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 can I do in my community to promote energy conservation with trees?
There are many ways you can help promote energy conservation with trees in your own community. A great place to start is with your own neighborhood or homeowners association, if you have one. Seek out experts who can provide your …
What can I do to prepare my trees for hurricane season?
Trees can be damaged or even lost during a hurricane. The strong winds and heavy rains of a hurricane can cause problems for trees, especially those with poor branch structure. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you can take …
What should I do after a storm has damaged my tree(s)?
Storm-damaged trees should be evaluated by a professional arborist. A Certified or Consulting Arborist may recommend removal or various improvement measures such as pruning, cabling, lightning protection, root invigoration, fertilization, etc.
The Arbor Day Foundation has a nice page …
Is there anyone who can give me free advice about the trees near my house?
Trees located in public spaces, such as parks and street rights-of-way, are typically the responsibility of the municipality. If this is the case, consult with the local department of parks and recreation or public works. These departments often have an …
Which trees provide the "best" shade in summer?
It’s true, not all tree shade is created equal. Broad-leaved, deciduous trees, in general, cast a broader shadow than many evergreens, such as pine species. This is due, in part, to the shape of the mature tree canopy. When grown …
What should I look for when selecting a quality tree?
High-quality nursery stock begins with a reputable nursery. Check references or call your local county Extension office for recommendations.
In deciduous trees, look for dark-green, untattered leaves that are well-distributed throughout the crown. For evergreen trees, look for dark-green, firmly …
Planting Urban Trees: Maintenance Requirements
Too often trees are forgotten and not maintained after being planted. A tree requires proper care, especially in the early stages of its development, to prevent health problems. Consider the following checklist when planting a tree:
- Are there adequate resources