Effective windbreaks can be planted with either conifers, deciduous trees, or a mix of both. Conifer plantings do need not be as dense as plantings of deciduous trees and shrubs for the same effectiveness. Deciduous plantings should mimic a small …
Trees take a long time to become established. How can I know the future or "feel good" about what I do now?
…“Tree time” is slower than most of us have the patience for, yet if you’ve enjoyed the cool shade, beautiful fall color, or wind-breaking gift of a tree, you most likely have someone else to thank. Consider this when taking
Should I remove rootball packing materials when I plant a tree?
Adherence to National Planting Standards (ANSI A300 Part 6) recommends that all rootball-supporting material (burlap and wire basket) should be cut off from the top third of the rootball.
Generally, the less hindrance for roots growing out from the rootball …
Can wood for heating be a clean fuel?
To determine if wood is a clean fuel, we must define what clean means. A ‘dirty’ fuel might include those that produce particulate matter; emit impurities contributing to acid rain or other environmental concerns; are non-renewable resources; and cause lasting …
How can trees extend the life of my pavement, roofing and other man-made materials?
Trees can extend the life of surface materials simply by shading that material from direct sunlight. As someone stands in the sun too long, he or she becomes burned from the sunlight. The same is true for natural and man-made …
How do I properly plant my trees so they will grow well?
Whether your nursery stock is bare-root, balled-and-burlapped, or container grown, the planting hole should be at least twice the width of the root ball, and only as deep as necessary so the root crown is at or slightly above the …
What factors are involved with estimating the net carbon balance of my urban tree?
Estimating a net carbon balance involves the accounting of carbon accumulations and losses. The carbon balance of urban trees includes many factors, many of which are difficult to estimate. The net balance is positive when your tree stores more carbon …
I have power lines in my yard. Which type of trees should I plant near or under them?
You should always avoid planting trees directly under power lines. Planting off to one side of the power line is preferable. Whenever you consider adding a new tree to your property, you should always evaluate the site for your new …
How do urban trees reduce flooding?
Floods can occur anywhere, but urban areas experience increased frequency and severity of flooding events. This is a result of the high percentage of impervious surfaces, such as pavement and roofs, which force water to “run” rather than soak into …
How can I minimize the energy cost of my tree planting and maintenance?
“Energy cost” refers to the amount of energy consumed to do something. One example might be the cost of fuel it takes to transport your planting stock from point A to point B. Another example might be the amount of …