Trees

Do Maple Trees Need Sun Or Shade? Here’s How To Tell

The maple tree. Home of the best syrup on the planet! Of course, an opinion, but one held worldwide by many. There are 128 species and they can live up to 400. Here, we’ll answer an important question; do maple trees need sun or shade?

Maple trees generally grow between hardiness zones 3-9 in the United States. In colder climates of zones 3-6 (north), maple trees need more sun than shade to thrive during the colder months. In zones 7-9 (south), maple trees benefit from both partial sun and partial shade to prevent overheating.

Maple trees are an asset to any property, but because it is a tree, you cannot easily pick up and move it if you need to! Read on to find out more specifics about how much sun (or shade) maple trees actually need.

Maple Tree Sun Or Shade Using Hardiness Zones

Ok, so you are here because you want to know whether the maple tree you are about to plant, move or buy should have sun or shade. Excellent job in taking a proactive approach to your tree planning.

Trees are a lifelong commitment, whether on commercial or private property. Knowing the best place to root down is essential to the life of the tree. Hardiness zones determined by the USDA are important, so let’s investigate this first.

Once you discover that your particular maple tree species needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, the next step is looking up the hardiness zone you’re in.

You can go right to the hardiness zone map at Arbor Day Foundation for the United States. It’s better than the USDA Forestry Map in this situation because you have to search a lot to find the specifics of what you need.

Best Practices For Maple Planting According To Hardiness Zone

So, let’s say you are interested in a Japanese maple. Before you attempt to buy and plant one, find out what hardiness zone it should be in. The same amount of sunlight or shade is not the same between two extreme climates.

A good example is if your maple tree of interest belongs in Arizona because it is hardy enough to take the extreme heat, yet you put it in New Jersey. The tree may not take it very well.

Even if you put it out in the direct sunlight in upstate New Jersey, the cloud cover and temperature dips and extremes will deteriorate that tree. So, if your maple takes a lot of heat, do not put it in an area with frequent cold weather.

So, this relationship is complicated. Going by the hardiness map and matching it with the specific species is best.

Now, let’s look at some of the most popular maples in North America, along with the facts you need to know.

Take into account the number of seeds you will be cleaning up in the future as well. You can read our full list of the maple trees that produce the most helicopter seeds, so you know what to expect from your maple tree!

How Much Sun Or Shade Does My Maple Tree Need?

The Sugar Maple Tree

Hardiness Zones: 3-5 | Ideally in Full Sun

The primary role of this maple is syrups, which make them aptly named. It grows well in a nice cold winter, so great for those climates with snow and ice. This type will yield the most beautiful fall show of color over any other species.

Native Geography: Eastern Canada; Central North America; Northeastern America.

Best Soil: Acidic, drained sufficiently, and low salt content. Must have a lot of space to sprawl out and grow.

If you are interested in learning about sugar maple trees and their syrup production, check out our article on the most common trees that make maple syrup!

Red Maple Tree

Hardiness Zones: 3-9 | Ideally 10 hours of sunlight per day

The red maple is an all-around maple. It can live in all conditions such as wet, wind, severe heat, dry, and excessive cold. A great maple for those who have never planted a tree and are nervous about failing.

You may also know this maple as the soft maple or swamp maple. It will grow up to 24 inches per year.

Native Geography: You can find them most often in the Northeastern United States.

Best Soil: You can plant this tree in nearly anything such as clay, sand, acidic, drained, and moist. Give it ten hours of sunlight per day.

Silver Maple Tree

Hardiness Zones: 3-9

The sugar maple has an interesting character as it grows in the shape of a vase and it has the largest seeds of all the maples! Similar to the red maple tree, the silver maple is quite versatile and can thrive in the majority of hardiness zones.

Native Geography: East Central United States and Southeastern Canada.

Best Soil: Deep and moist acidic soil.

Paperbark Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 5

You may know this tree as blood bark as well from its red, peeling bark. This is one of the slowest growing maples.

Native Geography: China

Best Soil: Acidic, but not too much, and well-drained soil.

Amur Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 3

This is a shorter tree and is quite invasive. Do not put this maple anywhere the seeds can travel too much. It should be planted in a place with low humidity and cold weather a majority of the time.

Native Geography: Northeast Asia, Southeast Russia, but can be found in North America and Europe.

Best Soil: Acidic or Neutral

Striped Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 4 | Full shade or partial sun

You may also know the striped maple as moose or goosefoot maple. You can tell it’s a striped maple when it’s young before the bark turns brown. It will have white and green stripes.

Native Geography: Found in Northern America.

Best Soil: Moist and need full shade or partial sun most of the time.

Korean Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 4

The Korean maple tree is also known as the purple bloom maple and can grow to 25 feet with purple and white flower blooms.

Native Geography: Russia, China, and Korea

Best Soil: Well-watered, moist soil. Protect from droughts, and very high winds

Japanese Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 6 (tolerant in zones 5-8)

This maple is a shrub, is short, and grown mostly in containers out of the ground. You can grow it in the ground, but be sure to follow the soil and watering appropriate for it.

It’s one of the least hearty of the maples. Any prolonged drought or being planted in poorly drained soil can kill the tree.

Native Geography: Japan, Mongolia, China, Russia, and Korea

Best Soil: Well-watered, moist soil.

Norway Maple Tree

Hardiness Zones: 4-7

In North America, it isn’t planted much because of its invasive quality. The roots grow close to the surface of the soil so it robs nutrients from neighboring plants and trees.

However, it can live through some drought.

Native Geography: Western Europe, Central, and Eastern Europe.

Best Soil: Moist and well-drained soil

Freeman Maple Tree

Hardiness Zone: 4

Freeman maple trees do well in cities and urban conditions. The soil can be Alkaline and yhey produce bright red colors and a fantastic fall show!

Native Geography: American Eastern Region

Best Soil: Alkaline

How Long Does A Newly Planted Red Maple Tree Take To Grow?

The red maple tree grows between 1-2ft per year and will stop new growth at about 25-30 years. It will grow plenty of leaves before it halts its growth and provides a good amount of shade to a small circumference around it.

To understand the growth of the red maple, we must know the facts about the maple tree as a whole.

The key is to know the species you have, the hardiness zone you are in, and how to care for it from birth to maturity and beyond. A maple tree could take between 10-15 years or 20-30 years to mature.

Once the red maple matures completely, it will end up in the neighborhood of 40 to 60 feet tall and up to 45 feet in circumference. You’ll enjoy the red color each year as it gets stronger and bolder.

The red maple gets its name from the red flower blooms that will soon turn into stems that will then turn into the red leaves we commonly know. Most people don’t know they bloom flowers, but they do.

The flowers are the way the tree spreads its seeds and flourishes. If you notice red flowers getting caught up in the breeze and falling to the ground, you can do something great to encourage the growth of new maples. Take them and plant the seeds within them.

If you are not interested in having more maples, then rake up the flowers and dispose of them so you do not have unwanted sprouts on the property. They are hearty and easy bloomers!

What Is The Best Place To Plant Maple Trees For Full Sun Or Shade?

Young maple sprout fenced with a painted tire in the spring sun. Glowing leaves in the ambient light.

The most common type of maple is the Red maple. This maple tree has a root system that will push up your pavement. So, make sure that you don’t have it near any structure or sidewalk.

So, the best place to plant your maple tree is somewhere with no underground structures in a clear, open field. If your maple tree needs shade, plant it in a way that when the sun hits a nearby building or structure, the maple tree will be covered by the shade for part of the day.

What’s The Best Time To Plant A Maple Tree?

As long as the ground you have chosen is not frozen, you can plant them anytime. However, you may want to plant in the fall for the most optimal time. The ground is not frozen, the weather is cooler, and you can still manage the soil.

New grower? Try this Red Maple Tree Seed Grow Kit. It includes everything you need to care for your tree from the seed. You get the seeds, growing medium, a mini-greenhouse, and detailed instructions… fancy!

Make sure you plant them in either full sun or no more than partial shade. We must take advantage of the nutrients from our big gas giant. The soil should also be well-drained.

Now, before you sink the tree into the ground, the hole should be as deep as the container the tree came in if you are planting a sapling. It should also be about 3 feet wide.

Check the soil line left on the stem of the sapling. Make sure the soil is NOT deeper than that to prevent root rot.

Now you should fill the hole, starting with the soil the sapling came with. If you need more, make sure you do NOT get soil with any fertilizer or any other component in it.

Remove the air pockets by filling them with dirt and packing it. Not too tight, just enough to make it firm. You can use your hands to pack the soil in.

Once you have filled the hole, water it deeply. You can add 3-4 inches of mulch to keep it moist.

Most Important Tip For Planting Maple Trees

Never force a maple tree to grow too fast; this can be fatal to the tree. You may not notice it until it’s too late. Never fertilize the maple tree until the second spring after planting.

If there is nothing wrong with how it’s growing–then just do not fertilize–period.

Although, if you do decide your tree requires fertilizer, read 5 Best Maple Tree Fertilizers (And How To Use Them) to choose which one to use!

There’s a way to try your hand at growing a tree for the first time. Or, you can have your kids learn with a Brussel’s Bonsai Live Trident Maple Outdoor Bonsai Tree. These trees have been taken care of for 5 years already, and are ready for you to enjoy their beauty.

That’s A Wrap!

Well, that’s all we have! We hope you have much maple planting success! Take this information and pick the perfect tree for you.

See you in the next piece and thanks for stopping by!

Resources

Westermann, C. M., Leeuwen, R., Raamsdonk, L. W. D., & Mol, H. G. J. (2016). Hypoglycin A Concentrations in Maple Tree Species in the Netherlands and the Occurrence of Atypical Myopathy in Horses. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 30(3), 880–884.

Bauce, E., & Allen, D. C. (1991). Etiology of a sugar maple decline. Canadian Journal of Forest Research, 21(5), 686–693.

Bauce, E., & Allen, D. C. (1992). Role of Armillaria calvescens and Glycobius speciosus in a sugar maple decline. Canadian Journal of Forest Research, 22(4), 549–552.

By Zack DeAngelis
March 16, 2022

10 Silver Oak Tree Uses (And What To Do With Yours)

A tall and stately tree, silver oaks can grow over 100 feet tall with a 30-foot spread of nice cool shade. They thrive in moderately dry, tropical climates such as Florida and California. But silver oak trees have more uses than just a pretty shade tree.

Silver oak trees, also called silk, silky, and southern silky oak, have many uses. Along with providing shade, silver oak trees can be used as windbreaks, fuelwood, veneer, to make musical instruments, cabinets, and for reforestation. They also provide nectar to pollinating birds and insects.

This multi-use tree is more than just something pretty to look at in your backyard. Silver oaks have some amazing uses you can take advantage of!

What Are Silver Oak Trees?

Despite their name, silver oak trees are not part of the oak tree family. They belong to a family of trees known as Proteaceae. Don’t ask us how to pronounce that! Macadamia nut trees belong to the same family.

There are thousands of species under this large family umbrella, ranging from herbs and shrubs to large trees.

Silver oak trees are the largest tree in their genus, Grevillea. You may know this genus by another name: spider flowers. Species in this genus commonly produce nectar for bees, ants, and birds. However, you will not see any animals eating the flowers or fruits as they contain cyanide.

Where Do Silver Oak Trees Live?

The silver oak goes by many names: southern silky oak, Australian silver oak, silk oak, and silky oak.

These trees are picky about where they live. In the United States, their range is the southern tips of Florida and Texas, Southern Arizona, and Southern California. They’re also present in Hawaii.

Silver oaks are native to Australia according to the US Forest Service. Specifically, they are from the east coast of Queensland, down to New South Wales. In New South Wales, they consider these pesky trees weeds because they pop up so quickly.

What Climates Do Silver Oak Trees Grow In?

Judging by where these trees grow, you can tell they like warm climates. If they have to, silver oaks can survive down to 18℉ and up to 95℉. However, they prefer temperatures between 50℉ and 80℉. Who wouldn’t?

Speaking of picky climates, silver oaks are also fastidious about moisture. They cannot grow in wet, soggy, swampy soils. Instead, they need well-drained soils and prefer slightly acidic conditions.

Talk about a picky tree!

The pH of your soil can affect the growth of any plant. For more information on what certain trees prefer and how to amend your soil to their liking, What pH Level Do Trees Actually Like For Best Growth? is a great place to start!

Most folks living in the U.S. will never see a silver oak tree because they prefer tropical, warm climates. Even those living in southern New Mexico do not see silver oak trees. However, for those living in Hawaii, you will see silver oaks on most of the islands.

Under ideal conditions, silver oak trees will reach an average height of 75-100 feet with a single, straight trunk at full maturity. They are fast growers, growing at a minimum of 3 feet per year, sometimes 10 feet!

Now that we know where silver oaks live and what their favorite growing conditions are, let’s check out all the uses for your silver oak tree and what you can do with yours.

10 Silver Oak Tree Uses (And What To Do With Yours)

Beautiful silk or silver oak tree with yellow flowers in spring time

If you have a silver oak tree in your yard or are thinking about planting one, you may wonder what it’s good for. What can you do with a silver oak tree?

The number one use for residential silver oak trees is for shade and ornamentation, but don’t worry, we’ll also talk about some other uses such as the timber industry and even the rock n’ roll industry!

Let’s get to it!

Silver Oak Trees Are Used As Ornamental Trees

Their massive size puts silver oak trees in the ‘skyline’ tree category. They dominate the landscapes they are growing in and like to be the center of attention.

Now, if you have a small yard in the city, silver oak trees are not recommended. According to the University of Florida, you should not plant them near a house because of their size and spread.

The large spread of silver oak trees is not the only problem with planting them near a house. Silver oaks are brittle and shed their leaves, despite being evergreens. In high winds, the tops of the trees can even snap off!

So, why in the world would you want to plant a silver oak in your yard?

Well, if you have the land, they are an excellent choice for a centerpiece or statement tree in your landscape. When the flowers bloom in the spring, they are a brilliant yellow-orange. Coupled with long, fern-like leaves, the silver oak is a beautiful tree to see.

It is also an evergreen tree, so you do not have to worry about it losing its leaves and growing bare in the winter months. Although, the silver oak loses a lot of its leaves throughout the year due to wind and inclement weather.

Silver oak trees have been used industrially as ornamental street trees. When planted along roads and trimmed properly, these trees can be pleasant to look at and their roots have minimal impact on sidewalks and streets.

Silver Oak Trees Are Used For Shade

With a mature height sometimes reaching over 100 feet, silver oak trees are the perfect choice for shade. It has a large spread, providing up to 30 feet of shade in all directions.

These are magnificent trees to plant in large fields for farm animals to rest under on hot summer days. They are also nice in large yards, providing shade for family picnics and outings as long as the wind isn’t too high!

It’s not recommended to hang a tire swing from these trees because of brittle branches.

Silver oaks provide shade for agricultural plants too. Tea bushes and coffee plants need protection from extreme sun, rain, wind, and cold. Silver oaks make for a great umbrella over these economically important crops.

Using silver oaks in this manner is popular in India and Sri Lanka, according to the US Forest Service. Protecting coffee with silver oaks is a common practice in Hawaii, India, and Brazil.

Silver Oak Trees Are Used As Windbreaks

Another great use for silver oak trees is to use them as windbreaks. After all, they’re massive, right? Might as well!

So, what exactly is a windbreak? Windbreaks are used to, well, break the wind and slow it down. Slowing the wind means less erosion, less damage, and better conditions for crops.

You can buy artificial windbreakers like the Royal Shade Windscreen. This is a good option if you need protection against the wind right now, instead of 10 years later when a silver oak may grow tall enough to provide wind protection.

Windbreaks create a better environment for soil, livestock, and wildlife. Silver oaks are not a great windbreaker. They may be super tall, but as the tree ages their branches grow brittle and easily break off.

In Florida, silver oak trees serve an important role in preventing Citrus canker according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Citrus cankers result from a bacterium that infects citrus trees, causing brown spots and lesions on the fruit.

Silver oak trees are not very cold tolerant, so they are mainly used in the southern coastal areas. The bacteria responsible for citrus cankers travels in windy rain, where it gets deposited into the stomates of vulnerable citrus trees.

When using silver oaks, the number of lesions observed on vulnerable trees was lower and the spread of the disease was reduced to only a few plants instead of an entire nursery.

Silver Oaks Provide Nectar For Wildlife

Trees not only provide us with oxygen and shade, but they also provide food and homes to a lot of wildlife. Squirrels, birds, beetles, deer, raccoons, and tons of other wildlife benefit from trees and their fallen fruits and nuts.

The silver oak provides a special sort of reward for visiting wildlife: nectar! According to a study published in Austrul Ecology, honeybees and ants take advantage of this trait the most, but birds also get in on the action.

During the study, they observed birds were better pollinators for silver oaks than bees or ants, but that bees and ants often hogged the nectar so that cross-pollination happened far less often than it should have.

If you want to give the birds a better chance at the nectar, consider hanging a bee habitat like SunVara Wild Pollinator Mason Bee Habitat from a nearby tree. Bees will cruise on over to this setup, giving the birds some breathing room.

Silver oak trees are important honey trees in India, where the nectar is converted and sold as honey.

Silver Oaks Are Used For Fuelwood

There’s nothing better than sitting around a fire on a warm summer night, watching the flames rise and disappear into the night.

Ready to have a bonfire yet? Silver oak wood makes fantastic firewood!

Silver oak trees are easy to grow in warm climates, and they do not compete too much with their neighboring plants and trees. For this reason, silver oaks are often planted in plantations where they are harvested for specific purposes. Like fuelwood, for example.

Another commodity silver oaks are used for is timber. These trees grow fast and straight, so they are perfect for the timber industry.

You can read more about using oak trees for firewood here!

Silver Oak Trees Are Used As Veneer

For those of us out there unfamiliar with woodworking, you are not alone! The word ‘veneer’ is probably known but not well defined in the average person’s mind.

The veneer is the ‘face’ of a wood product. It can make a TV stand appear like solid oak or a chest look like dark cherry. Underneath most wood products is simple particleboard.

Since people often dislike having particle board as a style in their home, a veneer is an important commodity in the wood industry. Silver oaks have a unique appearance referred to as ‘lacewood.’ It ranges from a silvery gray to brown with vertical striations.

In recent years, silver oak veneer has caused allergic reactions in some folks who are sensitive to the wood.

Silver Oaks Are Used To Make Doors, Windows, and Cabinets

Not only are silver oak trees used for the face of wood products, but they’re also used to build stuff! The wood of silver oaks resembles that of an actual oak tree according to California Polytechnic State University, making it an attractive wood in the industry.

Remember how we said silver oak trees grow pretty fast? This quality makes the silver oak one of the better trees to use for wood products because they are more sustainable.

In just two years, silver oaks can reach a height of 10 feet!

Silver oak trees are used to make cabinets, doors, windows, and furniture. The reason they used the wood for these purposes is silver oak tree wood is resistant to rot.

This makes it an excellent candidate for wood products exposed to the elements, like doors and windows.

Silver Oak Trees Are Used To Make Musical Instruments

Because silver oak trees resemble the wood of an oak tree, it’s commonly used to make beautiful musical instruments.

Silver oaks are considered ‘soft’ hardwoods. The wood is easily worked without splintering or breaking, making it an ideal choice for instruments. Normally, softwood trees are chosen for musical instruments, but hardwoods are used occasionally.

The popular belief about hardwoods and softwoods is that hardwood is hard, and softwood is soft, right? While this is true for a lot of hardwood and softwood trees, it’s not true for all.

According to Penn State University, back in the days of two-man saws and whittling wood into tools, the hardest trees to whittle and cut were called hardwoods. The trees easiest to work with and cut, they considered softwoods.

When scientists came around with their calipers and notepads, they were not convinced this is how they should categorize hardwood and softwood. Instead, they noticed the trees labeled ‘hardwood’ were all deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the fall. All the softwoods were evergreen.

At last, they found a labeling system for hardwoods and softwoods!… right?

Well, as they moved west and south, it became a lot more confusing as some fall-shedders turned out to be softwoods, and some evergreens turned out to be hardwoods.

Nowadays, they use a method called the Janka-ball hardiness test to categorize trees into hardwoods and softwoods. The test is as bizarre as it sounds, involving a hard metal ball shot into the wood.

Nonetheless, silver oaks, silky oaks, whatever you may call them, are used to make musical instruments like guitars and violins. They can also be used as veneer wood on instruments.

Silver Oaks Are Used As Reforestation Trees

Reforestation is an important response to the continually rising population in the United States. For many years, the rate of forest growth to forest cutdowns has been relatively stable, but with population growth comes forest decline.

But reforestation isn’t as simple as throwing a few seeds down and waiting for the trees to grow. Scientists have gotten reforestation down to, well, an exact science!

According to the Virginia Department of Forestry, when a forest is first establishing itself, it is just an open field of grasses and shrubs. Lightweight seeds get carried on the wind and deposited in the field. These first trees are called ‘pioneer’ trees and grow fast in a full-sun environment.

Despite establishing and growing quickly, pioneer trees do not live as long as other trees established later on. As the pioneer trees grow, other trees that are long-lived and do not require full sun creep up.

As the pioneer trees die off, the later trees establish themselves, and the forest is considered established.

Silver oak trees typically live around 100 years. They are sun-loving and fast-growing, making them excellent candidates for pioneer trees in the reforestation process.

Reforestation activities using silver oak trees are limited to the environments they can survive in. Silver oaks are not a good choice for reforesting areas in northern Montana, for example, as the cold-intolerant trees would not survive.

Instead, silver oaks stick to warm climates like the southern regions of Florida, Texas, and California.

Silver Oak Trees Provide Nesting Areas For Native Birds

Trees are an important part of most ecosystems. They provide food, shade, shelter, and homes to many animals, big and small.

Beetles, ants, bees, birds, squirrels, and bears all rely on trees, which are always giving to nature! Silver oak trees are no different. If you have one in your yard, you can expect tons of wildlife to be attracted to them:

Birds: Native birds will make nests in silver oak trees, using leaf litter and twigs to make a comfy home. Since silver oak trees are large and evergreen, they provide the perfect amount of shade and protection for nesting birds.

These trees also attract birds because of their nectar. The bright yellow-orange flowers that bloom in the spring will bring plenty of beautiful birds around.
Insects: Just like birds, pollinating insects will be attracted to the colorful flowers blooming in the spring. The colorful flowers of the silver oak tree attract bees and ants.
Mammals: Some trees attract animals because of the fruit it drops, such as the acorns dropped from an oak tree. Silver oaks do not attract animals with their fruit, but they are attractive to animals like squirrels and raccoons who may nest in any hollow cavities of the tree.

You can learn more about how oak tree leaves attract these types of creatures as well here: 5 Animals & Insects That Eat Oak Tree Leaves.

Problems With Silver Oak Trees

Grevillea robusta, Silky oak, Australian silver oak, Evergreen tree with dark green bipinnatifid fern like leaves and gloden-orange bottlebrush like flowers and leathery about 2 cm long fruits

Silver oak trees are pretty useful, not only for nature and animals but for people too! However, before you plant silver oak trees in your yard, let’s check out some drawbacks.

Silver Oak Trees Are Susceptible To Lightning & Wind Damage

Your tall and stately silver oak tree may grow fast and far, but it may not last. Because silver oaks are so tall, they are often hit by lightning according to the. This is one more reason not to plant these trees close to your home.

If your oak tree has been struck by lightning, you can read Oak Tree Struck By Lightning? What Happens & How To Save It to learn more about the upcoming necessary processes.

Another weather-related problem with silver oak trees is wind damage. The branches and tips of the tree are rather brittle as the tree gets older. A powerful gust of wind in a storm can cause branches to fall off and even the tips of the tree to break.

Silver Oaks Cause Extensive Leaf Litter

As we just mentioned, silver oak trees are susceptible to inclement weather. They truly are picky trees! Too much wind, rain, lightning, and silver oaks get upset…

Unfortunately, branches are not the only brittle part of the tree in a windstorm. Although silver oaks are evergreen, their leaves are often shed on windy days, creating large amounts of leaf litter.

Not cool for the homeowner obsessed with a clean landscape…

Wrapping Things Up

Silver oak trees prefer full sun, warm temperatures, and aren’t big on cold, windy, or wet conditions. These trees serve many purposes in the extreme southern regions of the United States, like Florida, Texas, and California.

To recap, here are 10 silver oak tree uses:

Ornamental landscape tree
Shade tree
Windbreak
Honey tree/nectar for animals
Fuelwood
Veneer wood
Doors, windows, & cabinets
Musical instruments
Reforestation
Nesting for native birds & mammals

In terms of the average homeowner, the qualities most important on this list would be using silver oaks as an ornamental tree, shade tree, fuelwood, and for wildlife viewing.

Silver oak trees are also important in the timber industry and for reforestation projects. However, declines in the native population of silver oak trees have made them less available for commercial production.

So, if you have a silver oak tree in your yard, cherish it. It might be the only one around for many, many miles!

If you are interested in learning more about the trees around your yard, check out our homepage for more information on oaks, maples, apples, and all kinds of different trees. You will not ‘be-leaf’ all the information we have!

If you’d like to learn more about oak trees in general, check out our guide on the most popular fallen oak tree uses here!

References

Afzal, M., Farman, M., Rasib, K. Z., & Qureshi, N. A. (2019, April). Biocidal action of silver oak (Grevillea robusta) leaf extract on the termite Heterotermes indicola Wasmann (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae). International Biodeterioration & Biodegredation, 139, 1-10.

Besley, J. (2009, July). This noble species: Grevillea robusta. Australian Garden History, 21(1), 4-8.

Kalinganire, A., Harwood, C. E., Slee, M. U., & Simons, A. J. (2002, January 15). Pollination and fruit-set of Grevillea robusta in western Kenya. Austral Ecology, 26(6), 637-648.

Owate, O. A., Mware, M. J., & Kinyanjui, M. J. (2018). Allometric Equations for Estimating Silk Oak (Grevillea robusta) Biomass in Agricultural Landscapes of Maragua Subcounty, Kenya. International Journal of Forestry Research, 2018, 14.

By Zack DeAngelis
March 14, 2022

Here’s How Often You Should Actually Water An Orange Tree

Have you ever wondered about the amount of water you should be giving your citrus tree or, more specifically, your orange tree? Especially as a new orange tree owner, this is a great question and one that might seem a little bit confusing at first. So, how much should you water an orange tree?

A young orange tree should be watered every few days, but a more mature tree can be watered anywhere from weekly to about once a month. If it’s during the dry season, you should water your orange tree every few days or when the soil has dried up. During the rainy season, you may not need to water your orange tree.

To understand the needs of an orange tree, we should first briefly discuss what this tree is, exactly and, later, how to care for your tree beyond watering practices. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get into it!

How Much Water Does An Orange Tree Need?

Oranges on orange tree plants in an orange orchard

Orange trees are citrus trees and are related to about 60 other species within that citrus genus. This type of tree may be known for growing in drier, more tropical environments but what does that mean in terms of the amount of water and other support you give your growing tree?

Citrus trees, by nature, don’t need quite as much water as other types of deciduous trees.

However, while overwatering is a genuine concern, in this case, so is underwatering.

You’ll want to maintain a good balance when it comes to how much you decide to water your citrus tree, as well as how often watering is to occur.

A young orange tree, for example, is going to need much less water than a larger and more mature tree.

While a young orange tree should be watered every few days, a more mature tree can be watered anywhere from weekly to once or twice a month.

This is all contingent upon what kind of soil the tree is planted in, how hot the temperature may be, and what other environmental factors may need to be considered.

The University of Arizona’s College of Agriculture notes that the method known as basin irrigation is the easiest watering method for a homeowner.

This method entails a simple process, which includes building a basin around the tree that is at least as wide as the canopy.

If you extend the basin a bit further, about a foot beyond the canopy of the tree, you’ll have a higher chance of covering the majority of the roots.

Then, you will just simply fill the basin as the orange tree needs water. This method helps to ensure that your tree will retain the water it is given, as opposed to losing much of it to the soil around the tree.

What Else Do Orange Trees Need Besides Proper Watering?

fresh oranges on plant, orange trees in orchard

There are some important things to consider when looking at the success of your orange tree which, in turn, leads to the quality of the oranges you will see being produced.

If you’re hoping to produce great oranges and know that your tree is growing at the best rate with the strongest possibilities for success, then you’ll want to consider a few factors.

Alright, so let’s get into it!

1. Good Soil

What exactly does this mean? Is there a certain type of soil that orange trees will do best in?

Since an orange tree is a citrus tree, it is going to do best with soil that is slightly acidic, anywhere from 5.0 to 6.5 on the pH scale.

You can use a product like this Garden Tutor Soil pH Test Kit to check the pH of the soil you’ve already got.

If you are looking to add soil that has the correct pH and other properties, you could begin with Soil Sunrise Citrus Plant and Tree Soil, which comes in an 8-quart bag and is hand mixed.

On that note, the location in which an orange tree is planted will have a huge effect on the way it can grow and flourish.

2. Good Climate And Location

The location that your tree is planted in has a lot to do with the overall success of the tree and the fruit it can produce.

If you’ve never heard of USDA Hardiness Zones, these are going to change your tree-growing life!

They refer to regions across the United States with varying average annual minimum winter temperatures.

That’s a mouthful, huh? Really, they offer an easy way to differentiate the minimum temperatures in a certain region.

For example, USDA Hardiness Zone 9a refers to any region whose average minimum temperature in the winter months gets down to about (but not below) 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Orange trees can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, meaning that minimum temperatures from 20 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit are the lowest range of temperatures that will not cause undue stress on the tree.

The entire southern United States, from Southern California to Florida, has the proper environment for growing orange trees.

3. Limited Weeds

Keeping weeds away from your trees might seem simple, and maybe even a little obvious, but you’d be surprised by how often this step is overlooked.

Weeds require water and nutrients that are quickly sapped from your tree, making you orange tree watering efforts less worthwhile.

So, take a minute and wack those weeds every once in a while!

We’ve got even more on tropical trees, check out our article on palm trees 5 Reasons New Orleans Has Palm Trees (Plus Growing Tips)

Promote Healthy Orange Tree Growth By Watering, Fertilizing And Trimming

fresh oranges on plant, orange trees in an orange orchard

There are a few more easy steps that you can take to keep your tree maintained on a regular basis, not just when you are trying to make sure it is being properly watered.

So here are a few more things you can do to have a happy tree!

1. Monitor Your Orange Tree

One aspect of general tree maintenance is the simple act of keeping an eye out for anything that seems out of the ordinary.

By checking your tree every once in a while, you’ll be able to notice early signs of disease, infestation, malnourishment, underwatering, and more.

This can be crucial when it comes to preventative measures, as well.

2. Hydrate Your Orange Tree So It Can Create More Oranges

Speaking of preventative measures, watering should be done regularly based on the size and age of the tree. Remember, a young tree may need to be watered every couple of days, while a more mature tree that retains more water (if it is healthy and properly cared for) might only need to be watered twice a month or so.

3. Promote Growth Of Your Orange Tree By Fertilizing

lush orange tree with juicy fruits in the garden under sunlight

As you probably know by now, especially if you are an avid reader of ours, fertilizing is one of the absolute best things you can do for your plants.

This is an especially important tactic when you are trying to promote healthy and sustainable growth in your tree.

So, what kind of fertilizer would be the most beneficial for an orange tree?

Great question!

Have you ever heard of an NPK value? If not, it stands for Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, and refers to the balance of these three different elements in any given fertilizer.

As a citrus tree, orange trees will tend to need a balanced fertilizer, NPK 6-6-6 for example, that also contains other minerals such as zinc, iron, copper, and others.

If you want to opt for a fertilizer that is citrus-oriented but also won’t break your bank, you can trust Miracle-Gro Shake’N Feed Citrus, Avocado, and Mango Plant Food, this is a game-changer!

4. Prune The Branches Of Your Orange Tree

Pruning is another important tactic when it comes to making sure that your tree is in tip-top shape. By removing any dead, weak, decaying, or infested orange tree branches as needed, the rest of your tree can put its energy into growth as opposed to fighting off any sort of issues that come from damaged branches.

You can use a cheap but good quality set of shears like these Gonicc 8” Professional Sharp Bypass Pruning Shears for ease and the confidence of knowing that you have a good product to use.

Orange You Glad You Stuck With Us?

fresh oranges on orange tree plant, orange trees

Sorry for that one, but we had to.

Anyway, thanks for sticking around to learn about some methods to best care for your orange tree. We wish you the best of luck as you continue along your tree journey.

May your tree produce the best, juiciest oranges while you endure the least stress and work!

Until next time friends, see you soon.

Learn more about tropical trees in our article Here’s How Tall Coconut Trees Actually Grow!

References

González, Z., Rosal, A., Requejo, A., & Rodríguez, A. (2011). Production of pulp and energy using orange tree prunings. Bioresource Technology, 102(19), 9330-9334.

Phogat, V., Skewes, M. A., Cox, J. W., Alam, J., Grigson, G., & Šimůnek, J. (2013). Evaluation of water movement and nitrate dynamics in a lysimeter planted with an orange tree. Agricultural water management, 127, 74-84.

By Zack DeAngelis
March 14, 2022

5 Simple Steps To Save A Tree With Stripped Bark

As you are probably very aware, trees can require quite a bit of maintenance when they have sustained damage. If you are looking for some quick, simple steps to save a tree with stripped bark, you might be wondering what solutions are out there!

Here are five simple steps to save a tree with stripped bark:

Assess the tree’s damage
Determine its viability
Clean up any torn bark on the tree
Perform a bridge graft
Fertilize and replenish the tree

When a tree has been damaged, quick action is important. That’s why it’s good to know what to do before it happens! Before we continue our discussion of what exactly these steps are, let’s dive into how bark becomes stripped and what that looks like when it happens to your tree.

What is Stripped Tree Bark?

Stripped bark refers to any bark that has been pulled off, stripped, from the trunk of a tree. This may manifest as a small strip or two of bark missing from a tree, but it could also show up in a larger capacity where there may barely be any bark left at all.

What Strips Tree Bark To Begin With?

So, you know what stripped bark is, but how does it get that way in the first place?

Well, several different factors can cause the bark to end up being stripped from a tree. The first of these reasons happens to be the most sudden and the most disastrous of them.

1. Storms

What may appear just to be a rainy evening can turn into an event that has dire consequences for your plant life, namely your trees.

When there is a storm, including lighting, you’ve probably been told to avoid sitting under a tree. This is because trees act as a conductor for any energy coming its way, including the explosive power of lightning.

Essentially, if lightning strikes your tree, the energy will move through the tree and heat any water inside the tree. Almost simultaneously, there will be an explosive force caused by this heat and energy that will knock the bark off of the exterior of the tree.

Storms aren’t the only natural occurrence that could cause the bark to be stripped off of a tree, though. Animals are also a common culprit, if less catastrophic than lighting.

You can check out our full list of the most common trees that get struck by lightning to see if one of these trees in in your yard.

2. Animals

Squirrels do not eat the bark off of trees, but rather prefer the phloem layer of tissue just under the bark that we mentioned is so vital to the tree’s overall well-being. This tissue is sweeter than the external bark, and squirrels will tear away the outer layer to get to what they want.

Typically, squirrels will opt for smaller trees as their bark may be more easily removed, but they are not the only animals that have a reason to go for the bark of trees.

Critters as small as beetles and as big as elephants consume tree bark and small branches. While humans cannot extract nourishment from these materials, the animals that eat them have digestive systems that were designed to allow for just that.

Without the necessary enzymes in a creature’s digestive system, the bark wouldn’t do much good. This is where, for example, squirrels come in. While they don’t eat the bark-like beetles, termites, mice, and elephants do, they certainly strip it from the tree in search of what they do want to eat.

It isn’t just natural phenomena that cause the bark to be stripped from the tree, however. Manmade machinery like cars, tractors, and other vehicles can also cause some damage.

3. Vehicles

While natural occurrences like storms and wildlife often tend to be the cause behind bark stripping, humans also play a sizeable role in damaging trees.

A vehicle either scraping against or hitting a tree head-on will likely lead to some damage. No matter how small, there is one result that is more likely than the rest. Most often, this damage will be seen in the form of bark splitting or being stripped away altogether.

If the collision is more serious, of course, this may lead to even larger issues. For your sake, and the sake of your tree, we would hope that bark being stripped away is the biggest issue this sort of situation would create.

To learn more about natural processes that can strip trees of their bark, check out our article 4 Reasons Bark Is Falling Off Your Oak Tree: Cause & Solution.

5 Simple Steps To Save A Tree with Stripped Bark

Okay, okay! The moment you’ve been waiting for is here. The simple steps to save a tree with stripped bark. You’ll appreciate them because they’re manageable, your tree will thank you for the proper care, and the rest will follow.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to solve your stripped bark dilemma. Like anything else, this might depend a little on the situation and its severity, but we hope this helps provide a good starting point.

1. Assess The Tree’s Damage

Other than the storm damage (vehicular damage, etc.) is the tree healthy? Working to care for a tree with stripped bark will only do so much, especially if the tree itself is a safety hazard or on its way to dying anyway.

Is there any other major damage to the tree that might need to be considered like branches that were torn away or are there a large gash into the trunk itself?

Some things may not be able to be recovered from, and it is important to assess the damage to find out whether that is the case with your tree.

If, however, your tree still appears to be viable, inspect it for any safety concerns and then either take action or begin the process of monitoring the tree to see how it does over the next few months.

2. Make A Decision About The Tree’s Viability

Once you’ve taken the time to assess the damage, you’ll be able to decide how likely it is that your tree is going to be able to survive whatever incident caused the stripped bark in the first place.

How likely is it that, with the proper support, your tree will be able to flourish once again? Does the problem appear to be pretty surface level or is there a deeper issue that is going to need to be addressed?

For example, the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension reminds us that a tree with less than half its branches remaining might not be able to survive another cycle of life because it will not be able to produce enough foliage to nourish it.

We know that small amounts of stripped bark don’t need as much attention, but that larger amounts may need a much more intensive solution.

So, next, we are going to go over two of the solutions to stripped bark that you may choose to utilize:

3. Clean Up Torn Bark On The Tree

If the tree has only a small amount of stripped bark or girdling, you will be able to simply clean up the torn bark. Remove any harsh edges without cutting further into the live portion of the tree.

This will ensure that these rough edges are tamed and do not have the chance to be accidentally fractured or broken by other wildlife, strong winds, or any other potential danger.

4. Perform A Bridge Graft To The Tree

When the bark of a tree is stripped beyond just a little girdling and takes up a large amount of surface area on the trunk, it is time to consider some alternative methods that may be necessary.

‘repair grafting’ and ‘bridge grafting’ are the generally the same technique, which provides a bridge over the afflicted area.

The reason this technique works well is that it does not seal the open wound but still allows for some food and nutrients to be transported around the damaged area.

This allows for the roots to receive nutrients from the tree, which then helps to sustain the healing process when the roots begin to send water and minerals back through the tissues of the tree.

Allowing for this natural cycle to continue is the best way to support your tree while it heals through its natural processes.

Essentially, this technique is done by removing some healthy branches from the area of the wound and then adding some cuts to the end of the branches and the base of the tree so that both segments can fuse and help the cyclical process of the tree restart.

We recommend that you ask an expert or do your research into the technique of bridge grafting so that no harm is caused to your tree by improperly making this graft type.

5. Fertilize And Replenish Your Tree

One of the best things that you can do after all of this is to fertilize your tree.

You’ll want to choose the best fertilizer for your tree based on an NPK value, which stands for Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. This value will be written based on the amount of each compound that the fertilizer has.

For example, 20-10-10 would work best for a plant with a higher nitrogen need and less phosphorus and potassium need. These numbers will be based on the type of tree you have.

You can find fertilizer like this Burpee Bone Meal Fertilizer which advertises what kind of plant it is for, tomatoes, peppers, and bulbs, as well as the fact that it is organic and offers a good source of phosphorus and calcium.

There are many fertilizers out there, so once you learn what your tree needs you will undoubtedly find the right choice for you.

You can read our guide to the best oak tree fertilizers and maple tree fertilizers as well.

What Not To Do If A Tree Has Stripped Bark

When you hear about stripped bark, you may be thinking about how you need to seal that open wound right away. While you’ve got the right idea, certain things will simply not help you in this situation.

Here are a few of those well-intentioned but poor resulting tactics right now:

Do NOT: Use a Sealant

While it seems like putting a sealant over an open wound might very well be exactly what your tree needs to remain safe from the dangers of the outdoors, this is not the way to go.

Putting a sealant over an open wound just works to slow the rate that the tree can go through its natural healing processes.

Though bark being stripped can be a result of human interference, it has been happening in nature long before we were around. So, trees have processes that they go through when an animal or a storm strips their bark, and adding a sealant over the damaged area will cause more harm than good.

Though wound dressings are marketed as being intended for trees, the harm outweighs the impacts. The intention of avoiding disease or decay can be avoided when the tree is allowed to go through the processes it has naturally evolved to follow.

Do NOT: Use Tree Paint, Tar, Or Cement

On a very similar note, other products that are typically branded as ‘for trees’ often fall into the same category as products that are very much not meant for trees

Aside from not always being intended to go onto living organisms, many of these types of products catalyze decay in trees by trapping moisture into an open wound.

Trees need to be able to form callouses, which is part of their natural healing process when the bark is stripped away or a wound is created. By painting on tree paint, tar, or cement, the only possible thing that is being helped is the outward aesthetic appearance of the tree.

There is no benefit here regarding the healing process because only by callousing and then forming a new layer of bark will a tree damaged in this way be able to survive and thrive once more.

Specifically, if you’re wondering about peeling bark of a tree like a paper birch, you can read our guide on why you shouldn’t peel bark of birch trees here.

Caring For A Tree With Stripped Bark In The Long Term

Those solutions are simple and reliable, but how should you care for your tree before the bark has been stripped away, or after the tree has healed from having bark stripped away?

It is important to know how to manage scenarios when they come up, but general tree maintenance is also a crucial part of keeping your tree healthy, strong, and hopefully giving it a long lifespan.

You might get lucky and never have to use the steps to save a tree with stripped bark. You also might need them more than once (which is normal and okay!).

Whichever one applies to you, we’ve got you covered with the defensive and the offensive when it comes to caring for a tree.

Here are some ways you can work to keep your tree healthy and stable in any situation.

1. Water Your Tree

Perhaps the biggest yet easiest thing you can do to support your tree is to make sure it’s getting enough water. People often make sure to water their hanging plants, flowers, and herbs around their yard but may overlook the tree in the corner.

Without proper watering, your tree will not be able to properly grow and maintain its appearance. The leaves will wilt and turn a yellow or brown color, the fruit may shrink, and the dryness may even result in radial cracks in the trunk.

So, as we talk about how to save a tree after the bark is stripped, it is worth mentioning that these general maintenance tactics will help act as preventative measures, too.

2. Trim Your Tree As Needed

Trimming your tree as needed will help ensure that your tree’s energy can go to growing bigger and remaining healthy, as opposed to filling out in areas of the plant that is already not doing too well.

Be careful when trimming bigger branches, as more is involved in the technique with those versus the low consideration of trimming away smaller branches and twigs on the exterior of the canopy.

3. Fertilize Your Trees Regularly

Okay, well, not all the time. You can, however, fertilize your tree to give it the nutrients that it needs to remain strong and healthy.

While fertilizer is not plant food, as commonly thought, it is a great medium to help your tree absorb the nutrients that it can provide.

This doesn’t need to be a step that follows damage or disease. Fertilizing from the start is a great way to keep any tree healthy!

You can read our guide on how to fertilize an oak tree here if you aren’t familiar with fertilizing trees.

That’s All For Now!

Alrighty, that’s a wrap for today folks.

For what it’s worth, this could be a more difficult problem. Though some stripped bark scenarios can turn quite life-threatening, it isn’t likely that your tree will be one to fall into that category.

Remember these 5 simple steps to take action right away when you notice stripped bark on your tree, whether it is the result of an animal, a storm, or even your neighbor’s car:

● Assess the situation: You’ll want to make sure that you have a good understanding of the nature of the damage before moving on. This applies to any scenario, really.

● Make a decision about its viability: You’ll have to decide how viable the tree seems. Is the damage surface level or is there a bigger issue that needs to be addressed? Is your tree likely to survive with the proper support?

● Clean up Torn Bark: If the bark is only slightly stripped, you’ll be able to get away with cleaning up the area of the wound and monitoring the situation as follows.

● Perform a Bridge Graft: Create a bridge over the affliction and help your tree to cycle through the processes that it naturally uses to heal.

● Fertilize and Replenish: Fertilizing your tree is a great way to ensure that nutrients are being received and that there is enough support for it to continue its journey back to full health.

Thank you for reading this article!

I hope this piece helps you keep your tree healthy while giving you the confidence to handle any situation that comes up, even stripped bark, storm damage, and girdling.

As always, good luck as you continue along your personal tree journey.

Cheers to you, friend!

References

Goren, R., Huberman, M., & Goldschmidt, E. E. (2003). Girdling: physiological and horticultural aspects. Horticultural reviews, 30, 1-36.

Van Wyk, A. S. (2017). Exploring bridge-grafting as technique te restore growth in girdled Ocotea bullata and Curtisia dentata in the Southern Cape forest area (Doctoral dissertation).

Chaney, W. R. (2015). Why Do Animals Eat the Bark and Wood of Trees and Shrubs? (Purdue University.)

By Zack DeAngelis
March 13, 2022

6 Reasons Why People Cut Down Trees (Deforestation Guide)

Deforestation is a common practice all over the world and is directly related to the need we have for wood-based resources. That’s why it can be tough to ask the question why when thinking about this practice. Something so common is easy to overlook, but have you thought about why people cut down trees?

Trees are cut down for many reasons, including building houses and furniture, opening up land for new use, and creating other wood-based resources. This process can damage environments, but the negative effects can be prevented when it is done mindfully with efforts to help restore the environment.

Below are some of the reasons people cut down trees as well as the best ways to do this in a way that ends with the least harm to the environment. We all need materials that trees provide, but using the knowledge about how to sustainably acquire it makes a big difference. Let’s get to it!

What Are The Positive And Negative Impacts Of Deforestation?

Before reading on and learning about the reasons and impacts of deforestation, we should discuss why this is such a hot topic. Context is key, and we hope to provide that in this section.

Negative: Deforestation Degrades Soil

One impact that deforestation has is that it degrades the soil in the area. How, you may ask?

When there are no longer trees to help maintain a life cycle of growth (seeds falling, animals eating them, insects in the soil below them), the soil itself has less opportunity to maintain a good, healthy, balance of nutrients.

This is a negative impact of deforestation, though other impacts are certainly more helpful than harmful.

Positive: Deforestation Opens Up Land For Agriculture

Another effect of deforestation, whether this was the original purpose or not, is that the land will is opened up for agricultural purposes.

Sometimes this is the intention that leads to deforestation, which we will discuss below, but other times it may be a result that simply happens.

Using deforested land to grow new crops can help replenish the soil and the ecosystem itself by allowing new plants to flourish. This is one way that some of the more harmful impacts of deforestation can be nullified.

Positive: Deforestation Supports Economic Growth

Many trees are cut down for materials of whatever kind. On the opposite note of the last section, an area where trees are cut down to allow for open space will still end up providing a ton of lumber that will be used in one way or another.

Making sure that those fallen trees don’t go to waste is another huge aspect of sustainability. It’s all about creating a balance between the give and take that occurs when trees are removed and land is opened up to new possibilities.

There is certainly economic value in being able to grow new crops, raise livestock, build houses, and/or harvest a bunch of lumber to create more materials.

So, deforestation does positively impact the economy, which can help support people, jobs, and lifestyles.

Negative: Deforestation Destroys Natural Environments

A negative that follows, even if the land is repurposed, is that deforestation destroys the natural environment that once stood in place of this newly barren landscape.

Again, ecosystems in nature are delicate and the loss of one factor can lead to the downfall of others.

Positive: Deforestation Creates Materials

A positive that can come, mostly when locals are not being directly impacted, is the rise in resources that cut-down trees provide.

So much of what we use comes from trees, and wood is a necessity whether or not we think of it as such.

So, the creation of materials that deforestation provides is ultimately positive, though the practice of refurbishing and reusing pre-owned materials like tables, cabinets, and chairs could certainly be utilized more in our modern world.

Negative: Deforestation Can Impact The Lifestyle Of People In The Region

To return to the subject of environmental alteration and struggle, deforestation affects more than just the plants and soil in an area.

Where trees are removed, animals and insects will either leave or have to adapt, and sometimes communities feel the impact of these shifts. Especially communities that are smaller and less modern.

For example, native people that live in or near rainforests and jungles tend to struggle when their home environment is quickly and severely altered by deforestation.

6 Reasons Why People Cut Down Trees

Okay, we are finally at the part you’ve been waiting for! Now we can discuss the reasons that lead people, or companies, to cut down trees.

This can apply to everyone from an individual hoping to make a wooden rocking chair to a big corporation needing wood to incorporate into their new buildings.

Perhaps there is a need for more land in which agricultural practices can be performed.

Maybe, the reason for cutting trees down is to make space for more people that are looking for a new place to live.

We’ll go through all of these different reasons, and explain where deforestation comes in.

Without further adieu, the reasons people cut down trees!

1. Trees Are Used To Build Furniture

Let’s start on a relatively small scale.

Think about your house- what in it is made of wood? Where might that wood be sourced from?

Everything from your kitchen table to a bedframe or even the shoe rack by the door has the potential to be made from wood that was chopped down for exactly that purpose.

While your side table might not use as much wood as the shoe rack in the other room, the cabinets on the wall, or your kitchen dining set, the amount of wood that you probably have in your home combines to be a large amount.

Wood products are everywhere and that wood needs to come from somewhere.

Oftentimes, companies will cut down a large section of trees to be able to produce wood that is good quality and fit to create furniture, decor and other functional pieces for people to use in their everyday lives.

2. Trees Are Used In Floors And Trim

A shiny, polished hardwood floor in a new home

Okay, let’s expand a bit. Not only are things in a home made from wood, but there are aspects of the home itself that are wood.

Your flooring, unless you’re a carpet person, is made of wood. The trim around your doors, the baseboards that protect the bottom of your walls, and possibly even your walls themselves are made of wood.

There is so much that goes into a living space and so much of that is made from wood. Trees are an essential part of building the things that we use in our daily lives, even those we don’t consciously focus on unless we’re redecorating or relocating.

3. Trees Are Used In The Structure Of Homes And Buildings

Thought we were done expanding? Think again.

Not only are pieces of furniture and parts of the interior of a building made from wood, but sometimes buildings themselves are made of wood.

Even if a building is made mostly of other materials, wood is almost always a component. Take the space between the drywall and the steel of a high-rise, for example. Even though the building itself is made from metal, the beams in the walls are quite likely to be made of wood. It’s the same for ceilings and floors, though the walls are the biggest structural piece of the puzzle in this case.

We don’t have to be talking about skyscrapers or ultra-modern homes, though. Think of your favorite coffee shop on the corner, the restaurant with the cool building design, or the craft shop that you used to pass on the way to work.

All of these buildings fall structurally somewhere in between a modest family home and a giant fancy office building, but they have one thing in common; they all use wood one way or another to achieve their building design, room layout, or aesthetic appearance. Maybe it’s even all three!

4. Trees Are Cut Down To Make Room For Agricultural Spaces

Let’s switch gears now.

Sometimes trees are cut down for reasons as simple as needing space. Farmers may need to start growing more food, so they’ll cut down trees to be able to plant more crops.

Perhaps, they will use the space for animals to graze while they are raised for food, milk, or simply used to help with the land.

This is a situation where deforestation might not have as harsh of an impact. The land is being repurposed for the good of the people, as opposed to being stripped clean without the replenishing of resources.

5. Trees Are Used For The Purpose Of Creating Space

On the flip side, trees are sometimes cut down just to create more space for people to build houses, businesses, or other things that are driven by corporations focused on economic benefits.

In these situations, nature tends to be ignored or, at the very least, brushed to the side.

The University of California San Diego notes how deforestation can drive disease and climate change through the industry’s overall lack of awareness for nature and the delicate balance that it sits on.

Deforestation has lessened in the last few decades, but the rate at which we are losing forests and jungles is still quite alarming.

On that note, let’s talk about another product that uses up lots of trees: paper.

6. Trees Are Used To Make Paper

Paper is something nearly all of us use in our everyday lives, regardless of where we come from or what we do. The digital age may be creeping in, but the paper isn’t going anywhere just yet.

Do you currently use a journal? Maybe it’s a notebook for school?

Ever read a book that’s not online? Used a dictionary the ‘old fashioned way’?

If you’re thinking that the answer is no, all these things are on the internet, then let’s ask this:

Have you ever ordered takeout, been handed a flyer, taken a receipt from the grocery store, or given a birthday card?

Odds are, you use way more paper in your life than you realize.

Most paper is made from wood pulp, through a simple process that began in China thousands of years ago.

Essentially, the raw wood is turned into pulp which is then dried and pressed until it comes into its final form.

If you’re interested in learning even more about this process, check out our piece on How Many Trees Are Cut Down to Make One Piece of Paper.

For now, we’ll just tell you that most paper is made from softwood trees and, after going through the process of turning that wood into pulp by way of chemicals or mechanics, you can get paper in no time. If you wait for it all to air dry and then be pressed dry, of course.

While there are beginning to be many alternatives to wood-based paper, that process is nowhere near complete.

Middle Georgia State University notes that an average American family wastes up to 13,000 separate pieces of paper per year. Now, when we think about all the trees that are cut down for those pieces of paper to exist, it might seem pretty crazy.

The thing is, it’s hard to realize how big of an impact each individual has on the environment. When a stack of paper is tossed into the trash instead of recycled, our minds just don’t have the time to ponder what that action might look like after another 5, 10, 100, 1,000, or more people do the same thing.

Now, before this turns into a guilt trip, that isn’t your fault. Paper products are what we have to use, typically, and recycling might not always be available to you. The point we want to make here is that there are so many times that trees are cut down to make a product that doesn’t last or gets disposed of in a way that creates issues.

So, Is Deforestation Good Or Bad?

As you can probably gather from the effects listed above, deforestation is a complex topic that can be beneficial when done correctly but harmful when done without the intention to rebuild deforested areas.

This rebuilding does not have to mean replanting new trees, though it certainly could. Deforested land must be used and maintained in a way that supports life in the area.

Deforestation is something that is typically perceived as negative, because of the impacts that it has environmentally. The positive reasons have more to do with human-focused topics like economics, materials, and food.

It is important to be aware that, though trees can be replanted and areas can be turned into agricultural ones as opposed to their original ecosystems, there is harm that comes from deforestation.

By cutting down trees that have potentially been around for centuries, the complex balance of nature is heavily impacted. Animals will likely relocate and with that, insects and other critters can help with everything from spreading the seeds for new trees to the pollination of smaller, yet important, plants.

There is quite a delicate balance between plants, animals, local people, and the way that resources are used.

Often, when the focus shifts from protecting plants and wildlife, even if it helps people in other ways, the overall result is more bad than good.

On the other hand, if local people need the space to be used for something that supports an increased population, the results may be different.

It just depends on who is taking what resources and using them for what reason. If that feels confusing, try to stick with us while we spell it out a bit.

So, that being said, are there ways to combat the waste of wood products and/or the negative impacts of deforestation?

How Can We Help To Reduce The Negative Impacts Of Deforestation?

While we see that deforestation is not likely to go away anytime soon and can have good outcomes, it’s worth discussing the ways that we can each help to mitigate some of the bad that does stem from this practice.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you want to do some good and help the planet keep producing the beautiful trees that we all know and love:

Plant New Trees, Or Support Companies That Do

So many of our articles are about helping you to care for the trees on your property, or even to plant new ones. That is because we LOVE trees and know how valuable they can be.

Not only is planting new trees great for the environment, but you’ll get personal satisfaction from watching something that you plant grow into a mature being. Kind of like a kid, but you know…not.

Additionally, there are a lot of companies these days that will plant a tree for every x amount of product that you buy, to help offset the materials that they use to make whatever said product may be.

We’ll leave the research to you on that one, based on what you buy and where you shop, but it’s a great concept that you can easily keep an eye out for!

Use Less Paper Or Alternative Paper

Using less paper is becoming easier in this digital age, but it is often still a decision that must be consciously made.

If you just cannot imagine giving up that feeling of putting pen to paper, we have a thought: Use a type of paper that isn’t made of wood. There are plenty out there, and it can be quite fun to explore the different looks, feels, and textures of these alternative papers!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

A classic for a reason, reduce the waste you create, reuse what you can, and recycle that which you cannot.

This is a practice you’ve probably been doing since you were a kid, but maybe one that has become more important as an adult. It’s easy enough to do and oh SO worth the extra steps.

You can feel good while not doing that much extra work. It’s a win if you ask us!

That’s All For Now, Folks!

Alright, that’s what we have for you this time. Deforestation is quite a complex topic, and we hope this helps you feel like you’ve begun to scratch the surface of all that it entails.

Thank you for taking the time to read this piece, and sticking with us as we work to help you help your trees.

May you continue to be successful in your tree journey, and remember that we are always here to help!

Until next time, friends.

References

Allen, J. C., & Barnes, D. F. (1985). The causes of deforestation in developing countries. Annals of the association of American Geographers, 75(2), 163-184.

Puyravaud, J. P. (2003). Standardizing the calculation of the annual rate of deforestation. Forest ecology and management, 177(1-3), 593-596.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 13, 2022

Elm Trees | Oak Trees | Trees

3 Elm Vs. Oak Differences And Which Tree Is Harder

Oak and elm trees are both picturesque and can be found in landscapes all across the United States. If you’re choosing between an oak and an elm tree for landscaping or building material, it is important to know their distinctions so you can pick between the everlasting elm vs. oak differences.

Elm trees grow taller, but oak trees are wider than elm trees. Elms have non-invasive root systems and are more tolerant than oaks against poor quality soils. Oak trees are harder and more durable than elm trees, making oaks a more popular for construction like flooring and cabinetry.

You may automatically think that you should choose oak because it’s harder and more durable, but that’s not always the case! By the time you’ve finished this blog post, you’ll know the key differences between oaks and elms as well as which type of wood to choose when building a specific item. Let’s jump in!

Is Oak Or Elm Wood Harder?

In terms of hardness, oak trees have harder wood than elm trees, especially red oaks. It’s not as hard as hickory or American walnut, but it is considered one of the strongest in the North American market.

Since oak is also more durable than elm, it is often chosen over elm for projects. However, because it’s harder, oak wood is prone to cracking and splintering when cut into. It also needs care and maintenance to keep it from shrinking and cracking once it’s been turned into furniture or flooring.

As for elms, the wood tends getting out of shape easily and is more vulnerable to insect attacks than oak. It’s still a durable and hard wood, but these cons make it slightly less valuable than oak wood and ultimately a less popular choice.

What Determines Wood Hardness?

Oregon State University explains that trees’ wood is made up of cellulose that is bound together by lignin, and its hardness is determined by how dense that is. The wood’s cells are shaped like whiskers and the way they lay determines whether or not it’s hardwood or softwood.

Hardwoods have more hollow whisker cells, and oak trees in particular have resin in the hardwood that fills the cells and makes them even harder.

The Janka scale is the official test for the hardness and stability of wood. This is done by measuring how much force it takes to push a .444-inch steel ball .222 inches into the wood, which is measured by pounds force.

The red oak tree has a score of 1290, which means it is particularly hard. It’s even used as the standard that other wood types are tested against. Elm trees have a hardness rating of 830, which means it’s considered “soft hardwood”.

3 Differences Between Oaks And Elms

Now, onto the good stuff. Here are 3 differences between elm and oak trees to watch out for.

1. Elm Trees Are Taller Than Oak Trees

Both of these trees grow in different sizes and shapes. You can expect an elm tree to grow to about 60 to 80 feet and an oak tree to be about 60 to 100 feet tall.

2. Oak Trees Are Wider Than Elm Trees

As far as the wideness of the canopy, oak trees reach out further than elms to a shocking 100 feet wide. More often than not, oaks are wider than they are tall.

Elms, on the other hand, can stretch to about 60 feet wide. As with any living thing, the size dimensions are only averages and can of course have exceptions with especially old and healthy trees.

3. Oak Trees Are More Expensive Than Elm Trees

Sometimes cost is a factor if you’re purchasing a live oak or elm to put in your yard. Tall oak tree seedlings cost up to $35 and elm seedlings cost a little less at around $20.

Oaks range in price from $200 to $400 for a 10-foot tree. You can expect to pay less for an elm at about $120 for a tree between 6 and 7 feet. Matured trees above a certain height will cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars.

White oaks are the most valuable tree you can have out of the two species and because of that cost more, especially when they are mature.

Elm And Oak Tree Shared Qualities

Elm and Oak tress have a lot of similarities and differences, but are ultimately low-maintenance trees and common choices for a lot of homeowners and builders. One of the similarities between oaks and elms is their lifespan. Oaks can live up to 150 to 400 years, while elms live around 150 to 300 years.

Oaks and elms also require virtually the same care. Both trees enjoy full sun and moist, well-draining soil. Elm trees can handle partial shade but do very well with a lot of sun. Experts recommend fertilizing each tree once or twice a year. As far as pruning, they both do well with a trim once every 3 years.

As for prices, the two types of wood these trees produce cost about the same per board. Typically, elm costs about $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot, and oak costs slightly more, around $4.50 to $10.50 per square foot. Although they have their special uses, both of these woods are used for making furniture and flooring.

The Elm Tree

You will recognize the umbrella-shaped elm tree by its light to dark green leaves that are oval-shaped with a pointy tip and small saw-toothed edges. When they turn yellow in the fall, they showcase the full beauty that makes them great additions to yards and city streets across the United States.

Elm trees have the kind of bark that you’d picture if I told you to imagine a basic tree. It’s dark brownish-gray, has deep ridges, and looks kind of scaly. It’s also super useful, which I’ll talk about later on!

Although they’re not as popular as oaks, elm trees are great choices for yards because they provide a lot of shade and are generally very easy to take care of. Elm trees were very popular in urban areas until Dutch Elm Disease wiped a lot of them out. The ones that are still used in these areas were chosen because they give excellent shade for roads. Sometimes their canopies connect and provide an even bigger area of shade.

Despite many of them being wiped out by Dutch Elm Disease, scientists have created hybrid species that are resistant to it, so they’ve been making a comeback! We’re rooting for you Elms!

The Mighty Oak Tree

Oaks are known for their strength and elegant height; they’re even referred to as trees’ king of kings! An oak tree is easily recognized by its unique leaves, also called broadleaves, that are flat with multiple rounded lobes as the edges. They are green in color but turn red or brown in the fall.

As oak trees age, their bark changes from silvery brown to light gray or very dark brown. The bark has deep ridges all over its surface. Like the elm, the oak trees’ bark is very useful.

Because of how beautiful and stately they are, oak trees are used as landscaping trees all over American yards. They are rich in foliage and have wide canopies that can stretch to other nearby trees. And besides giving plenty of shade, oak trees are hardy and can handle all sorts of weather changes.

That’s All You Need to Know!

Now that you’re informed, you’ll know exactly which tree you want to use either as a landscaping addition or as timber.

To recap—oaks are harder, more durable, and grow bigger than elm trees. However, elms are hardier in rougher soils and are less likely to cause major root problems to structures as oaks do.

As for similarities, both trees require the same care and are used to add beauty and shade to yards. Both of the trees’ wood cost pretty much the same although oak tends to be slightly more expensive. And lastly, you’ll see both of these trees used for flooring and furniture.

All in all, you really can’t go wrong with either of these trees. It all depends on you! Whether you’re shading a corner of the yard or building a desk, the oak and the elm will both provide pleasant results.

References

Scheffer, T. C., & Morrell, J. J. (1998). Natural durability of wood: A worldwide checklist of species.

Vörös, Á., & Németh, R. (2020, July). The history of wood hardness tests. In IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science (Vol. 505, No. 1, p. 012020). IOP Publishing.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 10, 2022

Oak Trees | Trees

10 Different Ways To Get Rid Of Your Oak Tree (Removal Tips)

Unfortunately, trees can become severely damaged or sick and require removal. Sometimes you have to get rid of your tree, as sad as that may be. Thankfully, there are many methods you can use if you need to remove an oak tree.

When you have to get rid of an oak tree, your best bet is to cut it down. You can also get rid of your oak tree by using:

Rock Salt
Vinegar
Girdling
Copper Nails
Herbicides

When your oak tree gets damaged beyond repair, do not fret about what to do! I’ve got you covered with a list of the top five methods to get rid of oak trees. Let’s dive in.

Using Natural Methods To Get Rid Of Your Oak Tree

Now, if you’re like me you probably like using chemicals as little as possible and prefer natural methods. After all, your oak tree has had a great lifespan and probably done some good for you over the years.

Thankfully, you can definitely use at home herbicides to get rid of your oak tree. They may not be as effective as man-made chemical solutions, but they still get the job done if used liberally.

1. Rock Salt

Salt is a natural way to get rid of an oak tree because it absorbs the moisture from the ground your tree would usually use and it prevents potassium and magnesium from entering the oak tree. You can use Epsom or rock salt.

Keep in mind that salt will stay in your soil until enough water has leached it out. This process can take years if the only water comes from rain. You can speed up the soil’s regeneration by soaking the soil every day with water.

Oak trees can also pull it up into their roots and reach toxic levels, as well as speed up the process of a stump’s decay. However, it takes longer for an oak to be get rid ofed by salt than it does by chemical herbicides.

Side note, if roots have overtaken your pipes, you can pour a little dissolved rock salt down drains to get rid of them.

Smaller oaks will die much quicker and with a lot less salt than larger trees. Therefore, I recommend only using this method to get rid of small oak trees, but you can still use it for larger oaks.

For smaller oaks, pour a solution of 2 cups water to 1 cup salt around the area liberally. Keep in mind this will get rid of off any grass or vegetation next to the tree.

For larger oaks, drill holes into exposed roots and cover with the salt mixture. Pour the salt mixture over the area as well.

After salting the area around the tree, put some mulch over the soil and water it deeply every few days. Exposed roots should have at least 6 inches of mulch above it. This will speed up the process of get rid ofing your oak.

2. Vinegar

You can also use vinegar to get rid of your oak tree. Spraying undiluted white vinegar on the leaves of the oak will prevent them from photosynthesizing and eventually get rid of them. Get rid ofing the leaves is not enough to get rid of the whole tree, but it speeds up the process.

Vinegar works because it alters the pH level of the soil, which makes it unsuitable for oak trees. It is a contact herbicide that will get rid of any plant that it saturates.

To destroy the oak tree’s roots, drill holes into them and pour the vinegar into the holes. You can also soak the area where roots are exposed.

It will require a lot to get rid of a large tree, but you can do it.

Remember to mulch your tree after treating it with salt or vinegar so the roots do not get enough air, get rid ofing the oak tree quicker.

You can read more about using vinegar to get rid of tree roots here.

3. Girdling Or Ring Barking Gets Rid Of Oak Trees

Girdling has long been the traditional way of felling a tree without actually cutting it down. It is very effective, low-cost, and much less work than felling the tree with a chainsaw.

To girdle your oak tree, cut a ring around the trunk of the tree down to the cambium layer. This keeps the conducting cells from producing branches and leaves above the cut. It is important to cut the ring below any branches so you can get rid of every piece of the tree.

You can do this using a chainsaw, scorp, axe, chisel, flat pry-bar, or a special girdling tool with a knife on the end of it to strip a tree down to the cambium layer in a single rotation. A scorp is a wood-carving tool you can use to cut into the tree as well.

A girdling tool like the Zenport GK03 Girdling Knife is a perfect example of the proper tool. It has a stainless steel blade for ease of use and a polished wooden handle for comfort.

When using a chainsaw, make two cuts into the tree about three inches across from each other and then peel off the layers with a chisel or other similar tool.

You can do the same thing with an axe. Make two cuts several inches apart from each other, and then swing the axe in downward strokes to shed the layers off the tree.

The best time of the year to girdle your oak tree is in the spring and summer. This is because the tree is most vulnerable after they have used their springtime growing energy up.

It will take a couple of years for girdling to get rid of the tree, but you can speed up the process by applying herbicide to the wound you created in the tree.

This option is best for trees in the woods of your yard and far away from any structures or clearings. You do not want a ticking time bomb on your hands waiting for the tree to fall if it is too close to your house.

4. Copper Nails Can Rid You Of Your Oak Tree

Another easy way to get rid of an oak tree is to use copper nails. If you just nail one into the tree, it will not get rid of it unless it is a sapling. When you overwhelm a larger tree with multiple nails, then you will see results.

When copper oxidizes, it becomes toxic for trees and makes sure the growing process of your tree stops and then destroys growth cells. Start by nailing copper nails in a ring around the lower part of the trunk. They should be half an inch apart.

Point the nails downward when you nail them in. The deeper the copper is into the trunk, the faster your tree will die.

When your oak tree dies, make sure to remove the copper nails.

5. Cut Your Oak Tree Down

A lot of trees, including oak trees, do not grow back after they are cut down to a stump. Their root systems do not regenerate after such a blow!

If you decide to cut it down, wear the proper safety gear, including safety glasses, gloves, helmet, Kevlar chaps, face shield, and earmuffs. These things will make your felling process much safer.

Many recommend using a felling wedge to begin the felling of the oak tree, which keeps your chainsaw from being pinched. You can place it in a tree by cutting a notch pointing toward the direction you want your tree to fall.

If you need a felling wedge, take a look at the Oregon 23565 Felling Wedge which comes highly regarded.

Begin the cut until it will fit the wedge, then insert it. Cut another notch 4-6 inches away from the first notch and hammer in another wedge.

Alternate between felling the tree with your chainsaw and pounding in wedges. Sometimes you should use more than one wedge on top of the other to make it thick enough to be inserted into the tree.

Continue this process until your tree has fallen. Success! At this point, you will have just the stump of the tree. The oak will eventually die.

Because this process is time-consuming and potentially dangerous, I highly suggest contacting a professional to cut down your tree for you.

Using Herbicides To Get Rid Of Your Oak Tree

There are several herbicides you can use to jumpstart the dying process of your oak tree. We will look at six different ways you can apply herbicides to your tree and our most recommended product soon.

Herbicides use chemicals like dicamba, imazapyr, picloram, glyphosphate, and triclopyr to get rid of trees (and other foliage). Always use proper safety equipment when handling them and read all product information.

The most popular type of herbicide professionals use for get rid ofing a tree is Tordon. The active ingredient in Tordon is picloram, and it is non-toxic to humans and animals like honeybees, mammals, and birds.

The Dow AgroSciences RTU548 Tordon RTU Herbicide is a highly regarded choice for personal use. It includes a blue dye to make use easier to visualize and control. It is also a no-freeze formula, so you can use it any time of year.

Keep in mind these chemicals are damaging to the surrounding area, so the application must be very precise. Make sure there are no water sources nearby because rain runoff could contaminate them. Check the area around you and make yourself aware of your state’s regulations for using herbicides.

We recommend using a professional tree company to apply herbicide and help you with the process of get rid ofing your oak tree because they will do the most effective job!

Ways To Apply Herbicide To Get Rid Of Oak Trees

Now, the tordon method above is used in different fashions and in some cases, used on the actual wood of the tree underneath the exposed bark. This is essentially the skin of the tree. For other herbicides, they can generally applied in the different methods we’ll describe below.

It’s important to note that no matter what we say here, you should ALWAYS follow whatever herbicide product you have and their directions for use.

By the way, if you’d like more justification for why you should remove your oak tree, take a look at our guide on how oak trees cause damage here.

1. Soil Application

When you apply herbicide to the soil, your tree will begin to die. This happens when the chemicals get absorbed into the tree’s roots and end up within the tree itself. This will get rid of your tree quickly.

Remember to water your tree thoroughly when you apply herbicide to the soil because it speeds up the process. Otherwise, you will have to wait until it rains for the roots to drink up the herbicide.

If you decide to use this method, make sure there are few or no trees around your oak. Roots will intertwine if close enough, so damaging the roots of the oak will ultimately damage the roots of any trees near it.

2. Foliar Application

With this method, spray the herbicide onto the leaves of your tree. This method is more effective on smaller trees, which is something to keep in mind when deciding what herbicide application method is best for get rid ofing your oak.

Foliar application will work best for speeding up the process of dying instead of get rid ofing the tree from the inside, which works much faster.

If you are using this application, you may need equipment to reach the tallest leaves of your tree. This method is easier if you are using a sprayer backpack. Therefore, we suggest contacting a professional to apply herbicide to your tree, especially when using foliar application.

You will get the best results if you use certain chemicals at certain times of the year. For auxin-type herbicide, apply it during the spring when leaves first appear. Enzyme-inhibiting and popular herbicides like Roundup are best used in late summer or fall, right before the leaves change colors.

3. Basal Bark

Basal bark application is generally used with a low-pressure backpack sprayer aimed at the lower 12-15 inches of the tree stem.

Wet the stem completely, or else it will not be as effective. You should also spray any root collars or exposed roots. Finally, soak the bark, beginning at the bottom and going up one foot.

The best time to apply the herbicide is when the trees are dormant and there are no leaves, as it will make it much easier for you to spray the stems and bark directly. Applying it to leaves is not very effective, so avoid it to save more product.

4. Tree Injection

You can inject herbicide into the oak tree to make the process go much faster than the foliar method. It applies the chemical directly into the tree’s living tissue, in either liquid or pellet form. Tree injectors are 4–5-foot tubes with a pump and a 1.5 to 2-inch knife on the other end.

Liquid injectors are applied by cutting a slit into the tree and pumping it into the slit. However, pellet injectors are shoved into the tree by a head on the tube.

Avoid using tree injectors during spring because this is when there is a heavy amount of sap flowing upwards in the tree. The sap will slow down the herbicide’s absorption.

How Do I Get Rid Of An Oak Tree Stump?

There are multiple methods to get rid of or speed up the decaying process of oak tree stumps that range from using chemicals to stump grinders. Let’s look at them below!

1. Use Chemicals

The best way is to use chemicals, like the VPG Fertilome Stump Killer. This is a simple process, and it only takes a few steps. Drill multiple holes in the stump and then pour the liquid into the holes.

You should pour the chemical into every hole and along the sides of the stump. After this, seal the stump with a tarp to lock in moisture. This will speed up the decaying power of the get rid ofing solution.

2. Burn It

Another way to get rid of the stump is to burn it! Place firewood on top of the stump and light it. Keep close watch over the fire as it burns the stump. Break up any remaining pieces or roots that are exposed.

It may help to drill 6-8 holes into the stump and pour some diesel fuel into the stump to speed up the process and make sure that the stump catches fire.

3. Hire A Professional

You can also hire an arborist to grind down the stump for you. They will use one of two methods: stump grinding or stump removal. You can do these methods yourself, but they are very hard and time-consuming, so leave it to the experts.

When they grind down the stump, they use a rotating blade that rips into the tree stump and cuts it up into little pieces, which is the fastest way to remove it. One downside of this method is it does not provide a very good growing area.

After they have ground it down, it does not leave a lot of room for soil. However, the stump will be completely removed.

Stump removal is a very hard process that requires you to pull out the entire stump and remove the roots. It is extremely time-consuming, but it comes with an upside. Once the tree is gone, you have free space to do whatever you want with the area.

A professional can also help you decide on what to do with the rest of your fallen oak tree.

How Do I Know If My Oak Tree Is Dying?

If one of the methods discussed above works for you and the tree is dying, you can tell by the following symptoms your oak tree will exhibit:

If you use a method other than herbicides, salt, or vinegar, then you will see fungi around the base of your tree, indicating decay.
Bark has begun to shed off of the tree and sap has oozed out of it. This is a sure sign that your oak is dying.
Dieback has occurred. This is when the upper branches of the tree have died off and are now sticking above the crown of the tree. It’s a definite sign that the root system is in trouble.
The branches easily fall off and have begun to scatter on the ground in great numbers.
Leaves have turned brown out of season and fall off. Very few of them are healthy.
The cambium layer is now brown instead of green. You can check this by removing a small strip of bark to reveal the cambium layer.

If one or more of these things happens, you succeeded! Your next step is getting rid of the stump if you cut down your oak tree. If you are using another method, you can expect your tree to die in one year or more.

You can also read our guide that goes more in-depth on what’s wrong with your oak tree here.

That’s All We’ve Got!

If you are thinking about planting an oak in your yard, head on over to our article Should You Plant An Oak Tree in Your Backyard? Pros & Cons to figure out if it is the best choice for your property!

I hope this article has helped you learn more about the various methods of get rid ofing an oak tree and which one of them works best for you.

Even though there are many ways to get rid of an oak on your own, I highly suggest contacting a professional arborist. They will consult with you about the ways you should get rid of your oak tree without the risk of damaging plants surrounding the tree or structures nearby the tree’s felling zone.

That’s all for now!

References

De Schepper, Veerle, et al. “Detailed analysis of double girdling effects on stem diameter variations and sap flow in young oak trees.” Environmental and Experimental Botany 68.2 (2010): 149-156.

Feucht, James R. “Herbicide injuries to trees-symptoms and solutions.” Journal of Arboriculture 14.9 (1988): 215-219.

Szczepkowski, Andrzej, and Danuta Nicewicz. “The content of heavy metals in the wood of healthy and dying oak trees (Quercus robur L., Q. petraea (Matt.) Liebl.).” Acta Sci. Pol. Silv., Colendar. Rat. Ind. Lignar 7.4 (2008): 55-65.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 9, 2022

Trees

What You Should Do If You Have Vines On Your Oak Tree

You may enjoy the appearance of a vine wrapping itself around a tree, but you should also consider the impact that this type of organism can have on a tree itself. If you are looking for some tactics to try if you notice vines growing on your oak tree, this is the place to be!

The truth is that vines do not necessarily have a detrimental effect on oak trees, but they need to be managed so that their growth does not overtake the tree. Most often, ivy is the vine that grows on oak trees. Ivy should be removed if it is suffocating the oak tree and taking away nutrients.

Before we continue talking about the types of vines that grow on oak trees, their severity, and solutions, we should talk about the overall impact that vines can have on oak trees. So, let’s dive in!

What Impact Do Vines Have On Oak Trees?

Here is why it is so important to know what steps you should be taking if you have vines on your oak tree.

Vines look pretty on trees and that is something that most people would say when asked about their feelings toward this part of the plant family.

Dark green vines do add a pop of color and a nice visual touch when placed upon the brown bark of a tree that might otherwise have a trunk that is pretty plain.

However, the impact that vines themselves have on trees goes far beyond their aesthetic appearance.

Vines Use Oak Trees For Their Personal Benefit

Here are some of the common impacts that you will become aware of if you find that your oak tree in fact has some vines on it.

Vines can be a parasitic organism in the way that they exploit other plants for their personal benefit, and do not benefit their host in any way.

Though this is not true of all vines, it is a common issue that people face when looking at their trees and the vines that end up growing on them.

When it comes down to it, vines do not need to put any of their energy into growing to maturity and staying alive in the way that other plants do. They are able to use most parts of the tree, or their host, to benefit their growth. Nothing from the root system to the canopy, or the trunk and lower branches in between, is safe from the impact of a vine.

Vines Can Suffocate Oak Trees

Additionally, vines can also actively suffocate or strangle the tree that they are living on.

This can keep the tree from performing some of the routine functions that help it survive, because of different access points from the roots to the canopy being restricted from the grip of the vines.

While some vines are not nearly as aggressive, or malicious, like others it is important to understand that trees themselves also have varying levels of susceptibility to the impact of these vines. Some trees may be able to withstand a level of this suffocation, but many will quickly succumb.

I mean, imagine this: you’re a tree that is growing and not quite to maturity. You’d be getting larger but not quite fully developed by this stage. It’s hard enough going through the process of growing and learning to thrive. Then, boom! A vine starts to work its way around your trunk, through the branches, and as far down as your roots and high up as the tip-top of your canopy.

There’s a good chance that it will be too difficult for a tree to continue on at this stage, understandably enough.

There are also some repercussions of the selfish nature of vines and the way that they grow by wrapping themselves around a host. Not only does this create some difficulty for the tree on the outside, but it also affects the resources the tree is able to procure internally. Resources that are vital to maintaining the tree’s life force.

Vines Take Resources From Oak Trees

On top of the non-symbiotic nature of many vines and the fact that they tend to suffocate their host, vines tend to take valuable, even crucial, resources from the trees that host them.

For example, when a tree is being suffocated by vines, its access to valuable nutrients and resources like water and nitrogen can be severely restricted.

The tree will end up dying slowly, caused by starvation, and water loss, as a direct result of the vine.

Ultimately, since this can lead to a significantly shorter oak tree lifespan in the long run.

Vines Lead To Increased Susceptibility For Future Damage In Oak Trees

When you have vines on your tree, even if the above issues do not directly come up, you might face indirect consequences that can spiral into much deeper problems.

Having vines wrapped around the base of your tree can lead to prolonged moisture on the tree itself. Prolonged moisture on the bark of the tree can lead to things like disease, decay, rodent damage, and insect damage.

When a tree is weakened in this way, the susceptibility to further damages can turn out to be worse than the strangulation of a vine with moderate growth. In fact, even vines that are aggressive might not be the cause of death in a tree. It could very well be a combination of stripped resources, suffocation, and another issue like bark decay, or insect infestation.

This only affects your tree, right? There wouldn’t necessarily be a huge impact on anything else in the area as long as the vine isn’t directly touching it, would there?

The University of Florida IFAS Extension notes that invasive vines actually have an impact on forests and other environments as a whole. This is because when trees become more susceptible to disease, pathogens, rodents, and other damage that could permanently scar the tree – animals may lose their home, food source, and other resources.

It is important to remember that your oak tree itself is not the only organism at stake. The critters on and around the tree, as well as neighboring plants, can be hugely affected as well. All life in an ecosystem works together in one way or another, and your tree is no exception.

So, while you might not be immediately seeing the drastic, hugely detrimental effects vines can have like strangulation and other issues, there are potentially worse side effects that might come out of leaving the vines on your tree.

We will leave it at that, but it is safe to say that prevention is the way to go when dealing with these plants.

If you want to learn more about oak trees, check out our article Red Oak vs. White Oak Tree Growth Rate & Key Differences!

What Types Of Vines Are Likely To Grow On Oak Trees?

Okay, here it is. The first thing that we are going to get into will give a good foundation for your understanding of why vines have such an impact on oak trees.

Of course, as we mentioned before, not all vines will cause issues to your tree.

There are many types of vines, but there are a few that you can count on more than the rest to live on oak trees.

Here are the vines that you are most likely to be dealing with when it comes to your oak.

A quick note, it’s while it’s not a vine, Spanish moss and ball moss are typically found on oak trees and can cause very similar issues to ivy in large numbers. If you’re not sure if you have ivy or moss, you can learn about Identifying moss on your oak tree here.

1. Ivy

Common Ivy (English Ivy)

Ivy, in all of its many forms, is the most common vine to grow on oak trees.

Luckily, ivy does not harm the vascular system of a tree. Rather, it attaches to bark by using a combination of small rootlike tendrils along with a sticky plant substance to keep Itself connected to the tree.

The Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation explains how English ivy is actually an exotic, invasive species that is commonly used in gardens and landscaping projects, but which also needs maintenance and monitoring.

While ivy isn’t the most aggressive vine by any means, there is a good chance that it is contributing to your tree experiencing a lack of nutrition thanks to the fact that the two will typically rely on the same source of nutrients and water.

Ivy also can grow all the way up into your tree’s canopy, which means that it can also block the light from reaching the tree itself.

Identifying Different Kinds Of Ivy

It should be noted that different kinds of ivy can vary drastically. For example, poison ivy on your tree is going to be quite a different situation than English ivy or Japanese ivy.

So, how do you differentiate between the types of ivy? What should you be looking out for when determining if the vine on your oak is ivy at all?

The leaf is going to be a good indication of what type of vine you are dealing with. Ivy leaves vary in roundness and color, but English ivy tends to have about 3-5 lobes when young, with the middle lobe sticking out above the ones on the sides of the leaf.

At maturity, the leaves tend to be dark green and round out a bit more, while maintaining a roughly similar shape with a peak in the middle of the leaf where that top lobe was during the maturing process.

Poison ivy growing on base of oak tree trunk

Poison ivy, on the other hand, has three lobes per leaf and leaves are clustered in threes. It also has pointy leaves and generally, a hairy rope-like vine that spans the tree. On top of that, the poison ivy will look much waxier than English ivy and other varieties due to the oil on its leaves.

Different ivy leaves will also have a slightly different appearance, but we want to focus on English and poison ivy for now as they are the most common types of ivy that you will see on your oak tree.

2. Honeysuckle

When you look up honeysuckle on an oak tree, you’ll mostly see results for the variety of oak named ‘honeysuckle oak’ but don’t let that confuse you. Honeysuckle is also an invasive species that can grow on your oak tree and is more than just a name of a type of oak tree.

This might not be a plant that you would have considered negative in any way. After all, who doesn’t appreciate the smell of honeysuckle in the summer? However, this vine will take over your yard and your trees if not carefully controlled.

With the requirement of constant pruning and its nature as a tenacious and rapid climber, honeysuckle is another one that should be avoided near your oak, when possible.

What Steps Should You Be Taking If You Have Vines On Your Oak Tree?

1. Assess What Kind Of Vine Is On Your Oak

One of the first steps to take, other than noticing that you have vines on your oak tree, is to determine what kind of vines they are. This way you will be better prepared to deal with them in the appropriate manner.

Whether you have English ivy, poison ivy, honeysuckle, or a different vine that is less commonly found on oaks, you will want to take some sort of action.

You can refer to the section above to help you differentiate between the types of vines that you may have, and this will allow you to decide which of the next steps you want to take.

2. Maintain The Situation If You Don’t Plan To Eradicate Vines

If you don’t intend to completely remove vines, we get that, it is a complicated yet delicate process that can be intimidating.

However, maintaining the situation is going to become key in keeping your tree safe and making sure it holds its own against any of the hardy vines that may be growing on it.

Regular pruning is a great way to make sure that vines don’t get out of control. This will allow you to have a heavier hand in keeping vines out of your tree’s canopy and even potentially protecting the tree’s root system more successfully.

3. Eradicate The Vines On Your Oak Tree

This is going to be a process, we won’t lie to you. It is crucial that you do not remove vines in a haphazard way, as that could directly impact the tree and its wellbeing.

You should be prepared to take time to intermittently remove the vines from your tree, its root system, its canopy, or any of those areas that do happen to be affected. Hopefully, by the time you notice vines growing on your tree, the process has not gone very far and the vine remains low.

However, if you’ve bought a house with an oak that has vines, or you have a large property and don’t catch the situation early on, the removal process will certainly be a more extensive one.

If you want to start fresh with a new oak tree, read more in our article: Oak Tree Sapling: How To Grow Plus Where To Buy.

How Do You Get Vines Off Of Oak Trees?

So, the process can be quite long, but should you try to do this quickly to get it over with? In a word, no.

One of the biggest things to keep in mind about removing vines is that speed is not the goal here. Though you may be concerned about the wellbeing of your tree, vine removal is something that takes time and technique.

If you are uncertain, we highly recommend reaching out to a trained professional who has experience with vine maintenance or removal to ensure that you don’t run into any serious issues. In fact, hastily digging, clipping, or spraying vines could very well lead to more damage than the vine itself had caused.

We know what you’re thinking- is there any winning here?

When it comes to vines, we’ll be honest, it is quite a tricky situation, but one that can be managed with the proper approaches and methods.

You could always get lucky with hasty removal, but odds are that a calculated approach will pay off exponentially when it comes to the lifespan and wellbeing of your oak tree.

Here are some practical ways you can approach vine removal, as long as you follow proper techniques and use the right tools.

A quick note, don’t remove posion ivy with your hands or burn it. While fully covered and gloved, you can cut posion ivy off at the base where it is connected to the ground and then spray the posion ivy folliage up the tree using a glyphosate spray and let the posion ivy die out afterwards. Be careful not to to spray exposed areas of the tree or foliage as that can damage the tree.

If you’re looking for a glyphosate spray, that’s the main active ingredient in Roundup Extended Control Grass Killer Plus Weed Preventer II. Make sure to follow specific product usage directions for your case.

Ultimately if you have posion ivy, our recommendation is to contact a local landscaping professional who can remove the poison ivy for you

Use Your Hands To Remove Vines From Your Oak Tree

Shears may seem like a good idea, but we are here to advise you to leave that technique to those trained to remove vines.

Additionally, if you have posion ivy, make sure not to actually touch any of it as it can cause a multitude of issues.

There is so much that could go wrong when removing vines with shears, especially when it comes to the root system. If too much of the tree’s roots are damaged when getting the roots of the vine removed the tree could end up perishing despite all your best efforts to save it.

So, you’ll need soft soil to start, as vines are more easily removed from looser soil. Next, you can take hand pruners to cut the stems of the vine from the roots themselves. You don’t want to use larger shears as the main method of removal.

A product like these Fiskers Bypass Pruning Shears with their sharp precision-ground steel blade is going to be the sort of thing you want to make clean, precise cuts that do not accidentally damage your tree.

Next, you’ll pull the roots of your oak out as completely as you can. This may not get them all, but you’ll be able to do this a few more times as you see any growth begin to resurface. Eventually, the roots will be nearly eradicated and the vine will be quite unlikely to grow back.

Pro tip: Do not remove the vines from your tree itself after severing their connection to the roots. This can severely damage the bark of your tree, and it is better to let the vines die out on their own.

Use Vinegar To Get Rid Of Vines From Your Oak Tree

If any part of using blades and leaving the vine to then die of its own accord makes you nervous, then perhaps using vinegar is the way to go for you!

The process here is going to be backward, you’ll begin not by pulling out the roots but by spraying the vine itself with white vinegar.

After a few days to a week, you’ll see that the vine is turning brown. All leaves should be brown before you try to remove the vine, or you’ll risk harming your oak tree by pulling a damaged but not yet dead vine from the bark.

Eventually, when you know that the vine is certainly dead, you can pull it from the tree. You’ll begin at the roots and then work your way up to the trunk and then any branches the vine might have entangled.

Pro Tip: Be careful to avoid spraying grass and other plants with vinegar, as this will damage them too.

How To Care For Your Oak Tree If It Has Been Impacted By Vines

Maintain Your Oak Tree After Vines Are Removed

During the vine removal process, or if you are allowing a vine to remain, or after you have removed the vine, there is one major step in common. Maintaining the health of your tree.

This might look like that intermittent but consistent trimming of vines that we mentioned above, or perhaps you’ll just be proactive and not allow the vine to grow out of control. If the vine is gone, maybe this looks like checking any weakened bark or helping to keep other branches pruned as a proactive measure.

Regardless of your approach, maintenance is going to be the key to making sure that your tree is secure, strong, and can thrive for many years to come.

Monitor Your Oak Tree For Damage

Okay, so there is another common step that is safe to expect across the board. Monitoring your oak tree is a must, even if you haven’t seen the negative impacts of having vines.

This does not have to look like an intense, daily chore. You don’t even need to do this weekly, to be honest.

So long as you check your tree each month or so for anything that stands out, like discoloration of bark or leaves, any insect or rodent damage, and other signs of weakening, you should be able to catch any issues that come up.

Especially when you do have a tree that is healing from some sort of damage, be it vine strangulation or a storm, or anything else, monitoring can help you to feel secure in the knowledge that your tree is progressing instead of further declining.

Fertilize Your Oak Tree

If you decide to keep some ivy on your tree for whatever reason it may be, keep in mind that the source of nutrition for the vine is going to be the same source that your tree is feeding off of.

Giving your tree some ways to get supplemental access to nutrients can be a game-changer, even if you’ve already removed all the vines.

Oak trees tend to prefer a fertilizer with an NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium concentration) of 12-6-6 or 12-4-8, and you can use a fertilizer like this Miracle-Gro Plant Food Concentrate to save money while being sure to give your tree extra access to nutrients it needs!

If you don’t want to go with Miracle-Gro, take a look at our guide for the best oak tree fertilizers here.

Hydrate Your Oak Tree

On that note, even if you decide to keep some English ivy for aesthetics, remember that vines and trees use the same water source. You’ll need to make sure you water your tree even more than usual if this is the case.

If you’ve removed the vines from your tree, you should still be sure to keep the tree watered on a regular basis to promote general growth and well-being.

That’s A Wrap!

That’s what we’ve got for you this time. For what it’s worth, you could be facing worse problems than vines but we hope that this piece has helped you understand how to approach this situation if or when it arises.

Thank you for reading this article and, as usual, we wish you the best of luck as you continue along your tree journey!

References

Dillenburg, L. R., Whigham, D. F., Teramura, A. H., & Forseth, I. N. (1993). Effects of vine competition on availability of light, water, and nitrogen to a tree host (Liquidambar styraciflua). American Journal of Botany, 80(3), 244-252.

Garfì, G., & Ficarrotta, S. (2003). Influence of ivy (Hedera helix L.) on the growth of downy oak (Quercus pubescens sl) in the Monte Carcaci nature reserve (central-western Sicily). Ecologia mediterranea, 29(1), 5-14.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 8, 2022

Ash Trees | Trees

Here’s How Much Water Ash Trees Actually Need

So, how much water do ash trees actually need to do well in a given environment? Ash trees are drought tolerant and grow well in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8. In general, here’s how much water ash trees need:

In the summer, new ash trees should be watered every 7-10 days with water reaching 2-3ft deep. In general during fall, spring, and winter, water your ash tree every 1-3 weeks. Ash trees generally need more water when it’s hotter and less when its colder. Established ash trees need less water.

Let’s dive deeper into the methods that you can use to water your ash tree and just how much water ash tree seeds, cuttings, seedling, saplings all specifically need!

Do Ash Trees Need Lots Of Water?

Since ash trees can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8, exactly how much water do they even really need? Well, although ash trees are drought resistant most of them do best in moist soil.

According to North Carolina State Extension, the white ash tree grows best in rich, moist soil, like that that you’d find in certain mountainous areas or near riverbeds.

Ash trees need different amounts of water at different stages of their life. For example, a sapling would do very poorly if watered as much as a mature tree. That amount of water would be too much for such a small organism.

So, how much water does an ash tree need at different stages of its life? Let’s dive into that now!

Want to learn more about watering trees? Check out our article about Here’s How Much Water Coconut Trees Need (Watering Tips)

How Often Should You Water Ash Trees?

Water requirements for your ash tree will also partly depend on the season.

Established trees in the summer should be watered every 7-10 days or so, during the fall and spring months, this can be decreased to roughly every 10-20 days, as the soil becomes drier.

During winter months, the rate of your watering can significantly decrease, to as infrequently as 14-21 days.

New Mexico State University gives a good explanation for a decrease in water requirements in the winter. As leaves drop from deciduous ash trees in the fall and winter, the use of water by the tree also decreases due to less volume of the tree, i.e. leaves, requiring water.

Next, we’re going to go over every possible scenario for watering your ash tree!

Watering Ash Tree Seeds

If you plan to grow your ash tree from seed, you’ll want to ensure that the soil around your seeds is kept constantly moist. Depending on your location, the amount of water for this requirement may change.

We recommend checking the soil daily to ensure that it appears adequately moist and not too wet. Toward the end of the summer months, you can expect to lessen the amount of watering that you do. As temperatures begin to lower, the soil retains a bit more moisture on its own.

Watering Ash Tree Cuttings

If you are starting from cuttings of an already-established ash tree, water requirements will vary as well. This is also referred to as propagating.

For this process, you’ll want to remove an 7-8inch section of greenwood from your ash tree. Next, remove all the leaves from this section, and place it into a pot filled with soil.

Finally, you’ll want to ensure that the area of the section that used to have leaves attached is partially buried (about 3 nodes where leaves used to be attached is a safe reference) and water the soil thoroughly.

Make sure the pot can support some of the water draining from the soil as needed so that it doesn’t retain too much moisture.

You’ll want to mist both the soil and the cutting daily to keep it moist.

For either of these first two planting methods, you can use the misting technique to keep the soil in your pot moist. Using a product like this Ebristar Glass Plant Mister will allow you to easily keep your soil moist, and in doing so will help maintain a good environment for your plant to grow.

What’s even cooler is the bottle itself is such a unique statement piece that doesn’t need to be put out of sight in the cupboard. Leave it among your plants and it’ll also act as an additional piece of decor.

Watering Ash Tree Seedlings

If you decide to plant a seedling itself, an already growing juvenile plant, you can plant your ash tree directly into the soil outdoors. There is no need for the potting method that is used for the first two stages of planting.

However, if you planted an ash tree from either a seed or a cutting, you’ll eventually have a seedling that is ready to be planted directly into the outdoor soil, so this is an important step.

Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources brings up a good consideration when planting anything in your landscape, you should be sure to check for underground gas and utility lines before digging anywhere.

However, it is best to leave roots straight down as you plant, you don’t want any small roots sticking to the sides as they could quickly dry out, especially without proper watering.

At this stage, you will want to adjust your watering practices for any plant outside. There is much more soil and a larger plant to work with.

A product like this Irrigation/Hydroponics Dripline with 6-in Emitter Spacing is a simple to use and cheap method of drip irrigation that can be placed in a circular shape around the base of your young ash tree to ensure even irrigation.

Watering Ash Tree Saplings

Regardless of how your ash tree began its growth, once it is a sapling you can expect to water your ash tree a bit more frequently.

You could plant your tree at this stage, as well, if you opt to buy a sapling as opposed to growing from a seed, cutting, or seedling.

The biggest factor in a successful sapling relocation comes back to the roots and the amount of moisture they receive. Dry roots will be the biggest cause of struggle when seeing how an ash tree assimilates to its new environment.

The general rule of thumb is that ash trees should start being watered at the same rate, and depth in the soil around this time of the tree’s life.

You should water newly planted trees every 7 to 10 days, which tends to be the standard for most species of trees.

The depth at which irrigation should penetrate the soil is about 24-36 inches, or 2-3 feet deep. This can be achieved by using irrigation systems like the one referenced above.

Watering Young Ash Trees

Young ash trees, older than a sapling but not quite in the ‘teenage years’ so to speak, will also require different amounts of water.

While this tree is not anymore newly planted, but not yet mature either, the frequency of watering can actually decrease for a period of time. This is because the tree is no longer trying to become established in the soil like it was at the beginning as a seedling or sapling. Additionally, it has a less extensive root system than it would during mid-life and at maturity.

You can water young, established trees every 14-20 days or so to maintain moisture, but again, avoid overwatering, which could spell peril for this young tree.

Watering Almost Mature Ash Trees

Once your ash tree is nearing maturity, you can increase the frequency of watering a bit more. Mid-life ash trees are generally anywhere from 3-16 years of age (or more) depending on the tree species itself.

The consistency of watering at this stage of life will remain the same throughout the rest of the ash tree’s life!

So, let’s move on to the next section to discuss the final stage of watering requirements for your ash tree.

Watering Mature Ash Trees

Ash trees reach maturity at anywhere from 16-60 years of age. This depends on many environmental factors, but the essence of it is that a tree at this stage of life will only require different amounts of watering when the seasons change.

A mature ash tree can be watered anywhere between every 7-21 days, depending on the time of year and general soil conditions.

That’s All For Today!

Well, that’s all we have for now! Thanks for sticking around and learning how much water ash trees actually need.

Let’s recap, in short, yes, ash trees need to be properly maintained with proper watering practices.

Thank you for learning with us! As always, we wish you success as you embark or continue on your personal tree journey. Until next time, friends!

References:

Arbab, N., Grabosky, J., & Leopold, R. (2022). Economic Assessment of Urban Ash Tree Management Options in New Jersey. Sustainability, 14(4), 2172.

Vertessy, R. A., Hatton, T. J., Reece, P., O’sullivan, S. K., & Benyon, R. G. (1997). Estimating stand water use of large mountain ash trees and validation of the sap flow measurement technique. Tree Physiology, 17(12), 747-756.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 6, 2022

Birch Trees | Trees

Here’s How Far Birch Tree Roots Spread (Plus Removal Tips)

You may recognize a birch tree from its characteristic peeling white and red bark when you’re out for a walk. Just how far do birch tree roots actually spread?

Birch tree roots spread as far as the tree grows wide and create an intensive mat of roots 4-8 inches thick below the soil surface and spread 20-40 feet as they mature, leading to issues with underground structures. In general, a birch tree’s root system doubles in size during its first year alone.

Although birch trees get a bad rep for their root systems, they are not as bad as they are made out to be! We are here to help you avoid any issues with your birch tree, established or newly planted. Keep reading for birch tree tips and to find out more about how far birch tree roots spread!

Just How Large Are Birch Tree Root Systems?

Birch trees have extremely large root systems. They form a 4-8 inch thick mat of far spreading roots directly underneath the soil to catch all the water possible.

Now, I know we said that before but thats 4-8 inches THICK. That’s wild!

They also extend to the width of the tree canopy. The tree canopy or crown is the term used to describe the width of the top of the tree and the circumference of how far the branches reach.

Underneath the surface, the thick root mat extends to the drip line of the tree canopy. The drip line or drip zone is the area directly under the outer edge of the tree canopy, where excess water runs off the branches and leaves and falls to the ground. A likely place to expect water-loving roots to reach!

Did you know the drip zone area is where the roots absorb the most water? The drip line or drip zone area is usually seen as a ring in the soil around the plant where runoff accumulates and the roots soak up.

According to the University of Berkeley, the drip line or ring area found in the soil is also called the Critical Root Zone (CRZ) or the Root Protection Zone (RPZ). This area is home to 85% of a tree’s roots, which draw in nutrients and water to the rest of the roots and tree.

The crowns of birch trees can be anywhere from 20-40 feet wide, and even wider in some cases! This means there is an intensely woven network of roots just as wide hiding beneath the surface! So yes, birch tree roots spread quite far.

Now, let’s dive deep into the nitty-gritty of where birch tree roots grow the most.

What Soil Do Birch Tree Roots Grow In?

We have already hinted that birch tree roots spread pretty far in the above section, but lets get into more of the nitty gritty here.

Although we mentioned above birch tree roots can double in size within the first year of growth, you do not have to worry about a birch tree taking over your home.

Generally, you find birch trees growing near water sources, along rivers, in shade, or wooded areas. Can you guess why? They love water!

Birch trees are moisture-loving trees that grow in a highly organic and loamy soil. Loamy soil is fertile and slow draining, consisting of sand, silt, and clay, so it holds moisture for a much longer time than strictly sandy soil. So if you have ever been to upstate New York, where the soil consists of clay, sand, and silt, chances are you have seen these trees!

Do Birch Tree Roots Cause Problems?

Now that we have covered just how far birch tree roots spread, let’s get into the question that everyone wants to know the answer to. Do birch tree roots cause problems?

Birch tree roots can cause problems. Will they? Not always, and probably not likely. Can they? Yes, they can.

For instance, if you have a birch tree planted near underground electrical wiring, plumbing, or even a drain field for your septic, far spreading birch tree roots can potentially cause issues for all of them.

Preventing this can be as simple as planting a birch tree far enough away from your home. Planting a birch tree at least 20 feet from your home can be sufficient for some varieties, but if you are still worried, you can plant them even further from your home.

If tree roots invade your home, it is likely they are in search of water or nutrients. So initially, watering and fertilizing your tree adequately can help prevent this too.

What Are Surface Roots For Birch Trees?

If you have any large birch trees near you, you may have surface roots. This happens when roots grow through the top layer of soil and are exposed at the surface, causing tripping hazards, issues in foundations of driveways, etc.

If surface roots become an issue, it is best to contact a tree professional to determine the best course of action for your tree. Remember that the far spreading roots of your birch tree will appear 4-8 inches below the surface in a thick mesh.

So, it’s not just a few roots spreading out BUT it’s quite a bit that will overtake the soil underneath.

A quick tip. If you have a birch tree that you’re trying to nourish, taking care of your trees means cutting back any dead, or dying limbs or branches. We like to put a plug in for one of our favorite tree trimming pole saws, Fiskars Chain Drive 7–16 Foot Extendable Pole Saw & Pruner (394631-1001).

This pole saw extends from 7 feet all the way to 16 feet tall, making it a breeze to cut high and out-of-reach branches! It cuts branches with ease, and you will not regret adding it to your tool shed!

Why You May Need To Remove Birch Tree Roots

While you could remove birch tree roots, it might be best to leave them or contact tree professionals.

Like we mentioned before, birch tree roots can cause issues with wiring, plumbing and your septic. It’s important to know just how deep those systems are in your yard so you can avoid having to remove far spreading birch tree roots if not necessary. If deeper than a foot, you may not have to worry about any wiring, plumbing or septic systems as the birch tree roots won’t reach them or intersect.

Again however, contact a local professional who has experience in removing birch tree roots.

If you decide to take matters into your own hands and cut or remove birch tree roots, you might do significant damage to your tree and even cause dieback. Significant damage could include disease or insect infestation, causing more issues than when you started.

If you’ve already cut down your birch tree and are trying to eliminate the birch tree roots from the soil, you can check out one of our popular methods of using vinegar to eliminate tree roots.

Most Common Birch Trees That Have Far Spreading Roots

So we’re talking about birch trees, but what are some common birch trees that you might have seen or know of that also have potentially invasive, far spreading birch tree roots? Let’s jump into a few here!

Here are several common birch tree species that have far spreading, shallow roots:

Yellow Birch, Betula alleghaniensis
River Birch, Betula nigra
Silver Birch, Betula pendula
Cherry Birch, Betula lenta
Red or Water Birch, Betula occidentalis
Paper Birch, Betula papyrifera

Before we get into this, not all birch trees have white bark. Only a few actually do! You can read our guide on which birch trees have white bark here.

Yellow Birch, Betula alleghaniensis

The yellow birch is one of the largest hardwood trees in North America. It is easy to recognize by its yellow leaves and insane height!

The yellow birch grows 60-75 feet tall and is found in sunny and lightly shaded areas. If you live in hardiness zones 3-7, you have probably seen this tree!

River Birch, Betula nigra

The river birch is one of my favorite trees! If you live in a swampy area or near rivers, you have probably seen this tree growing naturally, with its unmistakable dark red peeling bark. It grows in hardiness zones 4-9 to a height of 40-70 feet.

Silver Birch, Betula pendula

The silver birch grows in hardiness zones 2-6 and is known for its white peeling bark. Its leaves turn a bright yellow in the fall, and its branches grow in a beautiful pattern. This pattern is the reason for the tree’s nickname, the weeping birch.

Cherry Birch, Betula lenta

The cherry birch, also known as black birch or sweet birch, grows best in hardiness zones 3-7 and is native to Eastern North America. Its bark is very similar to a cherry tree, with lenticels along the entire bark. Unlike other birches, the cherry birch has a smooth bark appearance.

Red or Water Birch, Betula occidentalis

The red birch is commonly found in western North America at a variety of elevations, anywhere from 300-10,000 feet, mainly found in mountainous regions. It has striking dark brown and red bark with white lenticels. It is a much smaller birch tree and can take the form of a tree or a shrub, growing around 30 feet high.

Paper Birch, Betula papyrifera

The paper birch is one of the most known birch trees there is, because of its striking bark. You can find the paper birch in hardiness zones 2-7. Not only does the paper birch have incredibly smooth bright white bark that peels off like sheets of paper, but the leaves also turn a bright yellow color in the fall.

Some people will strip the bark off of living paper birch trees for various purposes. However, you should not do this, and to learn more on the topic, check out 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Peel Off Birch Tree Bark.

Most Common Areas Where Birch Trees Grow

As we mentioned above, birch trees love moist, wet areas with highly organic soil. Birch trees will grow best in USDA zones 2 to 7, although they will grow in USDA zones 8 to 9, they won’t live as long.

Birch trees prefer acidic, loamy, wet soil. They grow well in both sandy soil and clay soil. Birch trees can grow anywhere from 1-2 feet per year, and a mature birch tree can reach a height of 50-70 feet!

To learn more about birch trees and how they grow, check out our article: 4 Reasons Why Birch Trees Can’t Grow In The Shade.

Planst These Trees Instead To Avoid Far Spreading Birch Roots

So, if you are trying to steer clear of birch trees, there are a few different things you can plant instead.

If you are worried about care and watering, and potentially far spreading roots, then we have a few alternatives to birch trees for your yard. Keep in mind these are just a few suggestions, and there are many more out there!

Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum
Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana
American Redbud, Cercis canadensis
Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’
Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia
Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum

There are so many types of Japanese maples ranging in all sizes, colors, and shapes, most of which grow in hardiness zones 5-8.

A few common varieties of Japanese maple include:

Bloodgood

This tree grows to be 15-20 feet tall and thrives in full sun to partial shade. In the summer, it sports dark red and purple leaves.

Coral Bark

The coral bark maple is great for large landscapes, growing to a height of 20-25 feet tall. It has dark red bark and golden leaves that will impress you year-round!

Autumn Moon

This Japanese maple will grow well in hardiness zones 4-8. It grows to a height of 6-10 feet tall, with gorgeous yellow and orange leaves in the spring.

Red Dragon

The red dragon grows to a height of 6-8 feet tall and does best in full sun to partial shade. It is one of the smaller varieties of Japanese maple and is perfect for any small space. The red dragon grows best in hardiness zones 5-8.

Crimson Queen

The crimson queen grows to a height of 8-10 feet tall and does best in full sun to partial shade. This Japanese maple grows in a weeping shape and has lace, deep cut leaves.

Depending on the area where you are planting, you may choose a certain size of Japanese maple tree or one based on the look, foliage, color, and shape!

Japanese maples come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you are bound to find one to fit in your landscape.

Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana

If you have not seen a saucer magnolia before, it will probably have you in awe when they bloom in early spring. Their blooms resemble large dark pink and cream colored teacups.

The saucer magnolia grows well in hardiness zones 4-9 to a height of 20-30 feet tall and 25 feet wide, making this a great alternative to plant in place of a birch!

Like the other trees we have mentioned, this magnolia grows best in well-draining soils, especially in acidic, loamy, and sandy soils. This tree grows best in full sun, with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

The saucer magnolia grows in a beautiful round shape and grows well in areas that have cold winters. It has a relatively good pollution tolerance, which is why you’d see them in Central Park in New York City.

American Redbud, Cercis canadensis

When you are trying to decide if you want to plant a birch tree in your yard, the American redbud might be a great alternative if the birch tree is not sitting at the top of your list.

The American redbud has heart-shaped leaves and vibrant purple-pink blooms in early spring. Redbuds grow anywhere from 20-30 feet tall and 30 feet wide, just slightly smaller than some birch trees.

They grow well in hardiness zones 4-9 and grow best in full sun to partial shade. Redbuds like well-draining soils and grow well in windy areas. Their vibrant blooms turn into dark purple leaves in late spring, and then a dark green in early summer.

If you decide to plant an American redbud in your yard, you will not be sorry! They will provide you with interest year-round.

Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’

The weeping cherry is a true specimen tree, commonly referred to as a Higan cherry! It grows best in full sun and hardiness zones 5-8. Although it is a cherry tree, it is purely ornamental, grown for its gorgeous white and pink blooms.

If an ornamental cherry tree interests you, check out our article, 8 Types Of Mock Cherry Trees And Where They Grow, to learn more about these types of trees.

The weeping cherry prefers well-draining soil and tolerates cold weather well. There are tons of them in Long Island.

The relatively small size of the weeping cherry makes it a perfect fit for your yard, especially if you are worried about the size of a birch tree!

Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica

The crape myrtle is an incredible tree that will keep you interested through all four seasons. If the flowers in the summer do not impress you, the bark will be a showstopper in the winter!

Crape myrtles grow well in hardiness zones 6-9 and grow to a height of 15-25 feet tall and anywhere between 6-15 feet wide. Although crape myrtles are full sun, they can tolerate partial shade, meaning they get at least six hours of direct sun per day.

Because of their size, the crape myrtle is perfect for small or large spaces and does well in hot and humid climates, but surprisingly they grow well on Long Island!

Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

The flowering dogwood is a seriously incredible tree! It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The flowering dogwood is most notable for its beautiful pink and white flowers that first emerge in the spring.

This dogwood grows anywhere from 15-30 feet tall and wide and grows well in Hardiness Zones 5-9.

The flowering dogwood is beautiful in all seasons and even bears bright red berries in the fall and winter. With 1-2 feet of growth per year, the flowering dogwood might be perfect for your yard!

If you want to learn more about some great birch tree alternatives for your landscape, check out our article, 12 Fastest Growing Shade Trees For Small Yards!

That’s A Wrap!

Hopefully, now you feel more comfortable about birch trees and what you can do if a birch tree is not exactly what you had in mind.

While birch tree roots can be invasive, it is not likely they will take over your home. Therefore they are technically not invasive but just in case, we wanted you to feel comfortable in knowing what to do if a birch tree causes any issues.

We recommend not removing any birch tree roots yourself, as it could cause more harm than good to your tree, so our recommendation would be to contact tree professionals!

While a birch tree can be a beautiful addition to your yard (if you do not have one already), we understand it is daunting to plant a tree with a huge, thick root spread.

To recap, here are a few alternatives to birch trees that you can plant in your yard if you’re looking for landscaping ideas:

Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum
Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana
American Redbud, Cercis canadensis
Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’
Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia
Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

Thanks for learning and reading about birch trees with us! Birch trees are not as daunting as they seem, but if you are unsure of what to do if you have a tree issue, contact a tree or landscaping professional!

References:

Kupper, Priit, et al. “Impact of high daytime air humidity on nutrient uptake and night-time water flux in silver birch, a boreal forest tree species.” Regional Environmental Change 17.7 (2017): 2149-2157.

Ranney, T. G., R. E. Bir, and W. A. Skroch. “Comparative drought resistance among six species of birch (Betula): influence of mild water stress on water relations and leaf gas exchange.” Tree Physiology 8.4 (1991): 351-360.

Uri, Veiko, et al. “Biomass production, foliar and root characteristics and nutrient accumulation in young silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) stand growing on abandoned agricultural land.” European Journal of Forest Research 126.4 (2007): 495-506.

Vaitkutė, D., Baltrėnaitė, E., Booth, C. A., & Fullen, M. A. (2010). Does sewage sludge amendment to soil enhance the development of Silver birch and Scots pine?. Hungarian Geographical Bulletin, 59(4), 393-410.

By Zack DeAngelis

March 3, 2022

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