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As part of the Dallas Mavericks Guard the Planet initiative, the Mavs launched Trees for Wins and committed to plant one tree in Reverchon Park for every Mavs win this season. For the Mavs 50 wins to date, 50 trees were recently planted by players Eduardo Najera and DeShawn Stevenson.  The trees will be cared for by the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department and Arborilogical Services, Tree Care Experts.

“We are proud to share the park as our backyard with the Mavs and we want to thank the Mavericks for this beautiful gesture of planting trees,” said Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children President J.C. Montgomery, Jr.

“The Mavs support for this project expresses their corporate leadership as well as their sound principles in being stewards of our urban forest,” said Arborilogical Services, Tree Care Experts President Steve Houser. Reverchon Park offers many leisure and recreational programs as well as baseball fields, basketball and tennis courts and an accessible children’s playground.

Plano’s subdivisions and shopping centers hardly conjure up natural wonder. But a short walk from some mini-mansions, a Chase bank and a Chinese restaurant sits a leafy grove with some of the oldest living organisms in Texas.

There are ashes, elms, pecans and a bur oak believed to have sprouted during Christopher Columbus’ time.

Starting Friday in the bur oak’s shadow, dozens will gather in Bob Woodruff Park for a series of events known as the Texas Tree Climbing Championships. The competition, held each year, serves as a Super Bowl of sorts for tree-service workers. This year’s event will highlight Plano’s ancient grove, part of a robust greenbelt that follows Rowlett Creek from Dallas north into Allen.

“The first thing out of somebody’s mouth when I tell them about the competition is, ‘Are there any trees in Plano?’ ” joked Steve Houser, an arborist and climber who serves on the Dallas Urban Forest Advisory Committee.

Trees elsewhere in North Texas, aided by plentiful water and fertilizer, may grow larger. Yet few match the ages of some of the trees in this Plano grove, which stands in a floodplain and has been protected for centuries from grazing cattle, encroaching development and Mother Nature’s hazards, arborists say.

“We often talk about the past. But when you see these trees, you’re standing in a time machine and looking at the past,” said Pete Smith, who heads a registry of landmark trees for the Texas Forest Service.

Not far from the bur oak stands an ash tree believed to be 300 years old. Next to that is a pecan estimated to be 400 years old. Close by, another massive bur oak of unknown age towers over the forest floor.

Gauging age

Pinpointing ages is tough. The surest way is to examine the tree’s rings, but doing so without damaging the tree is tricky.

Mother Nature offered arborists a glimpse of the big bur oak’s age in 2006, when a storm felled a large branch.

Plano dubbed the tree the “Bicentennial Bur Oak” some years ago as arborists originally estimated the tree to be about 243 years old.

But arborists determined the felled branch was, itself, 226 years old. That forced scientists to increase the tree’s estimated age at more than 500 years.

Other trees in Texas have received more fanfare.

Austin’s Treaty Oak has won prizes and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Another landmark Texas tree, the Goose Island Oak near Corpus Christi, may have germinated a millennium ago.

Methuselah, a sprawling and wrinkled bristlecone pine in California, is celebrated as the world’s oldest. Its age: about 4,800, give or take a century.

Plano’s bur oak, by comparison, has lived in relative obscurity. It dominates a tranquil clearing just out of sight of bustling Park Boulevard.

The aging oak rarely sheds big acorns anymore. Bees have built a nest on a high limb. And arborists have attached a copper rod onto the tree’s spine to shield it from lightning.

But the oak has grown admirers, who take in its sublime splendor like oxygen.

“When you’re 80 feet up in the air and you feel that big ancient giant swaying back and forth in the wind, it’s just utopia,” Houser said. “I just don’t know how else to describe it. All I know is that when you come down, your worries are gone.”

Arborilogical Services, Inc. provides services to the community above and beyond the commercial services for which it is renown. To name a few: there are radio talk shows; published topical information and articles; an informative newsletter; agriculture, horticulture and urban forestry event participation; non-profit public education programs and consortiums; public-sector lobbying for tougher “green” laws and legislation; and many, many more.

If you are a member of the press and would like a quote or comment for your story, please call us or drop us a line.

Oak wilt is caused by a fungus (Ceratocystis fagacearum) which colonizes the vascular system of the tree.  Conduction of water is disrupted causing the leaves to wilt and ultimately for the tree to die.  The disease is highly virulent and spreads in two (2) known ways.  Trees which have formed root grafts with infected trees may themselves become infected through root graft transmission.  For this reason entire stands of Oak forests may be destroyed over a period of time.  New Oak wilt infection centers may begin when a small sap feeding beetle (aka Nitidulid) visits a spore mat on an infected Red Oak.  (Live Oaks do not produce spore mats).  Once the insect has visited a spore mat, his body may carry the fungal spores to a fresh wound, thus creating a new Oak wilt center infection.  The sap feeding beetles are attracted to feed on the sap which oozes from fresh wounds on trees.  Sap feeding beetle activity, spore formation and tree susceptibility are all at high levels from February to June.  For these reasons the Oak wilt control strategy involves the following recommendations:

1. Avoid pruning mid February – mid June (Red Oaks and Live Oaks).
2. If you must prune during this time, paint cuts and wounds as soon as possible after they occur.  The sap flow from wounds usually has stopped within 24-48 hours, therefore, old wounds do not require painting.
3. Healthy trees near Oak wilt infection centers may be treated on a preventable basis with the fungicide “Propaconizol” (aka Alamo).  This fungicide is injected into the tree at the root flares, and can protect trees for up to three (3) years.
4. Once trees have become infected, successful therapeutic treatment with Alamo is possible, however, results vary and most trees will not survive once symptoms develop.
5. Infected trees, particularly Red Oaks, should be removed promptly.  Red Oak firewood may be another means by which the fungus may be transported to new areas.

Additional research is needed to solve the biology regarding the overland transmission of this potentially devastating tree disease.

More information is available concerning Oak wilt through the Texas A&M extension service, the Texas Forest Service or on the internet at:  http://Cygnus.tamu.edu/texlab/oakwilt.html

If you have any further questions or suspect you may have Oak wilt please give us a call or fill out a QUICK contact form!

Mistletoe is often associated with peace or romance during the holiday season, when in fact, this holiday symbol is actually a harmful parasite of trees.

Invasive Mistletoe

Mistletoe derives its nutrients and moisture from the tree it infects.  Over time, it can weaken areas in large branches resulting in limb failure.  In severe cases, mistletoe can cause a tree to die; this is especially true during periods of drought.

Winter is a great time to address mistletoe in your trees as it is more visible as trees lose their foliage.   North Texans have several susceptible tree species growing in our landscapes.  Cedar Elm, a highly valued tree, is the most commonly infected. Other species include American Elm, Hackberry, Mulberry, Ash, and Bois d’Arc.  All of these species lose their leaves in the winter, revealing the unsightly, evergreen mistletoe.

Winter is also when mistletoe berries mature and spread throughout the tree canopy.  Birds love snacking on the mature berries.  Our feathered friends transport the parasite’s seed to other susceptible tree species in their droppings which creates new infection sites.

To control mistletoe, we remove entire branches or twigs with the parasite.  When large limbs or limbs critical to the structure of the tree are infected we remove the mistletoe only, not the limb.  However, mistletoe regrowth will occur throughout the year.  Mistletoe removal, on average, is necessary about every 2 – 3 years. This addresses the regrowth of old infections, as well as new infections that continually occur on susceptible species.

We can remove mistletoe at anytime of the year.  However, it is much more visible and in most cases more easily removed during winter.  Call one of our qualified ISA Certified Arborists today to help your trees with mistletoe management.

Winter is upon us and many times our trees go without attention.  The dormant season is actually a very good time to prune many of our shade and ornamental trees.  One of the most obvious things we deal with this time of year is mistletoe.

This plant is a parasite that derives its nutrients and moisture from the tree it has infected.  Infections left to develop in trees can lead to weakened areas in larger limbs thus resulting in limb failure.  Once the mistletoe plant matures, seeds are produced which spread throughout the tree canopy, causing multiple infection sites.  Our mistletoe control program is directed toward removing entire branches or twigs infected with mistletoe.  When large limbs or limbs critical to the structure of the tree are infected we remove the mistletoe only, however regrowth occurs.  Mistletoe removal will be necessary about ever 2 to 3 years on average.  This will address regrowth of old infections as well as new infections that will constantly occur on susceptible species.

The North Texas area has a number of susceptible species, many of which are growing in our residential landscapes.  Cedar Elm by far is the most susceptible high value species where we see mistletoe infections.  Other species include American Elm, Hackberry, Mulberry, Ash, and Bois d’ arc.  Winter is also a common time for new infections to occur as birds will consume the fruit that has now matured, and deposit seeds throughout the canopies of susceptible species.  We can remove mistletoe anytime of the year.  However, it is much more visible during the dormant season and in most cases more easily removed this time of year.

Another important process that can be forgotten this time of year is deep root fertilization.  Our process utilizes a high quality organic fertilizer solution applied directly to the root area of our urban shade trees.  This material will be available for uptake by the tree or plant for 6-8 months.  Many of us forget our southern soils rarely, if ever, freeze and soil temperatures are generally quite favorable for root growth and development this time of year.  The mixture we use is applied under pressure which aids in aeration of the root zone as well as uniform distribution throughout the root area of our trees.  Many times the lack of oxygen alone can be the most limiting element in healthy root growth.  This is especially true in the heavy clay soils of North Texas.

Call one of our qualified I.S.A. Certified Arborists to assist you with a plan and an estimate of cost for mistletoe removal and/or deep root fertilization.

The root flare is the portion to the tree where the trunk widens at the base as it transitions to the root system.  This flare occurs at the natural grade of the soil.  It is of critical importance that this level be maintained.  The addition of soil around the base of a tree is extremely damaging as trunk tissue deteriorates slowly when in constant contact with soil and soil moisture.  The critical tissue damaged is the phloem which is responsible for the distribution of food energy manufactured in the  leaves.  As the phloem deteriorates, the tree looses its ability to utilize food energy for growth.  The result is a tree with poor growth, die-back, and eventually, death.  The problem is easy to diagnose.  Examine the base of the tree.  If there is no obvious widening as the trunk enters the ground, then the tree is not at its natural grade.  Remedial action may be necessary if this is the case.

Remedial action involves careful excavation of the excess fill, removal of girdling roots, and in some cases, the construction of a tree well.  Lack of rot flares occur when the trees are planted too deeply, when landscape additions such as flower beds are added around existing trees, or during construction.

I see far too many trees suffering from problems related to improper grade.  In many cases remedial action can help these trees.

As always, our staff is ready to help your trees be their best.

1. It’s time to prune Oaks – especially Live Oaks and Red Oaks.  To avoid the chance of your trees contracting Oak Wilt disease, necessary pruning should be done before February 1, 1995.  The risky and inappropriate time for Oak pruning is February 1 through June 15.  (According to Texas Forest Service).
2. For the best root development, aerification is the key.  Our deep root invigoration process helps considerably with aeration as well as providing your trees with the nutrients required for good growth in our soils.  Fertilization and inspection programs are available.
3. Turf grass and Trees …….. As most of you know, it is extremely difficult to have both beautiful, healthy trees  and a wonderful lawn.  These two types of plants are inherently incompatible.

Trees originated in forests with rich, fertile soils and surface layers covered with decomposing leaves and other organic material.  Yet in many of our landscapes we attempt to grow trees in compacted, disturbed soils with aggressive turf grass competition over the entire root zone.  This competition with grass along with the absence of a humus layer, restricts the development of the absorbing fine roots.  Further, mowing and weed management also lead to tree problems; mechanical bark damage from line trimmers and mowers, as well as the use of herbicides, can cause severe damage to trees whose roots are within the treated area.  Although herbicides that can cause tree damage have precautionary statements on their labels, most applicators do not realize that tree roots extend 2-3 times the branch system.  Therefore, herbicide injury is a frequent occurrence.  Trees cause problems for the grass.  Excessive shade limits photosynthesis and the subsequent production of carbohydrates necessary for turf growth.  Most turf grasses do well in full sun, may tolerate partial shade, and barely survive in heavy shade.

SOLUTIONS:

The most effective strategy to improve conditions for trees is to maintain large, mulched areas around them.  Eliminate grass and use mulch.  A shade tolerant ground cover such as Vinca, English Ivy, Moneywort, or others, can then be introduced into the mulched area, if desired.

For small trees the mulch area should extend to the drip line.  Dramatic growth response can be expected because the mulch improves aeration in the upper portions of the soil, improves water retention and moderates soil temperatures, further, as the mulch decomposes, nutrients become available to the tree.

Tree-Turf conflicts will always be with us, however, beautiful landscapes are attainable if we use the right plants in locations and environments in which they are best suited.

Although the deciduous trees have lost their leaves for the winter and we humans consider the trees to be dormant, physiologically the tree is very active.  New roots are being developed and the tree is preparing itself for the upcoming spring.  It is important to note that photosynthesis may have stopped when the leaves drop, however, respiration does not.  Respiration is the process where food manufactured in the leaves is burned with oxygen obtained through the roots to provide the energy necessary for growth.

What’s the point?  The past several winters have been extremely wet with the soil saturated for long periods of time resulting in low oxygen levels in the soil and consequently a low rate of respiration.  Many of our tree species which prefer a dry site (Texas Red Oak, Chinquapin Oak, etc.) have experienced some problems related to weakened root systems that I believe to be caused by the excess water and low oxygen levels in the soil.

What can I do?  Although no person can control the weather, each of us can control the use of our irrigation system.  Our clay soil should be allowed to cycle through wet and dry periods.  Prior to irrigation check the soil at a depth of 6 to 8 inches.  If it crumbles, it is time to irrigate.  If it packs into a wet clay ball suitable for making pottery, no irrigation is necessary.  Allowing the soil to dry increases the oxygen content and then the respiration rate.  You will have healthier, stronger plants able to withstand our hot Texas summers, if you irrigate less frequently, but thoroughly saturate the root zone when you do irrigate.  The benefits are stronger roots, healthier plants and a lower water bill.

The dormant season is an excellent time for tree pruning.  Live Oaks and Red Oaks should be pruned at this time or in the heat of summer to cut down on the risk of Oak Wilt disease.  Live Oaks and Red Oaks should not be pruned in the spring.

If you have any questions concerning the health of your trees, please call us.  One of our Certified Arborists will be happy to answer your questions.