MORE TREES, PLEASE!

The multitude of benefits humans receive from trees far outweighs the cost of their planting and maintenance.  Most of us are so far removed from nature that we tend to forget about the trees and their vital importance to humankind.  By planting more trees into our yards and parks, we can help to reconnect with nature, and begin to benefit from all that trees have to offer us.  Some of the paybacks for planting trees include: cleaner air, soil and water, more wildlife food and habitat, beautification, home energy savings, increased real estate value, increased oxygen levels, noise reduction, erosion control, increased privacy and reduced storm water runoff and flooding.  Many trees also provide food for humans, and a number of studies have verified the psychological and health benefits of trees.  Most trees are low maintenance if sited and planted correctly, and will provide a vast diversity of benefits and enjoyment for generations to come.
           
Every time we plant a tree, we are creating a legacy.  Some trees can live for hundreds of years, and their benefits grow exponentially as they mature.  Selecting trees that are native to Ohio will ensure that you are getting the most from your investment.  Trees that are native to Ohio tend to be well adapted to our variable climate and soil conditions, and will bear a host of benefits to local wildlife.  The greater the native tree diversity, the greater diversity of wildlife you will attract.   When we plant trees that are indigenous to our area, we become conservationists, helping to preserve and maintain the fragile balance of nature.
           
Before you purchase trees for your yard, first consider the following:

1. Shade tolerance. Some trees can tolerate more shade, while others require more sun.
2. Ultimate tree size. Wide spreading trees should be planted away from buildings, other trees and power lines, while smaller trees can be planted closer to structures.  Always be aware of encroaching roots and limbs, as these can cause injury to structures.
3. Soil conditions.   Many trees require moist, but well drained soils, while others prefer consistently wet soils.  Some trees can tolerate both wet and dry soil conditions, so select according to soil conditions. 
4. Compatibility.   The trees you select should look and grow well together.  You can create a succession of interest by planting trees that bloom or fruit throughout the growing seasons. 
5. Durability.  Selecting trees that are long-lived and tough is important if they are to provide benefits for generations to come.  Tree planted near roads should be tolerant of salt spray, while trees planted on a slope should be tolerant to drought.

When planting trees, it is best to dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, and backfill the hole with 50% aged compost and 50% existing native soil.  The tree should be planted no deeper than it was planted in the container or burlap.  Trees planted deeper tend to rot, while trees planted higher than the soil level dry out quickly.  If stakes are needed to secure the tree, use only one stake, positioned against the opposing wind current.  Wind movement strengthens tree trunks and roots as the trees sway back and forth. Excess tree stakes will restrict this movement, ultimately weakening the tree.  Always remove stakes after one to two years to prevent wires from girdling (choking) tree trunks.  Roots chase water, so water deep, but infrequently.  An excellent way to water new trees is to slide a garden hose into the soil along the outer edge of the root ball until the hose is positioned near the bottom of the root ball hole.  Turn the hose on a slow trickle so that it can be allowed to run for thirty minutes to an hour.  Most trees should be watered until soil is well saturated, and then should not be watered again until the soil is dry below the surface at hand trowel depth.   In general, trees will establish themselves within 2 years of planting, and will become more sustainable as they mature, requiring low to no watering.  Trees will benefit from an annual organic fertilization program when used as directed.  Organic fertilizers can promote stronger roots, abundant blooming, and faster growth as well as encouraging beneficial soil microbe populations.  Avoid planting fast growing, water-loving trees near septic systems or sewer lines, because they can break or clog pipes, creating a great expense to repair.  When selecting trees, always inspect roots for potential girdling.  Main roots that have a sharp bend can lead to root girdling, so it is better to select trees that do not have root systems that are entwined or matted.  All pests and disease issues can be treated with safe and organic products and techniques.  It is best to use standard arborist pruning techniques when removing limbs from a trees, because an improperly pruned tree limb can lead to increased pest and disease incidence.  For optimal pest resistance, select tree species and varieties that are resistant to the potential insects and diseases of your area.
           
At Marvin’s Organic Gardens, we offer hundreds of beautiful, functional and durable tree options.  Some of our favorites are:

1. Three Flowered and Snakebark Maple         6.  Eastern Redbud
2.  Paw Paw Tree                                                   7.  American Fringe Tree
3. First Lady Ornamental Cherry                         8.  Magnolia species
4. Hardy Rubber Tree                                            9.  Hybrid and Kousa Dogwood
5. Maiden Hair (Ginkgo) Tree                            10. Swamp White and Sawtooth Oak

No matter what your site conditions are, Marvin’s Organic Gardens raises trees for wet to dry soils and sun to shade location in all sizes.  Whatever your trees needs may be, we have a knowledgeable staff of plant experts to help answer any questions you may have.  We also carry a large number of safe and natural organic pest control products, fertilizers, soil amendments and mulches to promote and maintain healthy tree growth.   Planting trees is one of the easiest ways for homeowners to do something positive for our environment and to increase their real estate value.   We would be grateful to assist you at our beautiful garden center, or come to your home to provide a free estimate and talk to you about trees or other landscape opportunities.  Please email me at wes@marvinsorganicgardens.com or call our office at 513-932-3319 to set up an appointment.  Go Organic! It’s Only Natural.