Many people fear approaching densely vegetated areas around urban parks or in parking lots at night, or share a perception that trees and shrubs might give criminals a hiding spot.
Kuo and Sullivan (2001) examined evidence from past research and …
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
How do I plant a windbreak?
A windbreak can provide protection from winter winds and help conserve energy through reduced heating costs.
Block prevailing winter winds that generally come from the north or northwest by planting evergreen trees and shrubs on the north or northwest side …
What costs are associated with maintaining trees over their lifetime?
Trees should be properly maintained by carrying out basic maintenance activities, such as mulching, watering, soil testing, fertilizing, and protection.
Mulching is typically needed on a periodic basis (every 1-3 years), but watering, soil testing, fertilizing, and protection should only …
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 …
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 …
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 do I prevent my trees from causing problems for my neighbors?
When you plant a tree in your yard, think about all of the ways it will affect your neighbors. Will it shade their garden? Will it push on fences? Will it shade their solar collectors? Of course to assess this, …
Can trees negatively affect energy consumption for heating and cooling?
Trees too close to your home can produce unwanted shade that will decrease sunlight, prevent ice from melting on pavements, and increase heating costs during the winter. To combat these issues, plant deciduous trees that lose their leaves and allow …
What is the minimum number of trees needed in my landscape to provide energy conservation benefits?
Each yard is unique in its orientation to the summer sun, winter winds and spaces available for planting trees. In some situations, your neighbor’s trees may be providing your property with shade, cooling effects or blocking cold winds. In this …