The purpose of this Program is to provide residents with assistance and purchasing power aimed at preserving our extremely valuable large shade trees. When preservation has lost its merits this Program then looks to provide residents with recommended arborists who understand our objectives and work closely with the community to make sound and consistent judgments. And last, when all else fails, the Program provides residents the ability to periodically purchase from a well thought out list of trees who’s future presence gives us greater resilience against future blight and insects. This mission is achievable with ongoing collaboration and participation from all residents.
BUYING & PLANTING PROGRAM
Orders for the Fall 2007 season have already been placed. Please consider participating in this important program next year and remember Spring feeding.
Trees are a valuable investment - one that can add up to 20% to the value of your home. They are an important natural resource for us all. Of course, keeping your trees in top shape is an ongoing process. Like any living thing, a tree has needs that are constantly changing and that are affected by weather, immediate surroundings and everyday circumstances.My inspection revealed that several of the trees in the neighborhood are under some degree of growth stress; some had sparse foliage, yellowing of leaves and stunted terminal buds. Growth stress is directly correlated with a number of factors, including inadequate irrigation, compacted soils, insects and diseases. Deep root fertilization will help improve their vigor and health.
Why Fertilize Trees?
Forest trees usually thrive without the addition of fertilizer, which can give the erroneous impression that trees in general do not require it. However, while forest soils are rich in humus (organic matter) that is replenished by the decay of plant residues, urban soils are usually very low in humus and nutrients. Because leaves in home landscapes are removed (raked away), nature's recycling program for nutrients is interrupted. Because ornamental trees and shrubs are also subjected to harsh and unfavorable soil and environmental conditions, the need for fertilizer is even greater.The addition of fertilizer not only improves the appearance and condition of trees and shrubs, but it helps them to better withstand minor insect and disease problems, drought, and other stresses. Fertilization is not a cure-all, but after years of research we have found that well-nourished trees do not have as many serious and costly problems as unfertilized trees.
One of the most important services for your trees is deep-root fertilization - this needs to be done regularly for preventive care. Davey's Arbor Green 30-10-7 is a complete slow-release fertilizer providing key nutrients for your trees, using a unique, patented formula that's injected right into the root zone. Arbor Green is the slowest-releasing fertilizer available, so there's no danger of burning even the most delicate root systems like those on young trees, so we can fertilize almost anytime of the year. This slow-release fertilizer continues to strengthen your tree throughout the year, improving its ability to resist disease, insect and storm damage.
Cost to deep root fertilize 18-36 inch diameter trees:
1-10 trees: $70 per tree
11-30 trees: $60 per tree 30% - 60%+ DISCOUNT OVER LOCAL MARKET RATES
31+ trees: $50 per treeHow can I participate?
Details for the 2007 Spring Feeding program will be posted at a later date. Please check back.
TRIMMING & REMOVAL
Wiltondale has been blessed with hundreds of majestic shade trees. Most of those were planted by the original developers which mean they’re getting old and fragile. Many factors are currently contributing to their current poor condition, most notably drought. Four years ago we had a severe drought and late Summer ’05 we experience another, albeit less severe. 2004 brought our 17 year friends, the Cicadas, who made it their business to destroy almost all new growth on everything that grows (except the kids) whereby placing yet additional and significant stress on our trees. Age in general has had its impact making it difficult if not impossible to save several of our shade trees. It’s been a rough time for our trees BUT wait! Unless you’re faced with the threat of falling dead limbs or place no value on the shade 40’-50’ trees can provide – wait to see how your tree does in the Spring before making a decision to trim or remove. The recent drought combined with falling temperatures has produce an early and somewhat deceiving defoliate in our trees. Much of this will come back next Spring so we strongly suggest being patient and not making decisions just yet. In addition to waiting be sure to give that tree the help it desperately needs and sign up in the Spring for the Feeding Program.
For trimming and removal services WIA is endorsing Davey Tree and in return getting a WIA Discount for our residents. Their expertise and willingness to support our community in its goal makes them a perfect partner. Please contact Todd Armstrong at todd.armstrong@davey.com or 410-377-4002. Please and be sure to inform us at Parks@Wiltondale.org of your activities so we can monitor the success and challenges of this program and relationship.
If you are interested in participating and receiving the benefits of this new Community Program you can email us at Parks@Wiltondale.org. We and our Partners are willing to assistance you in areas of the Program. The program is self funded with all benefits distributed directly back to the participants. Help us protect our community with you participation and feedback.
DON’T FORGET TO WATER YOUR TREES DURING DROUGHTS!!