Simple Things That Strengthen America: Trees

Trees clean our water.
Trees clean our air.
Animals, including us, need trees.

This Fall, do your bit and plant a tree. Every one helps.

Some simple rules if you are planting:

- Plant when trees are dormant, Fall to late Winter (or early Spring). Most species are becoming dormant now as the weather cools, but the soil is still warm enough for roots to grow before winter. Try to plant before soil temperature has fallen to 40 degrees Fahrenheit to a depth of approximately 8 inches. (This would be late November in zone 5.)

Check with your nurseries or farm extension.

-Transplant a small tree and wait a few years for it to grow up. Let professional tree movers handle large trees.

-Research your tree. Know how tall and wide it’s going to get, so you’re not disappointed in future years nor crowded by a monster. Check its winter hardiness and tolerance of summer heat, or wind.. Note what kinds of trees do well in your area – native trees and plants are tailor-made by nature to survive your territory. Check out your site. Your tree needs space for a lifetime. What is its lifetime? Does it take shade or sun, or a mix?

-Avoid growing up through overhead lines. Keep enough distance from the foundation of your home that major roots will not press against it. Think where large root systems may grow in the future in relation to underground drain tiles, leach beds, utility lines or pipes. Try to choose trees that will tolerate your soil and weather conditions.

There are many non-profit sources of information about selecting and planting your trees. Two excellent ones are:

National Garden Clubs
Headquarters
4401 Magnolia Ave.
St. Louis, Missouri 63110
e-mail: headquarters@gardenclub.org
home page: http://www.gardenclub.org

and

The National Arbor Day Foundation
100 Arbor Ave.
Nebraska City, NE 68410
home page: http://www.arborday.org

Also check your local garden center, botanical garden, conservation department, arborists, or library.

We suggest the new American Liberty Elm, virtually immune to Dutch Elm disease and available with a guarantee. This is a famous American favorite that has come back, grows fast; and is destined to reach 60-100 feet; spread 40-65 feet, in full sun. Available from The Elm Research Institute at 1-800/FOR-ELMS or www.forelms.org