We are having some extremely warm weather here in Pasco for July. But honestly, it’s typically like this. With that in mind, ensuring that our trees and landscaping are being taken care of, we should already be prepared for what to do.

Site Conditions
Consider the following site conditions when selecting a tree:
Soil: Soil should have adequate quality and volume to support mature tree growth. Test soil before planting, if possible.

Hardiness zone:

• Exposure to wind and sun – most woody plants require full sunlight, but some do
  well in light shade. Wind can uproot newly planted trees, cause damage during
  storms, and dry out soils. Special maintenance may be required to establish trees
  on windy sites.
• Space constraints – soil volume and proximity of infrastructure as tree mature.
• Nearby human activity – what activities will occur around the planting site? Will
  there be compaction? Vandalism? Will the tree be overwatered by runoff from
  adjacent sites?
• Drainage – Poor drainage can deprive the roots of oxygen and kill the tree.

Susceptibility to pests and diseases
Pests and disease affect almost every species, and pest severity varies geographically. Consult an ISA Certified Arborist to help select trees resistant to pest problems in your area.

Diversity
Avoid planting monocultures, which are more susceptible to disease. Plant a variety of species to provide a more sustainable urban forest.

We will continue this series over the next few months covering a wide array of topics. Don’t forget, when you’re looking for the best tree maintenance company in Pasco, we’d love the chance to earn your business.

We are having some extremely warm weather here in Kennewick for July. But honestly, it’s typically like this. With that in mind, ensuring that our trees and landscaping are being taken care of, we should already be prepared for what to do.

Native Species
Use native species whenever possible; choose stock from a reputable nursery whenever possible and inspect the trees’ condition prior to planting. It is recommended that trees come from Washington nurseries that are current members of the Washington Nursery and Landscape Association Inc.

Approved plantings
The City of Kennewick’s list of approved plantings should serve as a guide for species selection.

Tree Function
Consider the aesthetic and environmental purposes of the tree. Shade trees can make a space more comfortable and reduce cooling costs; ornamental trees produce flowers, fruit, or leaves; evergreens can act as a windbreak. Trees that drop leaves in the fall can allow sunlight to warm the building.

Tree Form and Size
Consider the size and location of the planting site. What size tree works best with space? Are there vertical restrictions on the space such as utility lines overhead or underground? Soil volume is critical for tree growth and longevity. Allowing adequate soil volume for the mature growth and size of the tree will help eliminate conflicts with hardscape and other infrastructure. Are there horizontal restrictions such as sidewalks or driveways? How many other trees are around the planting space? How will the building elevation and foundation interact with the tree and its roots?

We will continue this series over the next few months covering a wide array of topics. Don’t forget, when you’re looking for the best tree maintenance company in Kennewick, we’d love the chance to earn your business.

We are having some extremely warm weather here in the Tri-Cities for July. But honestly, it’s typically like this. With that in mind, ensuring that our trees and landscaping are being taken care of, we should already be prepared for what to do.

Best Management Practices for Tree Preservation
The largest, most mature trees are not always the best to preserve. Younger, more vigorous trees can usually survive and adapt to the stresses of construction better. Try to maintain the diversity of species and ages. A certified arborist can advise on which trees are more sensitive to compaction, grade changes, and root damage. Consider the following factors when deciding which trees to preserve:

• Life expectancy and present age
• Health and disease susceptibility
• Structure
• Cleanliness
• Aesthetic values
• Comfort
• Wildlife
• Adaptability to the proposed development
• Survival needs of the tree
• Relationship to other trees

A tree preservation plan must be prepared which includes the tree inventory and tree protection measures for the project. This should be separate from the Landscape Plan. See the City of Kennewick’s Tree Preservation Plan Checklist.

Planting new trees in the right spaces will help to establish the trees’ longevity and continued health while maximizing their benefits to the site. Consult Top Tree LLC when selecting species. Many factors influence the suitability of specific species to specific sites.

We will continue this series over the next few months covering a wide array of topics. Don’t forget, when you’re looking for the best tree maintenance company in the Tri-Cities, we’d love the chance to earn your business.