https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2015/01/09/oldest-trees-on-boston-common/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rs-shaw-mem-elms-pruned.jpgRS Shaw Mem elms prunedHere's what the elms look like with still more weight taken out of their tops. Retrenchment pruning of veteran trees is radically different from structural or maintenance pruning of younger trees.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rs-elm-vault.jpgRS elm vaultThese elms are actually rooted several feet below the memorial's floor grade, in a vault built into the Common's slope.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rs-cropped-shaw-elms.jpgRS cropped Shaw Elmshttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rs-shaw-mem-elms.jpgRS Shaw Mem elms2017-07-15T13:40:19+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2014/12/22/explaining-the-odd-shape-of-trees-in-winter-load-reduction-pruning/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/tree_pruning_dec_enews.jpgtree_pruning_Dec_enewshttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/claire_corcoran_photo.jpgClaire_Corcoran_photo2014-12-22T19:57:58+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2014/11/17/team-friends/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/rs-beech-buds1.jpgRS beech budshttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/1404-rs-pilot-area1.jpg1404 RS Pilot AreaBoylston Street Border Pilot Area, Boston Public Garden, renovated in 2013 and blooming in Spring 2014. First we had all trees and shrubs pruned, and then we transplanted broadleaf and needled evergreens, added benches, improved drainage, and augmented existing plantings with more evergreen and deciduous shrubs, hosta and astilbe, and thousands of spring bulbs and ephemerals. Renovation will continue until the entire 840-foot long border has been rehabilitated.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/rs-beech-buds.jpgRS beech budshttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/1404-rs-pilot-area.jpg1404 RS Pilot AreaBoston Public Garden's Boylston Street Border Pilot Area in Spring 2014. We balanced the border's plantings, augmenting the Amelanchier structure with broadleaf and needled evergreens, deciduous shrubs, hosta and astilbe, and hundreds of spring bulbs and ephemerals.2014-11-20T16:11:50+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2014/06/29/loss/2014-06-29T21:51:31+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/10/11/big-leafed-update/2014-01-31T21:48:15+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/09/22/bare-root-fastigiate-beech-transplant/2014-01-24T13:05:07+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/07/31/katsura-update/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/1307-umass-katsura.jpg1307 UMass katsuraEven in a backlit shot on a very hot day this tree is looking happy.2013-07-31T18:22:08+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/07/10/trees-in-the-home-landscape/2013-07-10T15:36:39+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/04/25/2013-arbor-day-of-service-2/2013-04-25T03:59:31+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/02/25/the-taproot-question-again/2017-08-28T01:52:14+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/02/11/moving-maturity/2022-12-29T01:51:35+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2013/01/22/underground-peek/2013-01-22T19:38:05+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2012/11/18/elm-root-growth/2022-03-19T17:05:17+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2012/11/15/hornbeam-progress/2012-11-15T21:42:53+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2012/09/05/blow-off-the-cobwebs/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc008141.jpgDSC00814Watering in a newly planted tree-form Taxus from Weston Nurseries.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dsc00814.jpgDSC008142012-09-05T20:34:51+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2012/04/02/another-species-transplanted-with-air-tools/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/rs-cimg3424-copy.jpgRS CIMG3424 copyThe tree being moved to its new home in a 3-4' tall planter on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Congress Street. Burlap tied under the root mass helps contain loose soil during the move.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/cimg34163.jpgCIMG3416https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/cimg34162.jpgCIMG3416This 8.5″ caliper weeping hornbeam tree is getting transplanted from a 3-4′ deep planter bed on the corner of Congress Street and Atlantic Avenue in downtown Boston. Note the pigtails on the tree’s near side, and the thick burlap wrapping to protect its trunk.2012-04-17T12:37:41+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2011/10/27/remarkable-weeping-hemlock/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rshemlock-bw.jpg111027 RShemlock B&WMagnificent.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-inside-bw2.jpg111027 RS inside B&W2https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-inside-bw.jpg111027 RS inside B&WNot much greenery inside the tree, but plenty outside to make this limb-framed cave.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rsinside.jpg111027 RSinsideUnderneath, from a different angle. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-underneath.jpg111027 RS underneathUnder the canopy.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-inside-wcc.jpg111027 RS inside wCCCarl under the canopy. Note the size of the stems compared the the size of his torso.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-overall2.jpg111027 RS overall2A slightly different angle.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/111027-rs-overall.jpg111027 RS overallThe hemlock from one angle. It sits on a large lawn where it has been allowed to grow in full sun and without competition from other trees.2011-10-28T21:44:38+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2011/07/30/how-not-to-plant-a-tree/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead91.jpg110729 Wwood dead9Egh. More of the same.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead81.jpg110729 Wwood dead8All of the trees are planted on sloping ground, but hardly look it -- another indication that root balls and water wells are too small. Got mulch, anyone? Particularly in this type of sandy soil, a watering schedule and at least a temporary irrigation system (set up to last and run through the first growing season) would help establish the trees. Planting like this has consigned what were once good trees to the chipper.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead71.jpg110729 Wwood dead7Another tiny root ball, with a mini-well. The well is very loosely constructed; water has broken through and run down the sandy slope, leaving the tree high and dry. This photo makes me thirsty.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead62.jpg110729 Wwood dead6Tiny root ball? Perhaps. For a 3" caliper tree like this , ANSI standards call for a 32" diameter root ball. The well on this root ball is about 18" in diameter, so it looks as if the root ball is small -- but it may simply be that the well itself is inadequate. Wells should be built outside the root ball wall, so that water is held over the root ball and over the interface between surrounding soil and root ball soil, and so promotes root growth beyond the root ball. Not to mention that these trees were placed right at the drive edge, where their root cannot spread out under the asphalt, and the weight and pressure of plowed snow can tip them...https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead41.jpg110729 Wwood dead4That pile of soil in the foreground is the native soil on this New England upland slope, thin and sandy, with little organic material evident. It appears that the new trees were planted directly into this soil without amendment -- which is fine, as long as the planting crew worked on the root balls to make a rougher interface between root ball soil and native soil. Because water will only move from soil of one porosity to another when the soil is saturated, and roots follow water, you want to scuff up the walls of a root ball to make a less distinct interface between the two soils, and to encourage water and roots to cross the interface.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead21.jpg110729 Wwood dead2From the school drive above the slope, the view is as disappointing. The pears look like the toughest of the new trees out there. Fall color in July is never a good sign, but at least they still have leaves. The zelkovas are mostly bare. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead-trees22.jpg110729 Wwood dead trees2It was impossible to miss this planting from the road below. Virtually every newly planted tree is either dead or nearly so.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead9.jpg110729 Wwood dead9Egh. More of the same.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead8.jpg110729 Wwood dead8All of the trees are planted on sloping ground, but hardly look it -- another indication that root balls and water wells are too small. Got mulch, anyone? Particularly in this type of sandy soil, a watering schedule and at least a temporary irrigation system (set up to last and run through the first growing season) would help establish the trees. Planting like this has consigned what were once good trees to the chipper.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/110729-wwood-dead7.jpg110729 Wwood dead7Another tiny root ball, with a mini-well. The well is very loosely constructed; water has broken through and run down the sandy slope, leaving the tree high and dry. This photo makes me thirsty!2012-03-16T14:02:48+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2011/07/02/boston-hemlock/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/hemlock-partheno2.jpghemlock parthenoBoston ivy uses this dead hemlock tree as a climbing structure; its owners choose to let the tree stand and continue as a feature in their courtyard garden. Mature trees are rare in tiny Beacon Hill gardens; 'repurposing' this one turns it from an eyesore into an asset.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/hemlock-partheno1.jpghemlock parthenoThe owners of this dead hemlock chose not to remove the tree, but rather to let Boston ivy cover it with greenery.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/hemlock-partheno.jpghemlock parthenoThe owners of this dead hemlock chose to let Boston ivy run over the tree, rather than taking it down.2011-07-02T22:41:47+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/10/30/air-tool-transplant-challenge-excavate-and-move/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-moving-21.jpgveron moving 2The pine moving to its new home on the other side of the house.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-moving-2.jpgveron moving 2The pine heading toward its new home, in a bed on the other side of the house.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-moving-1.jpgveron moving 1Anyone else reminded of a bride with a really long train? One major difference: a bride doesn't require heavy machinery to move around.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-moving-31.jpgveron moving 3Closeup of the two monster roots extending away from the house and drive.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-moving-3.jpgveron moving 3Closeup of the two monster roots facing away from the house and drive.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/v0ron-moving-3.jpgv0ron moving 3https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-white-pine-digging-3.jpgveron white pine digging 3Moving the excavated pine was the trickiest part. Mike and his helper used a Bobcat and a Dingo -- tricky to coordinate both machines at once.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-white-pine-digging-21.jpgveron white pine digging 2The Pine ready for its move. These lawn-side roots are sixteen to eighteen feet long. Compare that root length to the accepted standard size of a B&B root ball, which allows ten inches of root-mass diameter for one inch of trunk caliper. For an apples to apples comparison, if we include the three feet of root on the tree's other side, this tree has 19 to 21 feet of root extension, as opposed to the 6-foot, 8-inch root mass diameter you would see on a B&B specimen. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-white-pine-digging-2.jpgveron white pine digging 2The Pine ready for its move. These lawn-side roots are sixteen to eighteen feet long. Compare that root length to the accepted standard size of a B&B root ball, which allows ten inches of root-mass diameter for one inch of trunk caliper. For an apples to apples comparison, if we include the three feet of root on the tree's other side, this tree has 19-21 feet of root extension, as opposed to the 6'8https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/veron-pine-diggiing.jpgveron pine diggiingTremendous root extension can be kept with air-tool excavating, and while not all fine roots remain, a significant number of them do.2011-05-18T19:46:11+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/10/12/air-spade-transplanting/2011-10-26T21:05:44+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/06/root-flare/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/parry-maple-flare.jpgParry maple flareEver seen a sugar maple with knees? 2011-10-27T01:58:06+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/10/10/root-washing-in-sudbury/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/dscn7744.jpgDSCN7744Leaning into the root ball. Lower water pressure may be a bit easier for those tiny feeder roots, but high pressure makes getting the hard clay soil off a faster process. It's not clear yet how feeder root regrowth is affected by this kind of treatment, whether the pressure comes from air or water. Early reactions seem promising, but it may be several years before a re-examination of the roots shows how risks and benefits balance..2011-05-18T19:43:02+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/18/a-note-of-thanks/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10304302.jpgp1030430Carl Cathcarthttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030378_25.jpgp1030378_2Matt Fotihttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030378_24.jpgp1030378_2https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10304293.jpgp1030429Mike Furgalhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10304301.jpgp1030430Carl Cathcarthttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030430.jpgp1030430https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030378_23.jpgp1030378_2Matt Fotihttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030378_22.jpgp1030378_2Matt Fotihttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030378_21.jpgp1030378_2https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10304291.jpgp1030429Mike Furgal2011-05-18T19:36:41+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2011/05/16/to-the-beech/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/1105-jalexander-inarched-beech1.jpg1105 JAlexander inarched beechThe newly inarched beech, with three of the four saplings planted and grafted above the beech's graft point visible here. Matching the cambium of the saplings to the cambium of the mature tree allows photosynthate from the tree's crown to flow down the sapling trunks, supplying them with nutrients that otherwise would serve to overenlarge the beech's trunk just above the graft point, making the tree more susceptible to failure. The inarched saplings benefit from the abundance of photosynthate, and in turn enhance the tree's stability.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/1105-jalexander-inarched-beech.jpg1105 JAlexander inarched beechhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/110421-beech-grafts.jpg110421 beech graftsThree buttresses are visible in this image; the smallest is about 6" dbh.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/110421-beech-fill.jpg110421 beech fillThe beech from a different angle. What look like elephant legs under the tree are the ingrafted saplings that have now become living buttresses.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/110421-cc-beech.jpg110421 CC & beechCarl Cathcart with the grafted and inarched specimen weeping beech.2011-05-18T14:29:35+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2011/04/11/ancient-trees/2011-04-11T17:15:06+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/05/16/air-spade-in-action/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010409.jpgp1010409The trussed holly, now untied and moved to the planting bed, is at the back right of the photo. Liberated from the crush of a too-tight hedge planting, it has opened out to cover almost nine feet of fence. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010479.jpgp1010479Hand-dug holly that has been bare-rooted being prepared for transplant. Notice the clumps of hard, heavy soil from its original root ball lying around it; the wire basket is lying off to the left. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010388.jpgp1010388One holly, trussed for moving. Ten of these plants had been placed on 3' centers to make a hedge; when freed from the hedge, each one opened out to cover at least seven feet in breadth.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010457.jpgp1010457Holes for holly transplants were dug by air spade, to minimize disturbance to the roots of the treeform yew hedge behind the plywood.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010447.jpgp1010447Breaking up the clay soil in the root ball of a 4' rhododendron.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/p1010376.jpgp1010376Removing a girdling root from the Japanese maple. Note the root-ball soil line, four inches up the tree's trunk from the base of the trunk flare.2010-11-28T22:44:01+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/05/21/refinement/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1010537.jpgp1010537https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1000763_2.jpgp1000763_2https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1010402.jpgp10104022010-11-28T22:43:50+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/05/baring-all/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1010697.jpgp1010697Chionanthus retusus, Swan Point Cemetery2010-11-28T22:43:33+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/07/31/air-tool-excavation-london-planes/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020473.jpgp1020473The transplanted tree seven hours later, in its new home.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020478.jpgp1020478Minor pruning to fix a lamppost-branch conflict.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020479.jpgp1020479Two to four inches of mulch is added around the tree, and kept away from the trunk.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020469.jpgp1020469The tree, post-planting. The arborists assessed how deep the root mass was and how it was formed, and dug the planting hole to accommodate, roughly, its form. Once the tree is placed in the hole, the roots are spread out radially by hand, and loam shovelled in around, under, and over them. Watering starts during the digging process, once the tree has been levelled, so that a loam slurry anchors the root plate and tree to its new site. A well is formed to retain moisture and more water is added.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020451.jpgp1020451Compare this root plate to that of a B&B tree, or a tree-spaded one (though this tree is too large for a tree spade), and it's clear what an advance this technology promises to be in benefiting the health of trees to be transplanted. The tree's energy reserves are largely stored in the roots; save the roots, reduce stress on the tree, and speed re-establishment after planting.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020450.jpgp1020450Big machine, bigger tree. The root plate on this tree extended about 18 feet across at its maximum width. Transporting a large, upright live tree is a slow-speed operation.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020445.jpgp1020445A pause for the forks to be positioned more firmly.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020442.jpgp1020442Lifting and backing, slowly and very carefully.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020441.jpgp1020441Giant forks have been run under the tree, and the loader is getting ready to lift it. Four taglines are visible in this shot; they won't prevent the tree from falling, but help indicate how it is balanced during the move.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020439.jpgp1020439Padding the trunk with layers of burlap for the move.2010-11-28T22:43:24+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/03/bare-root-comments-and-observations/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020461.jpgp1020461Lots of root mass. Irrigation lines run through it; they are cut during the trenching process, and then pulled out in feet-long lengths once enough soil has been blown away from the roots.2010-11-28T22:43:12+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/06/heres-why-to-plant-bare-root-2/2010-11-28T22:42:28+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/07/air-tool-observations/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/5.jpg#5Keeping the pigtails neat from the start makes unbundling and spreading the roots fairly easy. The tree is now resting in the crater dug for its new home; the crew will unbundle and spread the roots out radially, pack soil underneath them to help level the tree, and backfill, water, and mulch the transplant. Using a forklift allows the arborists to look under the root plate and gauge its bottom profile, which helps in shaping the floor of the planting crater. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/3.jpg#3This project took place in late July, during a week of 85-degree heat. Leaf turgor pressure was maintained throughout by the trees themselves (aided with some in-process watering).https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/4.jpg#4Here is what a well-tied tree looks like in transit. Note how the roots have been carefully pigtailed, and tiebacks to the tree\'s trunk are done neatly and professionally, to preserve the roots during excavation and the move.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/1.jpg#1Air-tool excavation is a very messy process, and it bears mentioning again that eye, ear, head, and face protection are really necessary. Mike Furgal is wearing a face mask here; a respirator would give him even greater lung protection. Blowing a good sandy loam is one thing; when pebbles and small rocks show up in the soil they become missiles, so long sleeves and pants should also be worn.2021-05-21T16:06:16+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/24/air-tool-seminar/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/4.jpg#4...while preserving this much root mass.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/3.jpg#3Bare-rooting allows for the moving of a tree this large in less than one day...2010-11-28T22:41:59+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/10/05/girdling-roots/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p10001861.jpgp1000186These two girdling roots started out as thin, wirelike strands growing past the trunk of a sapling.2010-11-28T22:41:04+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/23/note-on-older-posts/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020066.jpgp1020066Cute little dwarf liquidambar, freed from its container and soil washed away with the hose, ready to have its circling roots unwound, spread radially (as best as possible), and planted.2010-11-28T22:40:32+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/21/air-tool-transplant-norway-spruce-part-1/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/burlap.jpgburlapThe root mat rolled up and bound in burlap for further blowing-out and moving.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/pruning2.jpgpruning2Still pruning the mat, and rolling it up toward the trunk to blow soil out from under the tree.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/pruning.jpgpruningThe crew discovered that the spruce was anchored with a thick mat of fibrous roots; they found virtually no roots larger than 1/2" in diameter. Here, they are pruning root ends under the foot-plus deep mat. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/root-ball.jpgroot ballEdges of the original B&B root ball are barely visible here; it was roughly 24-30" across. Rolando and Sonia discovered the wire basket still around it.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/spading2.jpgspading2Blowing soil off the roots took about three hours. Sonia likes to divide the root mass diameter into quadrants and work systematically, while Rolando prefers to work all around the tree; when they work in tandem they use whichever method fits the site conditions best.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/spading1.jpgspading1Sonia and Rolando, kitted out in their PSE: coveralls, gloves, hats and hoods, ear protection, eye protection, and respirators.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/compressors.jpgcompressorsCurrently, the grounds crew rents compressors. These two generated air for an Air Knife and an Air Spade.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/treeold1.jpgtreeoldFifteen-foot Norway spruce in its original location next to the campus pond. The crew discovered that the Norway's roots were interwoven with roots from other nearby trees. This tree was flat on the side facing the fence.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/treeold.jpgtreeoldhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/spraying.jpgsprayingSonia Baerhuk marking out the new location of a 15' Norway spruce to be relocated.2010-11-28T22:39:55+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/22/air-tool-transplant-norway-spruce-part-2/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/watering.jpgwateringWith the berm in place, Sonia waters the backfill thoroughly. Some crews backfill and water simultaneously, "mudding in" the tree for extra stability and the complete elimination of air pockets. Mulch will go on this new planting next, and then more water.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/berm.jpgbermWith backfilling complete, the crew builds a berm. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/digging-in2.jpgdigging in2Sonia and Rolando spread soil under and over the roots as they unroll them from the bundle. Note that they are using soil excavated from the site, with no amendments. Bare-root transplanting eliminates the difficulties associated with moisture transfer between two types of soil (root ball soil and soil outside the root ball), which makes establishment in its new site less stressful for the tree. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/digging-in1.jpgdigging in1Rolando and Santo shovel native soil under the rolled-up root mat, to secure and level the tree before its roots get spread out.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/setting-in1.jpgsetting inRolando guides Mynor in setting the tree in the right spot. Good communication is key through this entire project, and these guys were excellent in coordinating their work with each other.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/setting-in.jpgsetting inhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/soil-pad.jpgsoil padAdditional native soil is added and compacted to make a pad under the trunk. When in doubt, it's better to place the tree slightly higher in its new location than to risk it settling deeper once it has been backfilled and watered in; tamping the soil firmly under and around the roots right at the tree's base helps insure both that the soil won't subside and that air pockets are eliminated.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/transport2.jpgtransport2Sonia and Rolando used a rake handle and tape measure to determine the root mass's depth before adjusting soil depth in the new hole.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/new-hole.jpgnew holeMynor had dug out the hole with the Bobcat while Sonia and Rolando blew out the soil from around the tree. This site, next to a busy campus parking lot, challenged the crew to place the tree carefully. Cars were parked just to the right of the orange barrier in this photo, and other relocated trees ringed the dish on two other sides, so maneuvering to get the tree in place was a bit tricky. It's relatively easy to spin at least a small B&B tree to the right orientation; turning an air-spaded tree requires a bit more forethought. In this situation, a bit of three-dimensional visualization was necessary to be sure that the flat side faced away from the parking lot. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/roots.jpgrootsCloseup of the root mass. Virtually all of the roots on this tree were quite thin, and they made a dense mat.2010-11-28T22:39:30+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/12/11/air-tool-transplant-of-a-beech-tree/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040519.jpgp1040519The 30-foot high tree being lowered onto a specially rigged trailer for transport. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040494.jpgp1040494So that's what a beech's roots look like. This tree had been transplanted with a tree spade about 20 years ago, and it was possible to look under the root plate and see where severed roots had sprouted out.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040471.jpgp1040471Giant root mass preserved by air excavation. Note the trunk's heavy padding, and pigtailing of the roots.2010-11-28T22:39:05+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/12/15/whats-wrong-with-these-pictures/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040946_2.jpgp1040946_2https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040945.jpgp1040945https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040944.jpgp10409442010-11-28T22:38:45+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/02/02/when-they-say-taking-place-in-the-trees-they-mean-it/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/flickr-tree-house.jpgflickr tree houseFlickr image by dagochan*552013-04-23T19:59:01+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/04/12/air-tool-questions-part-1/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/p1040694-e1272581609623.jpgp1040694The newly tarped root plate getting sprayed down with water before the tree's drive to another site.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/p1040673-e1272581697264.jpgp1040673Jonathan Bransfield spraying down the root plate of a tree with water and a 1% solution of Wilt-Pruf before tarping. Hydrogel was used in the backfill at planting.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/p1020132.jpgp1020132Interwoven roots of two trees to be moved makes the excavating process more time-consuming.2015-08-10T18:30:33+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/06/21/herbie-the-next-phase/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/rs-herbie-ground.jpgRS herbie groundAll that remains are wood chips, an open space, and a view of the utility pole.2010-06-21T13:51:38+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/05/24/root-issues/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/butt-end-circling-roots.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAHere's the tree's underside. Note the girdling root snaking on top of the big torn root facing the camera, and the curiously self-contained look of this root mass. The tree's problems likely began early in its life.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/circling-roots.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAFibrous roots circling the six-inch red maple trunk.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/deb-circling-root.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAPulled away from the trunk, the roots clearly are circling it. Over time, as the tree grew in girth, these roots likely would have constricted the flow of nutrients between root mass and crownhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1010017.jpgp1010017Here's the tree's underside. Note the girdling root snaking on top of the big torn root facing the camera, and the curiously self-contained look of this root mass. The tree's problems likely began early in its life.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1010016.jpgp1010016Fibrous roots circling the six-inch red maple trunk.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1010009.jpgp1010009Pulled away from the trunk, the roots clearly are circling it. Over time, as the tree grew in girth, these roots likely would have constricted the flow of nutrients between root mass and crown.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1010008.jpgp1010008Six-inch trunk surrounded by fibrous roots.2010-05-24T22:18:17+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/01/23/video/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/mike-pigtailing.jpgMike pigtailingThe first of five 12-14' caliper London Plane trees being excavated with air tools and transplanted bare root in August 2009.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/p1020463.jpgp1020463The first of five 12-14' caliper London Plane trees being excavated with air tools and transplanted bare root in August 2009.2010-05-24T15:09:20+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/10/07/the-garden-professors/2010-05-11T14:18:00+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/13/the-season-for-burning-bush/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ealata-wild1.jpgEalata wildhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ealata-tame.jpgEalata tameRight around the bend from the stream was this beefy looking Burning Bush, an obviously well-tended accent in someone's yard.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ealata-wild.jpgEalata wildThis scrim of volunteer Burning Bush (Euonymus alata) lines the roadway and stream edge, where it gets ample water and grows undisturbed.2010-05-11T13:50:33+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/12/31/winter-moth-heads-up/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/091230-winter-moth.jpg091230 winter mothWinter moth, taken from Flickr2010-05-11T13:49:18+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/01/25/in-memoriam/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/herbie_yarmouth_maine.jpg'Herbie',_Yarmouth,_MaineHerbie in his heyday. This was a classic American elm.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/p1050067.jpgp1050067There comes a point in a tree's life where removal of this much of its crown is a removal of dignity, as well. Though the tree's trunk appeared to be sound, and the limb removals had eliminated hazard wood,Herbie's time had come.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/p1050052.jpgp1050052The placard in the middle is an 8.5" x 11" sheet of paper.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/p1050059.jpgp1050059To get a sense of the tree's scale, note the people standing to the left of Herbie.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/p1050047.jpgp1050047Herbie the American Elm, on the day scheduled for his removal.2010-05-11T13:34:30+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/02/06/a-tree-is-not-a-carrot/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/beech-roots.jpgbeech rootsThis is one of the thickest roots extending vertically from the beech's trunk. This root was cut in the earlier (20 years previous) transplant; note the resultant root growth just above the cut. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/beech-trailer.jpgbeech trailerThis beech tree was moved last fall, having been transplanted once about 20 years ago. See how the root mass extends far out horizontally, with a relatively shallow depth.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/p1040593.jpgp1040593This is one of the thickest roots extending vertically from the beech's trunk. This root was cut in the earlier (20 years previous) transplant; note the responding root growth from just above the cut.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/p1040504.jpgp1040504This beech tree was moved last fall, having been transplanted once about 20 years ago. See how the root mass extends far out horizontally, with a relatively shallow depth.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/carrots-flickr.jpgcarrots flickrA carrot grows downward, with rootlets out to the side and foliage above ground. A tree is not a carrot.2010-05-11T13:32:10+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/02/13/a-tree-is-a-living-organism/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/watering-mud1.jpgwatering mudWater in all phases of the operation is key to tree transplanting.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/watering-in1.jpgwatering inWatering in a root-washed pin oak at Cavicchio's Nursery. Photo courtesy of Carl Cathcart.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/watering-mud.jpgwatering mudhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/watering-in.jpgwatering inThe roots of this pin oak were washed with water to remove soil before transplanting; shown here is the mudding-in process. Cavicchio Greenhouses in Sudbury, MA, has experimented with root-washing before transplant of B&B stock; early results look good. Photo courtesy of Carl Cathcart, Consulting Arborist.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/p1020468_2.jpgp1020468_2Water in all phases of the operation is key to tree transplanting.2010-05-11T13:30:50+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/02/19/picea-glauca-bare-root-transplant/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca9.jpg09 WCollege Picea glauca9The tree in its new location, with plenty of room for continued growth up and out.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09wcollege-picea-glauca8.jpg09WCollege Picea glauca8Transporting the tree to its new home across campus. The tree has been laid down for stability.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca7.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca7Don lifts the tree out of the hole.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca6.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca6Working in from the perimeter toward the trunk.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca5.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca5https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca4.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca4In this and in the next two pictures, Jim removes soil from the Picea's roots.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca3.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca3 Don digging a trench outside of the root zone.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca2.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca2Jim using the airspade to locate the root zone's outer limits.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca12.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca1The tree in its original location, quite close to the greenhouse.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/09-wcollege-picea-glauca11-e1266620524915.jpg09 WCollege picea glauca1The tree in its original location, too close to the greenhouse.2010-05-11T13:29:29+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/03/09/herbie-what-remains/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p10505183.jpgp1050518From a distance, the spot where Herbie stood looks like a small paved dais in a big open space.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p10505323.jpgp1050532Eureka! The handy measuring tape, laid across the stump's widest part, gives at least some numeric sense of size.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p10505363.jpgp1050536People walking by help with scale.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050533.jpgp1050533Here's a crop from that last photo, showing the stump measuring at its widest point 9'-2". Herbie had plenty of root room, among other advantages, so he could grow to this size.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050532.jpgp1050532And then -- eureka! Got out the measuring tape (my caliper tape wouldn't have been much help) and lay it across what appeared to be the stump's widest part.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p10505311.jpgp1050531This angle doesn't help much either, though it certainly illustrates how Herbie dealt with grade change -- he just grew over it.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050539.jpgp1050539Hmm. This yellow nursery caliper gauge, maxed out at 4 1/4", doesn't come close to an appropriate scale.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050527.jpgp1050527A pair of Felcos and a water bottle for scale, and still it's hard to fathom the stump's size.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050519.jpgp1050519The arborists cut the stump nicely level, and as I got closer the stump looked like a small paved dais.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/p1050518.jpgp1050518From a distance, a big open space where Herbie stood for a couple of centuries.2010-06-13T16:47:38+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/05/05/update-on-picea-glauca-conica-transplant/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/100428-wc-sugar.jpg100428 WC sugarNice trunk flare on the newly transplanted Sugar Maple at Wellesley College.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/100428-wc-kousa.jpg100428 WC kousaThe Dwarf Alberta Spruce didn't make it, but this spring-transplanted Kousa Dogwood may well thrive in this spot.2010-05-11T13:27:03+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/05/10/weeping-norway-spruce-bare-root-transplant/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0154.jpgDSC_0154A final spray-down before transport.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0100.jpgDSC_0100Guiding the lift.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0085.jpgDSC_0085Confirming a balanced and firm placement on the forks.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0043.jpgDSC_0043Guiding the forks for the lift.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0029.jpgDSC_0029Root plate covered in wet burlap for the pickup and move.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_00231.jpgDSC_0023Deepening the excavation.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0023.jpgDSC_0023https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0020.jpgDSC_0020Trunk wrapped in burlap to protect it during excavation and moving.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0013.jpgDSC_0013Branches tied back to permit easier blowout.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dsc_0005.jpgDSC_0005The tree before excavation.2010-05-20T00:03:58+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2010/02/02/london-plane-transplant-video/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/0907-lp-blowout.jpg0907 LP blowoutBlowing soil out from the first London Plane root mass, prior to moving.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/p1020429.jpgp1020429Blowing soil out from the first London Plane root mass, prior to moving.2010-05-05T22:12:46+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/11/elm-bank-workshop/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10302761.jpgp1030276Sugar maple whose root flare was excavated several years ago at a Bartlett Tree workshop given to demonstrate the new and revolutionary use of air tools in tree work.2010-02-26T20:54:00+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/14/elm-bank-workshop-4-root-problems/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030299.jpgp1030299Another example of a dense clay root ball that constricted root growth to the tree's great detriment. Soil had also been piled up around this tree's trunk flare, further challenging its ability to live. Tough conditions for a tree to grow in.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030298.jpgp1030298Closeup of rock-hard clay root ball, broken apart (fairly violently) for demonstration purposes.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030297.jpgp1030297This pair of trees have root masses encased in rock-hard clay soils. Note the solid clumps of clay in the foreground, and root growth only on top of the root ball -- these roots found it impossible to grow into and through this soil. Breaking up the soil in a root ball like this before planting promotes the tree's future health; leaving this kind of root ball intact almost guarantees tree stress and decline.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10302861.jpgp1030286Ilex verticillata root mass, now ready for planting.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10302811.jpgp1030281Using a three-pronged fork to untangle the root mass. For a bigger shrub or small tree, a machete or pitchfork may work well to loosen soil and reorient roots.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030281.jpgp1030281Using a three-pronged fork to untangle the root mass.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030282_21.jpgp1030282_2Fibrous roots hold together in a near solid mass right out of the container.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030279_3.jpgp1030279_3These root systems have been cut in the digging process. In an attempt to regrow roots, the foreground tree has sent out a secondary root system, several of which are beginning to girdle other roots. Kept too long in a burlapped ball or in a container, roots will often turn back in to the ball, making effective planting and long-term growth problematic.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030279_2.jpgp1030279_2This little forest-grown white pine has a clean, evenly spaced root system.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030286.jpgp1030286Using a three-pronged fork to untangle the root mass.2022-12-31T09:55:24+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/17/elm-bank-workshop6-air-tool-tree-transplanting/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030433.jpgp1030433Six-inch caliper elm tree in its new location. Some wilt is evident -- likely because the tree was excavated the day before and the roots had been exposed through the course of the several-hours long workshop. https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030428.jpgp1030428Building the well wall, as water continues to flow.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030418.jpgp1030418Still more water, as the backfilling continues.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030409.jpgp1030409More backfill, more water, and someone still holds the tagline for safety. The Dingo never drives over the root mass, but drops soil onto it from outside.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030403.jpgp1030403Trunk flare, placed in the proper relationship to finish grade. Note the cut root ends; clean cuts with sharp tools let the wounds heal quickly.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030402.jpgp1030402A bucket on the Dingo shakes backfill -- the native soil onsite in this case -- into the crater as workers wield shovels and a hose.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030401.jpgp1030401Big canopy on this tree, with a root mass to match.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030399_2.jpgp1030399_2Digging in the root mass. It's important to pack the soil directly under the tree's trunk, to eliminate air holes and ensure against settling of the tree lower in its hole over time.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030398_2.jpgp1030398_2With the tree in its new location, burlap padding the trunk may be removed.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030390_2.jpgp1030390_2Freeing the roots, beginning to dig in backfill, and watering to make a soil slurry that will eliminate air pockets and help anchor the spread-out root plate.2011-07-26T20:15:50+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/12/31/massachusetts-arbor-day-of-service/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/p1040216.jpgp1040216Help younger generations grow up with the Arbor Day of Service.2009-12-31T00:42:31+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/about/2015-11-13T13:06:18+00:00weekly0.6https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/11/big-leafed-mystery/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/paulownia-vert1.jpgPaulownia vertThis mystery tree, paired with two others nearby, baffled me for months.2009-11-13T14:30:16+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/11/02/gleditsia-pods/2009-11-02T17:35:36+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/26/honey-locust-in-the-suburbs/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030592.jpgp1030592Plenty of rooting room translates into plenty of canopy.2009-10-25T03:27:32+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/07/29/another-air-tool-bare-root-transplanting/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020427.jpgp1020427Final shot. Asymmetry in the Taxus crown reflects its previous location in a larger planting.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020425.jpgp1020425The following week: Taxus in a new spot, looking relaxed and healthyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020232.jpgp1020232Progress shot. Look at how deep the trench is. The Taxus is nearly ready, and shortly the crew will move on to the Cornus kousa; when both trees have been blown out, they will be separated and moved to new locations.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020200.jpgp1020200Twine holds the pigtails together; when the plant is ready to move, twine can also be used to tie the pigtails back to the trunk, to keep them from dragging during transport.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020195.jpgp1020195Pigtailing the roots -- tying them in long bundles -- helps keep them protected and out of the way.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020185.jpgp1020185Double-teaming a soil clod. Pushing the nozzle down into the root mass helps loosen soil inside it.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020133.jpgp1020133Bobcat continually takes blown soil out of the trench and stockpiles it.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020131.jpgp1020131Soil and rocks fly during the process, so eye and ear protection are essential. The white jumpsuits keep these guys from getting covered with soil (color is optional).https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020119.jpgp1020119Taxus is a deeply rooted plant -- notice the trench depth, and presence of roots in the lower part of the mound.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/p1020118.jpgp1020118The Bobcat has dug a trench, and the crew is blowing soil into it. Note that the Yew's branches have been tied up to keep them out of the way.2009-10-12T22:44:35+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/12/elm-bank-workshop-2-trench-work/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030241.jpgp1030241Blowing out the trench. This air tool is a new product that uses an auxiliary stream of water to help keep the roots hydrated and the dust down. Tree Specialists is assessing this new feature.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030238.jpgp1030238Note the plywood barrier inside the trench as well, to focus the air blast and prevent soil from blowing into a previously blown-out section.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p10302341.jpgp1030234When it's necessary to dig a trench near a tree, air tools can do the job while preserving the tree's roots. You can see roots crossing this trench, but plenty of space beneath them for a new conduit or line. This trench was blown out with an air spade, and rocks and excess loose material after the blowing-out removed by hand.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030234.jpgp1030234An air tool was used to blow out this utility trench only feet from the tree's trunk. Loose material -- stones and soil blown loose but not out of the trench -- was pulled out by hand, to keep the roots as intact as possible.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030237.jpgp1030237Hinged plywood panels keep the dust contained to the area around a trench.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030231.jpgp1030231Quite a few arborists and other landscape professionals attended the workshop, which began with slide talks and then moved outside to field demonstrations.2009-10-12T22:39:55+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/13/elm-bank-workshop-decompaction/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030267.jpgp1030267Decompacting soil around two sugar maple trees. One man operates the air tool, blowing vertical trenches and mixing their backfill with a proprietary organic soil amendment that mimics forest duff. The other operator mans the air hose, and tugs on it to signal to the operator. Air tools are loud!. Green flags indicate limits of the decompaction zone.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030265.jpgp1030265Again, the arborists set up barriers to limit the area affected by blown-out soil and pebbles. Rolf Briggs (right foreground) showed how to use a compaction meter, and explained that the green flags delineate the area to be decompacted. Flagging the area for review by the client makes the limit of work clear to all parties.2009-10-12T22:38:58+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/16/elm-bank-workshop5-root-forensics/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030258.jpgp1030258Removing the worst of the inward-growing and circling roots improves the tree's chances for survival.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030253.jpgp1030253Root ends cut during the tree's digging in the nursery sent out masses of fibrous roots, quite a few of which turned back toward the trunk. The interface between root ball soil and surrounding soil can inhibit root growth into the surrounding soil; removing burlap, removing the wire basket, and breaking up the root ball soil, particularly at the ball's perimeter, can help promote the spread of new roots.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1030247.jpgp1030247Turf provided the only competition for this tree, but it was showing dieback and early fall color at the MAA workshop.2009-10-12T22:37:25+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/07/24/no-photos-here/2009-10-10T21:51:47+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/25/honey-locusts-in-the-city/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020382.jpgp1020382Both trees work hard under severe limitations. The far tree shows what the nearer tree could have looked like.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/p1020379.jpgp1020379What had been a typical street tree -- a standard-form Honey Locust -- was cut down at some point, and now sports shrub-like topgrowth.2009-09-26T13:58:37+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/09/11/crowding-the-bed/https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/hamamelis-form.jpgHamamelis formVase-like form also has foliage 'furnishing' to the ground in full sun.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/p1020816_2.jpgp1020816_2Spacing between 18 and 24 inches on center.https://takingplaceinthetrees.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/p1020816.jpgp1020816Two feet high, with thick foliage making a bumper at the building's base.2009-09-11T20:47:03+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.net/2009/08/14/ambition/2009-08-14T21:32:48+00:00monthlyhttps://takingplaceinthetrees.netdaily1.02022-12-31T09:55:24+00:00