THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, March 10, 1996 TAG: 9603090066
SECTION: HOME PAGE: G6 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY ALAN COOK, SPECIAL TO HOME & GARDEN
LENGTH: Short : 44 lines
DEAD TREES should be removed, and the sooner the better. A large dead tree is a haven for insects.
If a tree threatens life or property, quick removal is recommended.
Trees, small and large, heavily damaged by lightning, vehicle, fire or other external factors, pose a question. If such a tree is likely to die or become a hazard, removal is recommended. Damaged trees, that promise to be forever misshapen and ugly, also qualify for removal.
Misplaced trees, such as those under utility wires and too close to walks, buildings or other plants, should be replaced. Trees with armies of vicious thorns, such as Washington hawthorn, may be a threat to safety and also should be removed.
There are ``litterbug trees'' that are forever dropping spent parts. These include catalpa, sycamore, saucer magnolia and sweetgum. All of them shed something all year long and should be replaced. Crape myrtles, a favorite in this area, should not be planted near sidewalks or pools, because they shed all summer.
High-maintenance trees require a lot of pruning.
The pears, with their narrow crotches, tend to split, which ruins the tree.
Many locusts sprout roots anywhere, especially in lawns and nearby flower beds (often those of neighbors), and should be replaced. Yaupon holly will do the same undesirable sprouting. For low-maintenance, such trees should be replaced.
Some trees make objectional surface roots, which make mowing difficult. In that category are bald cypress, silver maple, sweetgum and the poplars.
Most homeowners don't want tree roots sticking up in their lawns, so consider replacing those trees. MEMO: Alan Cook is with The Dawes Arboretum in Ohio.
KEYWORDS: WEEDER'S DIGEST by CNB