Proper preparation of the planting site is critical to good root development. In urban areas, site preparation may require special planning because of the type of planting site, such as street or parking lot plantings. Also, when preparing the site, …
Urban Soils: Temperature Extremes and Moderating Soil Temperature
Credit: Raina Sheridan
Temperature extremes can alter the chemical and biological characteristics of soils. Urban locations often have higher soil temperatures than rural areas because of the heat that is absorbed by and reflected from buildings, sidewalks, streets, and vehicles. …
Urban Soils: Correcting Low Soil Moisture
Photo Credit: Raina Sheridan
Lack of moisture in the soil is as harmful as too much water. Low soil moisture can be caused by high temperature, drought, high salt content, sandy soils, and improperly timed irrigation systems. Impervious surfaces can …
Urban Soil Problems that Affect Successful Tree Growth and Development
Good Planting and Placement prevents Problems
Many activities in an urban area can change a soil’s physical, chemical, or biological characteristics. Construction and landscape maintenance are the most common of these.…
Arborist: Selection & Services
A professional arborist is a person with experience and training in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. There are two primary types of professional arborists: Certified Arborists and Consulting Arborists. The tree care …
Urban Forests: Understanding Associated Costs
A community receives many benefits from the urban forest; however, there are also costs associated with having a healthy urban forest. Estimates for tree costs in the U.S. range from $12.87 to $65 per tree (McPherson et al. 2005). Working …
Watering Trees in the Urban Environment
Research into the management of urban trees has shown that the frequency of watering is more important than the quantity …
Controlling Weeds around Urban Landscapes
Staking and Guying Landscape Trees
Staking and guying trees provide wind protection and allow trees to grow straight. Though not always necessary, they are useful in certain …
Mulching Trees in the Urban Environment
Placing mulch around trees in urban areas provides numerous benefits. Mulching emulates a duff layer, a layer of organic material that accumulates as leaves fall every year in natural forests. Mulch provides organic material to the soil …