The right tree in the right spot is typically the focus of most tree planting programs. Finding what works for our intended purpose and then making sure we have it located appropriately is an important part of the planting’s success, and cannot be ignored! What often does get overlooked however, are some of the finer details we need to pay heed to after planting!
We always think about watering. That’s important! We might give some attention to wildlife damage if deer or rabbits are issues. That’s also important. What about weed and grass control? Any cause for concern? Research says definitely!
Three K-State researchers at the John C. Pair Horticultural Center wanted to take a look at the effect of grass control (or lack thereof!) on newly planted trees. This study was designed to look at landscape trees, but the same effect can be had on windbreak plantings as well.
Their study included five treatments on pecan and redbud and three species of grasses: bare soil maintained with herbicides, area under tree mulched three inches deep, and grass (tall fescue, bermudagrass, or Kentucky bluegrass) allowed to grow under the tree. All trees were fertilized according to recommendations and watered as necessary during the growing season. Trees were monitored and information collected on diameter at six inches above ground, weight of aboveground portions of the tree, leaf area, and leaf weight.
The results were clear cut, showing no differences in any measure between the mulched and bare soil treatments for either tree species. When compared to treatments where the turf grasses were allowed to grow, all measures showed significant growth increases if lawn grasses were controlled around the tree. Tree diameter was compromised if any grass was allowed to grow with cool season grasses reducing diameters by almost half as compared to treatments were grass was controlled. Top growth weight, leaf area, and leaf weight were all significantly greater when grass was controlled as well.
The obvious conclusion: control grasses under a newly transplanted trees to get the best possible growth! If herbicides don’t leave the look you want or you don’t want to risk damage to trees, give strong consideration to mulch or even weed barrier fabric. No matter how you do it, make sure grasses are controlled to a minimum of three feet from the trunk of the tree.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Atchison apt fire claim's toddler's life, injures others
Four arrested for illegal activity on Kickapoo Reservation
Two search warrants, two Horton homes, two arrests
Document forgery alleged in ATCO's Walnut Township
Two Brown Co officers honored for their bravery
Whiting woman pleads to theft of fire dept. funds
Wetmore man arrested on child sex-related charge
Flags across KS to fly half-staff Sunday
Walnut Township Treasurer removed; votes unofficial until canvass
Winning lottery ticket sold in Falls City about to expire
Two men arrested in Jackson Co for distribute of meth
Tornado damage surveyed in NE KS
TX man to stand trial on charges in fatal Jackson Co crash
Local judge files for re-election
One injured in Nemaha Co wreck
Atchison in running for national fireworks honors
Trail rides ending at Indian Cave State Park
LATEST STORIES
Doniphan Co Commission approves zoning change
One injured in Nemaha Co wreck
Sheriff: phone call promises of free money is a scam
Moran works for Mayetta veteran's recognition
Atchison Commission to focus on manager vacancy Thursday
Falls city Council hears updates on grant programs
Work underway to draft new Missouri River management plan