10 12 Landscape Nevada

Official Publication of the Nevada Landscape Association | www.nevadanla.com

OCTOBER 2012

10 Most Frequently Asked Urban Forestry Questions Page 5

22nd Annual Trade Show & Conference Application Page 4

Tree Construction Zones & Root Protection Strategies Page 8

Much is at “Stake”

Page 6

PROTECTING PLANTS FROM WINTER BEGINS IN THE FALL Page 10

P.O. Box 7431 Reno, NV 89510

Nevada Landscape Assoc.

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Landscape Nevada

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OCTOBER 2012

www.nevadanla.com

A Letter from the President Dear Members,

W

riting these presidents letters is always a challenging exercise. I have always felt that it provides me with a forum to present the agenda of the NLA to you, the members. Humor and a positive outlook have been the general underlying tone of all of my previous messages, because as an organization in the throes of tough times, these principles seem to me to be the best approach at a difficult situation.

Obviously, markets across the board are at risk of potential ebbs and flows as the economy shifts, and we my friends are in the ebb. This is not new information; it is as prevalent a topic in day-to-day conversations as the replacement ref’s in the NFL. And the NLA, being only as strong as its membership, is not immune to these fluctuations. It is to this point that I now turn, because I am witnessing what, although it may have been there all along, I feel to be a potential breaking point for the NLA and its members. We as a board are constantly bombarded by the criticism of how we are providing value to the landscape industry. Well, this year’s golf tournament provides us with a spot-on representation of the precarious position that we currently find ourselves.

This year, we scaled back the tournament and moved it back to an afternoon tee-off. We checked local calendars and confirmed that we were not bumping up against any local industry events that would cause attendance conflicts. We lowered the price dramatically to make it easier on the collective pocketbook. And most importantly, we attached a very personal, industry focused, charity aspect to the tournament. We had the opportunity to help Ole Marin, a long-time local landscaper, who suffered a stroke earlier this year, with the debt that he incurred while in the hospital and during his convalescence. It seemed like the perfect fit for the NLA to show how important supporting the local industry and our members was to us. I also provided a way to quell the “what-have-you-done-for-me-lately” criticism that I alluded to before. The result was that three landscape companies fielded teams at the golf tournament. We were so lucky that we had three at-large local member vendors (Western Nevada Supply, Hunter Irrigation and Crop Production Services) as well as three national vendors (Agrium Advanced Technologies, Colombia Seeds and Syngenta) sponsor the event. Thanks to these vendors, the NLA is still going to be able to donate $935 to Ole and his family.

It is sad to think what this could have been. As I stood in the pavilion at Wildcreek Golf Course, where in years past I have witnessed standing room only crowds at this very tournament, I could only apologize to our sponsors and rue the fact that I was more than likely attending the last NLA Golf Tournament.

I apologize for the rant, but this organization means a lot to me; primarily because this industry means a lot to me. I watch the day-to-day struggle, from the largest companies down to the smallest. The burden is all of ours to bear together and I intend to continue the fight.

The Trophy Awards are the next large event on the NLA calendar in the first part of November, and even though the application process is closed, it would be great to see all of you at the banquet for a couple of cocktails.

Good luck in the next couple months!

Matt Melarkey

PUBLISHER Landscape Nevada is published by: Kathy Hess, Just Imagine Marketing and Design 775.746.4138; kathy@justimaginemktg.com NEVADA LANDSCAPE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Matt Melarkey, President, Crop Production Services 775.358.6166 Jeff Hurlbert, Secretary, Sierra Nevada Landscapes 775.853.4445 Heidi Kratsch, Director, UNCE 775.336.0251 Rodney Bruns, Director, Pyramid Landscape 775.425.2445 Jason Perry, Director, Western Turf 775.356.8873 Tim Laskowski, Director, Signature Landscapes 775.544.6874 David Grillo, Director, Nitro Green 775.828.2900 Dan George, Director, Century Landscapes 775.358.5222 Dave Dabner, Past President, Reno Green Landscaping 775.852.8952 LANDSCAPE NEVADA is the official publication of the Nevada Landscape Association, P.O. Box 7431, Reno, Nevada, 89510, phone 775.673.0404 or 800.645.9794, fax 775.673.5828, website: www.nevadanla.com, email: nlainfo@nevadanla.com.

QUESTIONS, COMMENTS & SUBMISSIONS Write to Landscape Nevada at the address above or email the editor at kathy@justimaginemktg.com or phone 775.746.4138.

MISSION STATEMENT The Nevada Landscape Association provides leadership by promoting professionalism and integrity within the Green Industry through education, high standards and community involvement. We guide policy and uphold responsible resource management for the beautification and enhancement of our community.

NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

A fall kaleidoscope of colors...a photo opportunity too good to pass up. And speaking of fall, check out the article on page 10 for some great advice. It talks about the three things that can be done this fall to help keep landscape plants healthy and lessen damage from winter injury. These few key chores can lead to a beautiful landscape come spring!

Photo by Brad Lyles

www.nevadanla.com

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NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

RENO SHOW INFO.

22nd Annual Trade Show & Conference APPLICATION FOR EXHIBIT SPACE Reno Sparks Convention Center • Reno, Nevada • February 13, 2013 The Exhibitor named below agrees to lease space from the Nevada Landscape Association (hereafter referred to as management) according to the terms and conditions contained in this application. Table rentals are based on a first come first served basis with locations held by payment only. Table rental purchased after January 15th will increase by $100.

PREFERRED EXHIBIT SPACE: #1_____________________________________ #3_____________________________________ #2_____________________________________ #4_____________________________________ SKIRTED TABLE RENTAL COST: Member: $200

Non-Member:

$400 (Includes discounted membership)

2 tables spaces = 10% discount 3 tables spaces = 20% discount 4 or more table spaces = 30% discount Electricity is limited. Price to be determined.

Amount Enclosed $_____________. Please make checks payable to Nevada Landscape Association.

Or Credit Card (MasterCard/Visa) #_____________________________ Credit Card Expiration Date ________ Signature for Credit Card ____________________________________ 3-digit Security Code ____________ SEND TO:

NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION, P.O. BOX 7431, RENO, NV 89510-7431 Phone: 775-673-0404; Fax: 775-673-5828

Products to be displayed: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Prefer not to be located near: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Company Name ___________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ___________________________________________________________________

Phone ( )______________________ Fax ( )_____________________ Representative ___________________________________________________________________

Phone ( )______________________ Fax ( )_____________________ Exhibit representatives requiring badges: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________________________________ Exhibitor hereby acknowledges he has read and understands the terms and conditions on the back of this contract for exhibiting in the Nevada Landscape Conference & Trade Show contained in the application for exhibit space. The exhibitor agrees to be bound by these terms and conditions upon receiving acceptance of this Application/Contract and deposit by Exhibit Management. Acceptance to be effective upon mailing to exhibitor a formal notice of Assignment of Space.

Signature of Applicant ____________________________________________ Date____________________ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR NLA USE ONLY Accepted By

______________________________ Total Fees

$ __________________

Booth Assignment

______________________________ Less Deposit

$ __________________

4

Landscape Nevada

Balance Due

$ __________________

1. LEASE AGREEMENT Should exhibitor not occupy leased space prior to show opening management will retain any deposits paid and exhibitor remains liable for any balance due.

Any display in booth space not paid for in full by close of show will be placed in storage until contract balance and storage fees are paid in full.

Cancellation must be made in writing to the Nevada Landscape Association, P.O. Box 7431, Reno, NV 89510-7431.

If such cancellation is received 30 days prior to show, the NLA shall be entitled to retain or collect 50% of the exhibitor’s total contract obligation as liquidated damages. No refunds will be made if cancellation notice is received later than 30 days prior to show and the NLA shall be entitled to collect 100% of the exhibitor’s total contract obligation. Any refunds will be paid after the conclusion of the Nevada Landscape Trade Show.

Management shall not be liable for any damages or expenses incurred by exhibitors in the event the show is delayed, interrupted or not held as scheduled. If the show is not held due to reasons beyond the control of the Management, Management may retain an amount paid by the exhibitors to defray expenses already incurred.

2. SECURITY Management will provide security during non-exhibit hours to avoid loss or damage. Management accepts no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged items.

3.

LIABILITY The Nevada Landscape Association accepts no liability at any time for loss, damage or injury occurring in or to the exhibit or its occupants. The exhibitor is responsible entirely for the exhibit space leased to him and shall not damage or mar any part of the building. The exhibitor agrees to reimburse the management for any loss or damage due to the exhibitor’s activities. If the exhibitor desires insurance, he must obtain it.

4. COMPLIANCE All exhibitors must comply with city ordinances and regulations including but not limited to the Fire Marshal and any facility codes.

5. DECISIONS Exhibitor agrees to abide by any decision made by the Management for the good of the show.

10 Most Frequently Asked Urban Forestry Questions 1). Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?

No, however a Tree Work Permit is required before removing, pruning or planting trees within City Rights-of-Way or on other City property. Call the City of Reno Urban Forestry at 321-8371 to request an inspection, which is required before we can issue a permit. Keep in mind that we may not issue a permit to remove a tree unless the tree is dead, diseased or poses a public safety hazard.

2). When do I need to hire a Certified Arborist?

A Certified Arborist is required for the removal, pruning, or planting of trees on City Right-of-Way or other City property. You may also hire a Certified Nursery Worker or Certified Landscape Technician if you are going to have any tree(s) planted on public property. You are not required to a hire a Certified Arborist for work on private property, but we highly recommend that you do. Call the Urban Forestry Office at 321-8371 for a list of Certified Arborists who own or work for tree companies in our area.

3). There is a City tree along the street that has dead limbs, when will it be pruned?

We try to prune neighborhood street and parks trees on a rotational schedule once every 10–12 years however, it is a challenge for us to keep this schedule given the 22,000 plus trees we have to maintain and the limited staff we have to accomplish the task. After we inspect the tree(s) in question, we will determine its condition and pruning priority in relation to other trees requiring pruning. If the tree needs immediate attention, we will dispatch our tree crew to the site.

4). My sidewalk is cracked and being lifted up by tree roots, will the City repair or replace it?

The City does have a limited budget to repair and replace sidewalks damaged by tree roots if the damage is caused by a City tree. If the damage is caused by a tree on private property, the property owner is then responsible for the cost of the repair or replacement. Call the Urban Forestry Office at 321-8371 to determine if a tree is on either on public or private property.

5). My neighbor’s tree is growing over my side of the property line, can I prune the branches on my side of the fence?

The best advice is to talk with your neighbor first. It may also be a good idea to contact a Certified Arborist to evaluate the overall condition of the tree and then recommend a course of action. If you prune tree limbs hanging over your property and the tree is damaged or dies, you may be held liable. If your neighbor is not willing to cooperate in any fashion, you should contact your homeowner’s insurance agent for assistance in the matter.

6). There is a dead tree on my neighbor’s property that I am worried will fall onto my house or in my backyard where my children play. Can the City remove it?

The City does not remove trees on private property but may require property owners to do so if a tree poses a public safety hazard. Call Reno Direct at 334-2099 to report the problem.

7). Does the City sell firewood to the public?

Yes, firewood is sold to the general public during the months of September and March on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s only from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm. Customers should be prepared to cut their own rounds which requires a chainsaw and personal protective equipment. Customers must pay in advance by check or cash only and must sign a waiver of liability in order to enter the wood yard. Waivers can be obtained at the Park Maintenance Office at 2055 Idlewild Drive in Idlewild Park. The wood yard is located at 190 Telegraph which is off of Greg Street just behind the Grand Sierra Resort. The cost for the firewood is $75 per cord.

8). My elm tree is losing leaves, does it have Dutch elm disease and should it be removed?

It is likely that your elm is infested with elm leaf beetles. Adult elm leaf beetles and worm-like beetle larvae feed on elm leaves which cause leaves to turn brown and prematurely fall from the tree in mid to late summer. Although elm leaf beetles cause a mess, elms seem vigorous enough to put on new sets of leaves each spring. The beetles can be controlled with the foliar sprays or systemic insecticides. Contact a Licensed Pesticide Applicator for control recommendations and services.

9). Why is topping bad for my tree?

Topping trees is not an accepted practice for several reasons and is not allowed on City trees. Topping trees creates bigger problems for trees when major limbs are stubbed back. This causes a flush of growth which has very weak attachments, leading to more limb breakage. Most trees will decline within a few years and may die because the majority of the leaf canopy has been removed. Without enough leaves, trees cannot manufacture the sugars and carbohydrates needed to sustain growth. You will likely end up having to pay again to have your tree removed. If your tree has major dead limbs or simply has outgrown its space, better to have it removed and replant with a tree that will fit the site. An alternative to topping which can reduce the size of a tree within injuring the tree is called “Drop Crotching”. Certified Arborists are familiar with this method of pruning and can professionally evaluate the condition of your tree in order to suggest the right course of action.

10). Where can I find information about caring for trees in the Truckee Meadows area?

You can find a host of information about proper tree care in our local area by visiting the Truckee Meadows Community Forestry Coalition Website at www.communityforestry.org. You can also call the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension at 784-4848, local nurseries, or a Certified Arborist in our area. For a list of Certified Arborists in Nevada visit the International Society of Arboriculture Website at www.isa-arbor.com. For a list of Approved Street Trees or other information call the Urban Forestry Office at 321-8371.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 www.nevadanla.com

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When stake ties are left on too long they can strangle the trunk. The bulge above the strangulation was formed from trapped photosynthates that were unable to travel to the roots.

Photo by Holly Bromley

Much is

at “Stake”

By Holly Bromley, B.S. ISA Certified Arborist #WE-5339A

F

all is approaching rapidly and the pace and rhythms of the busy summer months are about to change. Work is slowing and gears are shifting from the hectic activities of summer landscape maintenance. That said, there is still plenty of work to be done before snow removal is the only landscape task at hand.

Among other fall tasks are the planting of new trees. Not only is the cooling weather perfect for new tree planting, but garden centers and nurseries have great discounts this time of year. Along with the planting though is the issue of whether or not to support the new trees with stakes. Do they really need it?

And if so, what is the proper way to do it to ensure optimum health of the tree and its root system?

First, trees don’t naturally need stakes.

There’s never been a case of a naturally sprouted tree requiring a stake for proper development. Of course, digging up the tree, putting it in a container or binding the roots in burlap to replant it is anything but natural.

Supporting trees with stakes until established is often, but not always necessary. Furthermore, even when staking is necessary, if the stakes are left on too long or are improperly Stakes should not protrude into installed, they can cause more harm than good. the canopy where they can I like to use the analogy that stakes are like damage tender branches. a full leg cast on a person. The cast serves a Photo by Leslie Lyles purpose to aid in healing, but once the break is healed the cast comes off. If a cast were left on for years, all the muscles in ones leg would atrophy and the person would not be able to walk on their own once the cast was finally removed. Staking, in a sense, does the same thing to tree if its strength is artificially provided by restrictive stakes—the trunk and its root system are weakened.

Understanding the purpose of staking trees is critical to doing it properly. Of course the primary purpose is to ensure that the tree does not topple in the wind while waiting for the roots to develop enough to support it unaided. But in order for the trunk and roots to develop properly, the tree must be allowed to sway in the wind. The movement of the tree as it sways stimulates cell growth in the trunk, therefore aiding in the development of a stronger, well tapered trunk. Additionally, root growth is stimulated as the tree moves, thus helping to provide proper anchorage for the tree—it turns a root ball, into a

6

Landscape Nevada

root system. Improper staking actually hinders both of these processes.

When staking is required, it is best to use the least restrictive support necessary.

One stake placed outside the root ball on the windward side of a smaller tree that can’t stand on its own may be plenty. For larger trees that must be staked, two stakes placed perpendicular to the prevailing winds with ties set 6 to 8 inches apart will allow the trunk to sway sufficiently to stimulate root growth and strengthen the trunk without allowing the tree be blown over.

So, which trees really don’t need staking when planted? The smaller the tree and root ball, the less likely it is to need support. When there is very little canopy and the root ball will hold firmly in the soil with moderate winds, staking is unnecessary. Also, the more protected from the wind the tree is, the less stakes are needed.

Evergreens that have a relatively large root ball and their center of mass low to the ground, such as pines and spruces, also rarely need staking unless they are in a high wind area. In such a case, the stake ties should be attached in the bottom third of the tree, where they can lend the most support to the tree’s root system.

Do not leave stakes on too long as it will not only weaken the trunk and root system, but will strangle the trunk over time. Ideally, most stakes should be removed after the first full growing season. Fall is the perfect time to remove the stakes that have lent support to trees that were installed the previous year. The best time to remove tree stakes is after the leaf drop so that there is less movement of the canopy in the wind. And since significant root growth occurs in the dormant months, stronger root growth will be further stimulated, increasing the anchorage in the soil.

There are few things to remind your planting crews of when it comes to properly staking trees. It is imperative to, NEVER leave a central “nursery stake” on trees at planting. These are meant for added protection during transport and will damage the tree if left on. Stakes should always be driven into the ground outside of the root ball to prevent unnecessary root damage and they should be short enough not to rub on and damage the trees scaffold branches. Finally, make sure that the tie material is soft enough not to damage the tender bark and is not applied so tight as to cut off the vascular flow in the trunk as the tree grows.

Proper staking, along with good planting and watering practices, is essential to ensuring the long term survival of new trees. After all, the goal of planting a tree is for it to thrive and survive to maturity.

calendar of events LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFIED EXAM October 5–6, 2012 Petaluma, CA www.landcarenetwork.org

GIE-EXPO (GREEN INDUSTRY & EQUIPMENT) October 24–26 Louisville, KY www.gie-expo.com

WATERSMART INNOVATIONS CONFERENCE AND EXPOSITION October 2–5, 2012 Las Vegas, NV www.WaterSmartInnovations.com

2012 SOUTHERN UTAH GREEN CONFERENCE November 7, 2012 Washington, UT www.utahgreen.org

LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFIED EXAM (WRITTEN) October 13, 2012 Sparks, NV www.nevadanla.com

NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET November 9, 2012 Reno Ballroom, Reno, NV www.nevadanla.com

CANOPY ASSESSMENT PRESENTATION – RENO URBAN FORESTRY COMMISSION October 24, 2012 Moana Nursery Design Center, Reno, NV

2013 MONTANA GREEN EXPO January 9, 2013 Grand, MT www.plantingmontana.com

2012 HARDSCAPE NORTH AMERICA October 24–26, 2012 Louisville, KY www.gie-expo.com

IDAHO HORT EXPO January 23–25, 2013 Boise Centre, Boise, ID www.inlagrow.org

NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND TRADESHOW February 13, 2013 Reno Sparks Convention Center, Reno, NV www.nevadanla.com

Check out this time-lapse video we made of our LICT Testing...

http://youtu.be/lWEYPI7BhX8

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www.nevadanla.com

7

» Tree Construction Zone

& Root Protection Strategies

A

By Steve Churchillo City of Reno Urban Forester Certified Arborist #RM-0475A

s an Urban Forester for the past 32 years working in New York City, Boise Idaho, and Reno, I have been directly involved in dozens of tree protection projects involving

all kinds of construction. Examples of these different types of construction-related projects affecting trees have included new playground installations and renovations, street/ curb/ gutter, and sidewalk re-construction projects,

“Remember, ‘What goes on below ground is seen above ground.’”

sewer mainline and lateral replacements, building renovations, utility installations, and site-demolition work. Although these construction type projects are different from an

engineering standpoint, tree and root protection strategies typically follow the same set of techniques and practices.

The first and most important step for protecting trees during any construction project is COMMUNICATION! Before a project even begins at the planning stage, all the stake holders and their roles need to be identified. This typically includes the property owner or representative, general contractor, subcontractor(s) such as the concrete guy, electrician, architect, and landscape contractor. Others may include utility or governmental inspectors. An ISA Certified Arborist should be, but is not always, consulted. More times than not an ISA Certified Arborist is not called until after work begins and tree conflicts become apparent.

The next critical step is PLANNING stage. This is the time to have the stakeholders on site to discuss the project, how it’s going to occur, who is doing what, timelines, what the desired outcomes are, and what potential conflicts exist, (i.e.: Trees in the way of equipment access, trenches near tree root zones, trees too close to structures, etc.). Projects vary in size and scope, many of which require architectural and/or engineering plans and specifications. Others may not require any written plans at all but may still require permits and following approved industry or governmental specifications such as how much base material and how thick the concrete has to be when

Although the fenced off tree Protection Zone is inadequate (fencing should be out past the drip line), this contractor did protect the trunks and hand dig when close to roots.

replacing city sidewalks. When there are trees and landscaping to be preserved in the area of construction, a Certified Arborist should be hired by the property owner to evaluate the condition of the trees and work directly with the general contractor to develop protection strategies and monitor the work to ensure trees are not damaged.

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Landscape Nevada

Photo by Leslie Lyles

Here is a list of some basic things that should or should not be done to protect trees and roots during construction: 1.

Do an inventory, (species, quantity, size, and condition), map, and take pictures before work begins.

2.

Write a set of specifications, review w/ the contractor, and have the contractor sign and follow them.

3.

Consider potting smaller trees for replanting later and transplanting/relocating larger trees that may be in the way and could be damaged.

4.

Remove any trees that are in poor health, have structural problems that may cause tree failure, or are leaning over a structure or other targets. Prune others as needed per ANZI: Z-133 Standards.

5.

Fence off tree root protection zones to keep equipment from driving over and compacting soil within the drip-line, (area under the tree canopy). If equipment must drive over the root zone, make sure the soil is dry and spread several inches of wood chips over the entire area.

6.

Do not store any chemicals, stock pile materials, or equipment within the tree protection zone.

7.

For larger trees, place 2”x 6” inch boards vertically around the trunk and strap them together to protect the bark and cambium from being hit by equipment even though the area is fenced off.

8.

Keep any leveling, cutting, and filling of soil to a minimum where possible to protect roots and not change the natural flow of water. Be sure that water flows away from trees and does not collect at the base of trunks.

9.

Consider building retaining walls if significant grade changes are unavoidable in order to save as much of the root zone as possible.

10. Minimize any root removal as much as possible. Do not allow equipment operators to rip through areas where roots are suspected. Instead, have them lightly scrape areas and/or then hand dig around large roots to expose them.

11. Avoid having to cut roots. Look at possible bridging, posts and footings, steel plating, decking, tunneling, boring, or moving the excavation area if trenching for sprinklers or utilities services. If you must cut roots, use a hand or chain saw for a clean cut as you would do for a limb. Do not use an axe. Cut all smaller feeder roots with a sharp hand pruner or loppers. Refill the area as quickly as possible and keep moist.

12. After the project is completed, make sure that irrigation systems are working properly and trees are getting adequate water, (another subject). Compacted areas may need aeration. Look at deep root feeding using a fertilizer high in phosphorus to encourage root growth. Mulch areas to moderate soil temperatures, hold moisture, and add organic matter to soils. Continue to monitor tree health on an annual basis and treat any insects or diseases that could damage trees if you are a licensed pesticide applicator. (Check with the Nevada Department of Agriculture for licensing requirements.)

Remember, “What goes on below ground is seen above ground.”

A final note about working nears trees and performing any work within City of Reno Public Rights-of-Ways: • Any work taking place in the right-of way requires an Excavation and Encroachment Permit from the City of Reno Engineering Department. Contact Travis Truhill at 334-3333 for permit information.

• The City of Reno Tree Ordinance requires that a Tree Work Permit be obtained from the Urban Forester when doing any work within 10 feet of a city tree. A Tree Work Permit is also required when removing or pruning any city tree(s), or when planting a tree(s) within the right-of-way.

To request an inspection prior to the issuance of a permit or to check a right-of-way, call the Urban Forester at 321-8373.

The City of Reno Tree Ordinance, Approved Street Tree List, and additional tree care information for the Truckee Meadows area can be found at www.communityforestry.org.

When possible, large roots should be tunneled under rather than cut.

Photo by Leslie Lyles

www.nevadanla.com

9

Protecting Plants From Winter Damage begins in the fall

By Leslie Lyles, M.S. Stewardship Horticultural ISA Certified Arborist #WE-1220A

W

e’ve had a wonderful summer and beautiful mild fall, so protecting your client’s plants from winter’s damage is probably one of the last things on your mind. However, now is the time to start preparing plants to help reduce winter injury. There are three key things that can be done this fall to help keep landscape plants healthy and lessen damage from winter injury.

First, there are several irrigation chores that shouldn’t be neglected. Before shutting down and draining irrigation systems, advise your clients to run their irrigation programs through several extra cycles; this can be easily done by using the ‘Manual Start’ feature on most irrigation time clocks.

“Additional irrigation will Additional irrigation will build soil moisture and help sustain the plants going into winter. Also, once the build soil moisture and plants have dropped their leaves and gone dormant it is still important to water landscapes if natural precipitation is lacking. Supplemental fall and winter watering help sustain the plants is particularly important for young landscape trees and evergreens. A good rule of thumb is to deep water to a going into winter.” depth of at least eight inches if there has been less than a half inch of precipitation in a three week period.

Second, avoid pruning trees and shrubs in the fall before they go dormant! I can’t stress this point enough. Pruning stimulates growth; if plants are pruned before they have been signaled that ‘winter is coming’ the plants will respond by using up energy reserves to continue growing, at a time when they should be storing energy for the winter. The new growth will inevitably be damaged when winter arrives and stored energy reserves that the plant relies on for growth in the spring will be depleted.

Finally, to protect sensitive plants and evergreens, consider spraying them with an anti-transpirant such as Cloud Cover® or Wilt Proof® this fall. Anti-transpirants can be purchased at your local nursery or home improvement store and will help protect plants from winter desiccation. Plants that would benefit from extra winter protection include any newly planted evergreens, broad-leaved evergreens such as rhododendrons, laurels, euonymus and photinia, as well as delicate plants such as heavenly bamboo and roses.

Remember, before you put your clients’ landscapes to rest for the winter, there are a few key chores that you can do now that will improve the health and beauty of their landscape next year.

A healthy landscape will ultimately improve your client’s satisfaction with your services.

3 Key Things: 1) Irrigation Chores.

2) Avoid Pruning Before Plants Go Dormant!

3) Spray With Anti-Transpirant.

Photo by Leslie Lyles

Alert!

3 3 10

Landscape Nevada

Before pruning, ask yourself “What is the purpose of this plant in the landscape?”Remember:

Ornamental grasses and shrubs such as Caryopteris, and Rugosa rose are planted for their winter interest.

Pruning now will destroy that winter beauty.

Spring flowering shrubs should not be pruned until after they bloom next spring. Fall and/or winter pruning will remove the blooming wood, depriving your clients of a spectacular spring bloom.

SAVE THE DATE 22ND ANNUAL NEVADA LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION BANQUET Reno Ballroom at the Silver Legacy November 9, 2012 Cocktails 6 pm | Dinner 7 pm You won’t want to miss this event celebrating Trophy Award Winners, Landscape Industry Certified, New Members and Sponsors.

For more information please call the Nevada Landscape office at 673-0404.

www.nevadanla.com

11

Your One Stop Shop For Everything Landscape.

At Horizon, we specialize in every major area of your business— and we do it all under one roof!

Expect the best when you step into a Horizon store: w w w w

Great Service and Prices Knowledgeable, Professional Staff Full Service Repair Centers With Factory Trained Mechanics Contractor-Grade Product Selection

irrigation | specialty | landscape | equipment | irrigation | specialty | landscape | equipment | irrigation |

Your local Horizon stores: Henderson: 702.435.9471 | Las Vegas Central: 702.873.2468 | Las Vegas North: 702.656.8150 | Las Vegas: 702.362.4224 Scan the QR code, call us or visit us at HorizonOnline.com to learn more.

The Edge You Need

Advertise Your Business in Landscape Nevada

• • •

Next issue is Winter 2012 Available online with links to all advertiser’s websites Mailing to over 800 potential customers

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RESERVE SPACE: Call Kathy Hess 775.746.4138 office | kathy@justimaginemktg.com

Proud publisher of Landscape Nevada