Winter is the season in California for some of nature’s most severe weather. Storms in all shapes and forms create havoc and one of the greatest dangers posed by storms are presented by falling trees. Unsafe trees are a threat to lives and property. “Many shade and ornamental trees are damaged throughout the year by …
Storms Approaching… Will Your Landscape Survive? Read More »
If you have ever escaped from blazing hot sun in a shady spot under a tree, you know how these natural air conditioners can make you feel more comfortable. In fact, trees in a parking lot can reduce air temperatures by up to 25 degrees than on nearby blacktop. But beyond comfort, planting trees around …
Deer damage to ornamental plants and trees is progressively a suburban area problem. Deer populations in suburban neighborhoods have grown significantly due to uninhibited farms, tighter hunting restrictions and urban sprawl. Deer are very selective feeders that eat leaves and flowers from shrubs and ornamental trees. Damage to larger trees can be found up to 7 …
Exudation of liquid (“bleeding”) from injured trees is caused by pressures within trees that may be localized in different organs depending on species. Most bleeding is caused by root pressure (as in birch and grape), but some is caused by pressure localized in stems (as in maples and palms). Root Pressure Root pressure develops commonly …
Many people envision a large, branching taproot growing deep into the soil. Actually, taproots are very uncommon in mature trees. If taproots do develop, they usually will be forced into horizontal growth when they encounter hard sub soils beneath the surface. Much of the root systems of most trees can be found within three feet …
Broadleaf mistletoe (Phoradendron flavescens var. macrophyllum) is an evergreen parasitic plant that grows on a number of landscape tree species in California. Hosts of the parasite include ash, alder, birch, box elder, cottonwood, locust, silver maple, walnut, and zelkova. Other species of broadleaf mistletoe in California include Phoradendron villosum, which infests only oaks, and Viscum …
