Trees for urban areas and the soil to use Can you put a price tag on a tree? It is easy for those that sell timber for building, paper or for other targeted industries, but what is a living tree worth? When you look at all the benefits, how is it possible to put a cost on a tree? Besides supporting our wildlife, providing oxygen and clean air and stabilising soil, trees have also been proven to provide mental benefits, improving moods and acting as a calming element. Many people, including plenty of landscapers, plant trees too deep and
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this almost always results in damage to the tree (in fact, it is often a fatal mistake). This is easy to remedy if you know what to look for and how to plant correctly. No matter their container size or type, all trees need to be planted at the right depth for their root system. Read on and you can avoid one of the most common tree-planting mistakes.
How deep is too deep when planting a tree?
The measure for tree planting depth is the tree’s root flare. Sometimes called
The Overflow - Winter 2020
trunk flare or root collar, this is the area just above where the topmost roots emerge from the trunk. Confusingly, there is not always a flare here, meaning that some trunks, especially on young trees, may look like a straight cylinder. If you don’t see a flare, don’t worry. Look for the tops of roots and for the slight change in surface appearance where the bark tissue ends and root tissue begins. First, you will need to release your tree’s root ball from its container or wrapping. Gently lay the tree on its side, being sure not to damage any
