused by cars parked on grass under trees and by repeated foot traffic through planting beds or tree pits. Soil can be compacted to such a density that it becomes virtually impenetrable by roots. Compacted soil also restricts water and air movement in the soil, contributing to drainage problems.
If new trees have been planted in front of your house, water them for the first year or two until they can make it on their own. Newly planted trees should be watered with about 1 inch of water over the entire root surface area at least once a week (through either rain or irrigation) for the first spring and summer. Water during dry periods that last more than two or three weeks in the following growing season.
Refrain from tacking posters or signs to trees. Do not tie string or wire around the trunk or branches. Biodegradable string, such as jute, may pose less of a problem, but damage can occur if it remains for a long period on a tree. Many a tree has been girdled by a forgotten string around the trunk left over from a garage sale banner or other event. Girdling kills trees by cutting off the flow of nutrients and water either by physical restriction or by removing the bark all the way around the trunk.
If the town planted new trees in parks or other public areas more than one year ago and wires and stakes are still in place, call the town to remind them to remove the wires and stakes or remove them yourself to prevent eventual girdling.
Don't dispose of barbecue ashes, leftover drinks, or other items by dumping them on tree roots. Teach children to be careful around delicate, young trees by not swinging or climbing on branches that break easily. Don't allow your bumper to hit trees when you park your car.
Consider getting involved with a volunteer group that works in this field. Many Master Gardener groups, for example, are involved in community tree projects. Contact your local Virginia Cooperative Extension agent or your town horticulturist or forester for more information about volunteer opportunities in your area.
LENGTH: Medium: 67 linesby CNB