Ripples from the Dunes: Trees

Now is the time to plant trees
October 21, 2001

It was a sad day. A majestic 35 year- old maple tree growing in the neighbors' backyard had to be cut down because it had slit down the middle and was endangering the home.

Equally tragic was the loss of a mighty white ash, but it had died and was a menace. It was about as old as the maple: they were probably mere saplings when the surrounding ash forest was cut down to make room for suburban homes of that vintage.

Like all living things, trees die. if you don't want to live on a barren site, plant a new tree. Now is the time of year to do it.

We need trees. They clean the air we breathe and absorb and store carbon, so they are a living way to stave off global warming. They provide food and shelter for many wild creatures... even a dead snag provides for birds, insects, and microscopic plants and animals.

We must plant trees and encourage more planting in public places for next generations to enjoy their value. Autumn is the best time to plant trees, especially deciduous species. Trees planted in the spring suffer because they need a lot of moisture to support their new growth and leaves. Fall planting improves the chance for success for deciduous trees. The young stock has had time to manufacture the needed starches and sugars. During dormancy they will not need abundant moisture
throughout the winter months, and will be ready to start growth in the early spring.

Its a shame to have to cut down a tree, but plan on replacing it, perhaps in a better site than the one before.

Instructions can be found on the best way to plant. First, don't spare the finances. Pick a tree that has some size. Instructions for planting advise as follows: some trees come wrapped in burlap and tied, others come in plastic pots. The hole for the tree should be equal in size and depth to the height of the ball or the flare of the pot. The flare should be at ground level when finished planting. Never carry a tree by its trunk. Lower the tree carefully on its side into the cavity and cut away the wrappings or pot.

Once the tree is in place, fill the hole half full with a moderately improved soil. press down firmly and water well. The advantage of fall planting is that there are no leaves and all the water is available for the roots.

To keep them in good shape trees may need an occasional pruning. Flowering trees tthat bloom in the spring should be pruned right after flowering. Summer or autumn blooming trees should be pruned in winter or early spring.

Plant a tree this fall and watch it grow. When it reaches a point where it needs to be removed, call a professional tree surgeon. They do a great job cleaning up the area- ready for a replacement,