Trees, trees trees (don’t forget to look up!)

At a recent Sunrise Association Council (SAC) meeting (a meeting of Fairfield HOA reps), an arborist from Groundskeeper discussed trees. He noted that mature trees can increase the property value significantly. The arborist went on to tell us of the importance of maintaining the trees in the HOA (or your personal yard) as once a tree dies, the replacement value would typically be far less than a mature tree in good condition. The Palo Verde in the picture to the left is in dire need of attention as the mistletoe is choking it. If no intervention occurs, this tree will eventually die.

The arborist mentioned some other points which you may be familiar with but are are worth repeating if you have trees in your yard:

• Regular maintenance particularly on older trees is important to maintain longevity of tree. Remove dead growth, prune mistletoe, thin the crown.
• If you need to replace a tree, pay attention to the size of the planting area. Often homeowners plant trees that will be far too large for the allotted space once tree is mature.
• When picking a tree variety, avoid those that are susceptible to mistletoe (avoid Chilean Mesquite and use Native or Velvet Mesquite instead). Avoid selecting a species that is now listed as invasive such as African Sumac. Other choices exist so consult with a knowledgeable nursery or landscaper and keep with native plant choices.
• When planting new trees, don’t forget that you generally need to irrigate during early development but once established, a tree typically needs a long drink of water monthly (not daily or weekly).
• A new tree needs water close to tree trunk but as it gets established the water should be moved further out to draw the roots out.
• Never thin more than 25% of a tree in a single growing season.
• Never top trees — it is bad for tree health and is unsightly.

Coincidentally, our common area trees were evaluated by Bartlett Tree Service recently and we learned the asset value of the trees on common property is currently around $430,000. Many of the trees are in need of maintenance and we will continue working to address trees in most visible locations and in most severe need of maintenance. This will be a multi-year project. Note in the pictures below a Mesquite which was recently thinned and mistletoe was removed. The other Mesquite has a thick canopy and mistletoe is starting to encroach. This will need attention soon.

If you have a tree on your property, don’t forget to look up and periodically inspect its state. Is there a lot of deadwood in it? Is it full of mistletoe? Does the crown look overly heavy (and therefore susceptible to damage during strong winds)? Involve a licensed arborist to evaluate the tree and do maintenance on the tree. This could do much to extend the life of your tree and maintain your property value. Here are some additional links you might find helpful:

• Why You Shouldn’t Top Trees
• How To Hire A Tree Expert

✉ by Kathy Mitton, SMVE Landscape Chair Phone: (cell)