Landscaping around trees

Jonathan Garner points out the importance of landscapers considering the history and needs of mature trees.

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I trust you're enjoying these cooler times. Over the past season I've been engaged to determine why two mature trees are in decline and what can be done to save them.

As the challenge was fresh in my mind, I figured we should dig a little deeper into what's going on with mature trees when we disrupt or change the conditions they've been living in for most of their lives.

A beauty that I'm working with provides the perfect story for this discussion.

Protection of the asset

Given my love for conifers and my adoration of this particular species, the determination to save it goes beyond my professional duty. During this chat, we'll also unpack some of the details and terminology used in consulting-arborist reports.

Although reports look cram-packed with information, much of it can be copied-andpasted material.

Given the numerous failed existing trees I see within developments, I often wonder whether the people responsible for the protection of these vital assets before, during, and after the project ever take the time to read and adhere to the recommendations.

Further, I often wonder how some consulting arborists provide questionable advice and why local authorities don't pick up on it. What good are tree protection zones during the construction phase if permission is granted to change soil levels and drainage patterns around and beneath trees? Yep, mature trees can be frustrating and quite expensive to work around. As landscape professionals, it's important we respect the plant and the rules put in place for protection of the asset.

Beyond the construction phase, it's equally important we understand how building and landscape works will affect the future well-being of the plant, and I hope this chat will provide a better understanding of what's happening to the tree.