The following native trees of the Treasure Coast are being spotlighted for reforestation by local residents
:
Coastal:
Gumbo Limbo
Redbay
Wetland:
Dahoon Holly
Sweetbay Magnolia
Upland:
Sand Live Oak
Simpson Stopper
TREES are one of man’s best friends. They breathe out
oxygen which we breathe in and they breathe in carbon dioxide which we
breathe out. They also take in enormous amounts of carbon dioxide which
we put out into the environment through industrial and energy
production. The shade of trees also cools us directly during hot
seasons and can lower the cooling costs for our buildings when they are
growing nearby. Trees also help to stabilize soil and hold water in the
earth diminishing storm water runoff. We greatly help ourselves and the
natural environment when we plant native trees.
PLANTING and CARING for YOUR NATIVE TREE
1.
Placement: Choose a planting spot that is mostly sunny and large enough
for the mature tree. It should be free of overhead wires and
branches from other trees and away from septic systems.
2.
Planting: Dig a hole to the depth of the root ball. Do not add any soil
amendments or fertilizer. While near the hole carefully remove the tree
from the pot. Examine the roots, and, if they are wrapped around the
root ball, loosen some of the exterior ones. Plant with the top of the
root ball level with the surrounding soil. Use the extra soil to make a
saucer to help hold water.
3. Mulch: Add 2-3” of organic
mulch from the outer edge of the saucer to the edge of the root ball.
Do not allow mulch to remain against the trunk as this can cause the
bark to rot.
4. Watering: Water into the saucer every day for
two weeks, then every other day for two weeks. Thereafter, water twice
per week if there is no substantial rainfall. After one year the tree
should be well established and require no supplemental watering unless
there is a serious drought.
5. Enjoy: Affectionately check
the tree once in a while to make sure it is ok and take any needed
action e.g. protection, watering, etc. This kind attention will reward
you with many years of shade, beauty, and wildlife viewing.
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