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Author: John Campanini

RI Tree Reveals Dates of Tree Stewards Course in Warwick, RI

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

PROVIDENCE, RI, March 27—Rhode Island Tree Council recently announced that registration is now open for its Spring Tree Stewards course, which will be held at the AAA building in the City Hall Annex Community Room . The course’s lecture sessions are May 1, 8, 15, and 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The course’s planting session is May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The course fee is $50.00 for RITree members and $75 for non-members. Registration can be made online at www.ritree.org or by calling RITree @ 401-764-5885. Seating is limited.

“The Tree Stewards course provides an in-depth look at the basics of tree care and growth and covers various tree-related topics,” says John Campanini, RITree’s technical director. “It’s always been our most popular course, so seating fills up quickly. It’s only one of RI Tree’s many activities to educate the public about trees and their benefits.”

The Tree Stewards Course is held in the fall and the spring at locations throughout Rhode Island. The course reviews the basics of tree care and tree growth, including the following topics:

• Tree Biology
• Tree Identification
• Tree Health
• Planting & Pruning
• Urban Forestry
• Soil

The course also reviews insect and disease diagnosis, common invasives, and plant stressors. Attendees should bring a lunch to the Saturday workshops. The course provides 21.5 ISA CEUs and 20 MG for landscape professionals.

For more information about the courses or to register, call Robin Enos at RI Tree at 401-764-5885 or visit its website: www.ritree.org. People also can register by emailing the organization at ritree@ritree.org.

About RITree

The Rhode Island Tree Council is a tax-exempt, non-profit group dedicated to improving the state’s tree resources and educating the public on tree benefits. Composed of members, consultants, and volunteers, RITree administers its programs through its Board of Directors, Advisors, and Trustees. The group’s mission is to create healthy urban and community forests that underpin the state’s verdant ecological tapestry, support its vibrant economy, and enrich its residents’ lives. Membership is open to all.

For more information about RITree or any of its programs, contact Robin Enos, Rhode Island Tree Council, at (401) 764-5885, email RITree at RITree@RITree.org, or visit the Rhode Island Tree Council’s website at www.ritree.org

Contact:
Robin Enos
RITree Council
Tel: 401-764-5885
Web: www.ritree.org
Email: RITree@RITree.org

Using Trees to Minimize an Urban Area’s Ecological Footprint Pays Off

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

Urbanization affects everything from air and water quality to biodiversity and ecosystem balance. These areas have higher levels of air pollution from vehicle emissions, particularly around main roads. They also use more resources like water and energy than rural areas. In short, urbanization greatly impacts the environment no matter where you live.

Trees can reduce an urban area’s ecological footprint. They are essential to a healthy urban ecosystem. A mature tree, for example, can absorb up to 48 pounds of carbon dioxide annually. Trees are a lifeline for wildlife, filter tons of air pollution, and cool the surrounding temperature several degrees. They can also block sunlight from reaching the ground, reduce heat absorption, and improve air circulation.

Below, we look at the ecological benefits trees provide in urban areas.

Benefits of Urban Forestry?

Urban forestry is the art and science of managing trees and other vegetation in urban environments for people and ecosystems. It’s about planning, planting, caring for, and maintaining trees in cities and towns to maximize their ecological, social, and economic benefits. Urban forestry aims to create sustainable and resilient urban forests that improve air and water providenceri.gov quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, increase biodiversity, and create healthier, more livable communities.

Urbanization’s environmental impacts vary greatly depending on city size, population density, and sustainable development. Industrial waste, sewage overflow, and stormwater runoff can pollute water bodies. Understanding these impacts is key to building sustainable, thriving cities and minimizing their ecological footprint. Trees can reduce an urban area’s ecological footprint and deliver significant environmental benefits while having minimal impact.

Here are some benefits of urban forestry in Rhode Island. Trees can:
• Cooling the surface temperature by several degrees reduces the “urban heat island effect” and lowers energy costs for cooling buildings.
• Release moisture into the air through transpiration and cool the surrounding environment.
• Aerate the soil, improve water infiltration, and prevent soil erosion with their roots.
• Provide habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife, increasing biodiversity in urban areas.
• Beautify urban landscapes by making them more visually appealing and inviting.
• Reduce stress on residents and improve mental health and well-being.
These are just some things trees can do for people and the environment. A tree’s impact will vary depending on its species, size, and urban environment.
Mitigating the Urban Heat Island
The urban heat island effect occurs when cities are much warmer than surrounding rural areas. This temperature difference is due to the abundance of heat-absorbing surfaces like concrete and asphalt, the lack of vegetation for cooling, and the concentration of heat-generating activities in urban areas. Mitigating the urban heat island in a city like Providence is key to creating a more sustainable and livable city.
How do cities combat the urban heat island effect? They design urban areas with better ventilation, proper building orientation, and more green spaces, which can help cool urban areas. Planting trees, creating parks, and promoting green roofs can also help. While the impact of a single tree may seem small, the cumulative effect of many trees across an urban area can significantly mitigate the urban heat island effect and create a more comfortable and sustainable living environment.

Impact of Trees in Providence
Providence has some interesting tree stats. About 27% of the city is covered by tree canopy, which means 27% of the city is shaded when viewed from above. Providence has an estimated 415,000 trees, about 34.4 trees per acre. The most common tree species in Providence are Norway maple, northern red oak, and Honey locust.
Tree canopy cover is not evenly distributed across Providence. Wealthier neighborhoods like the East Side have much higher tree canopy cover (over 30% in some areas) than lower-income neighborhoods where canopy cover can be as low as 6%. Half of Providence’s trees are relatively young, almost 50% less than 6 inches in diameter. That means we must continue planting and maintaining trees to have a healthy and mature urban forest.
These stats show the importance of trees in Providence and the city’s challenges in maintaining and growing its urban forest. The uneven distribution of tree canopy means we need equitable tree planting initiatives so all residents can access the benefits of trees. You can find more info and reports on Providence’s tree canopy on the city’s website (providenceri.gov) and through the PVD Tree Plan (pvdtreeplan.org).
For more information on urban forestry or combatting the heat island effect, contact the experts at RI Tree (www.ritree.org).

7 Must-Visit Sites to Transform Your Tree Care Approach

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog, Tree Care.

The internet has revolutionized our lives, and tree care is no exception. With just a few clicks, you can tap helpful information on tree care, from detailed guides on tree selection and planting to interactive tools for identifying pests and diseases.

These online resources, with their unparalleled convenience and accessibility, put the power in your hands, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to make crucial decisions about tree care.

Proper tree care is a gateway to a multitude of benefits. It enhances tree health and increases property values, improves air quality, reduces energy costs, and enhances landscape aesthetics. Plus, it reduces noise pollution, improves mental well-being, prevents soil erosion, and boosts wildlife habitats.

While delivering proper tree care presents challenges, the rewards are undeniably worthwhile.
This article reviews the impact of technology on arboriculture and the myriad benefits of using tree care websites.

  1. International Society of Arboriculture (ISA): This website is a comprehensive arborist resource with information on best practices, certifications, research, and industry news. It’s excellent for professionals seeking advanced knowledge and staying current with industry standards.
  2. TreesAreGood.org: This site focuses on education and advocacy for tree benefits. It offers homeowners resources on tree selection, care, and urban forestry. It’s great for property owners who want to understand the value of trees and how to care for them properly.
  3. The Morton Arboretum: This handy website offers in-depth information on tree identification, planting, care, and diseases, as well as a vast online plant database. It’s a valuable resource for homeowners and arborists seeking in-depth information on specific tree species.
  4. Arbor Day Foundation: The foundation promotes tree planting and conservation, offering resources on tree care and environmental stewardship for homeowners, educators, and communities. It’s excellent for those interested in environmental impact and finding ways to contribute to tree conservation efforts.
  5. University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: This site provides research-based information on a wide range of topics related to urban forestry, including tree selection, pest and disease management, and drought tolerance. It’s a significant source of scientific information for both homeowners and professionals.
  6. National Arborist Association (NAA): This site focuses on arborists and offers resources on industry best practices, safety, and business management. It’s valuable for arborist professionals seeking resources specific to their business needs.
  7. RI Tree Council: This site provides localized information on tree care, pest and disease management, and best practices for Rhode Island and New England. It offers the most relevant and up-to-date information for your local climate and environmental conditions.

New England Tree Care Resources

In addition to the resources described above, there are local resources that you can consult when you need guidance on tree care. They include the New England Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (NEC-ISA), which provides regional arborists resources, education, and networking opportunities. The Rhode Island Tree Council
is the local arborist association for this state.
Each New England state also has its own forestry or agriculture departments that offer resources and educational programs, including university extensions. These programs often provide local expertise on tree care, including pest and disease management, and may offer workshops or consultations. The University of Rhode Island (URI) is involved in tree care through education, research, extension programs, and community engagement.

Plus, there are the state forestry departments. These departments can provide information on tree species suitable for your region, invasive species, and forest health. The Rhode Island State Forestry Division is part of the state’s Department of Environmental Management.
Many local communities have arborist associations that can connect you with qualified professionals and provide information on local tree care issues.

This list of tree care resources isn’t exhaustive, and the ranking may vary depending on individual needs and priorities. But they are critical resources you can take advantage of when necessary. Also, let RI Tree know if you find valuable online resources providing helpful tree care information.

Transform Your Garden with These 10 Must-Read Tree Guides!

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” is proof that books can change the world. Published in 1962, this classic alerted us to the dangers of pesticides, especially DDT. Carson’s thorough research on the harm DDT and other synthetic pesticides were doing to the environment and her emphasis on the interconnectedness of ecosystems make it a must-read for anyone who wants to make a difference with trees.

Carson makes a compelling case. Using science and facts, she shows that pesticides poison wildlife, contaminate food chains, and generate unforeseen consequences. She also argues for a more responsible and sustainable approach to environmental management and that the indiscriminate use of pesticides would create resistant pests that would require even more toxic chemicals.

The book changed the U.S. It sparked a national conversation, led to changes in DDT policy in the U.S., and inspired the modern environmental movement. But most importantly it brought attention to the dangers of pesticides. It was a powerful and influential book that challenged the idea of human dominance over nature and helped launch the environmental era.

Below are nine other books that have impacted society:

  1. “The Hidden Life of Trees” by Peter Wohlleben: This book revolutionized public perception of trees, showcasing their complex social and emotional lives. It sparked a global interest in forest ecology and inspired a greater appreciation for the intricate workings of these vital organisms.
  2. “The Nature and Properties of Soils” by N.M. Comber: Though not solely focused on trees, this book significantly advanced our understanding of soil science, a crucial factor in tree health and growth. Its impact on agricultural practices has indirectly benefited tree care and forest management.
  3. “Arboriculture: Care of Trees, Shrubs, and Vines in the Landscape” by Michael Dirr: A foundational text in arboriculture, this book has educated generations of arborists and tree care professionals. Its comprehensive approach has significantly improved tree care practices worldwide.
  4. “The Tree Expert” by John M. Harris: This classic text provides in-depth information on tree identification, physiology, pathology, and care practices. Its comprehensive information and practical advice make it an invaluable resource for both professional arborists and home gardeners, empowering them with the knowledge they need to care for trees effectively.
  5. “The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees” by Douglas W. Tallamy: This book delves into the profound ecological significance of oak trees, highlighting their crucial role in supporting a diverse array of wildlife and their vital contributions to healthy ecosystems.
  6. “The Urban Forest Ecosystem: A Guide to the Science and Practice of Urban Forestry” by Gary Moll: This book explores the ecological principles of urban forests and provides insights into the management and conservation of trees in urban environments.
  7. “The Tree Climber’s Companion” by Jeff Jepson: This book is a valuable resource for arborists and tree climbers, covering essential skills and techniques for safely and efficiently working in trees, including climbing methods, rigging, and safety precautions.
  8. “The Man Who Planted Trees” by Jean Giono: This fictional novella, though not a scientific treatise, has had a profound cultural impact. It inspired countless individuals to engage in reforestation efforts and fostered a deeper connection between humans and the natural world, including trees.
  9. “The Overstory” by Richard Powers: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel explores the interconnectedness of humans and trees through a powerful and moving narrative. It has brought renewed attention to the importance of forests and inspired a new generation of environmental advocates.
    This list offers a diverse selection of books to suit different interests and levels of expertise. Whether you’re a casual tree lover or a professional arborist, these books can deepen your understanding and appreciation of these magnificent organisms.

RI Tree Announces Site for Arbor Day 2025

RI Tree recently announced the date and site for its Arbor Day 2025 celebration, which will be held at the Providence Country Day (PCD) School, East Providence, RI, on April 25th, starting at 11:00 a.m. The event includes a tree-planting ceremony on PCD grounds, lunch, speakers, and a Tree City USA Awards presentation to the host communities. Tulips, London planes, and elm trees will also be planted on PCD’s grounds as part of a school reforestation effort.
This year’s celebration will be the state’s 138th. Arbor Day recognizes the importance of trees, which provide numerous benefits to residents, including purifying the air, helping cool the earth, boosting property values, and soothing the human psyche. Trees also beautify where we live, work, and play and slow and absorb stormwater, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in annual flood damage and treatment costs.
For more details or questions about this year’s Arbor Day, contact RITree at 401-764-5885 or email ritree@ritree.org.

Eco-Friendly Christmas Trees That Support Sustainability: 6 Options

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

There’s nothing like a real Christmas tree. Buying and decorating a real tree is a cherished holiday tradition passed down through generations for many families. Real Christmas trees emit a delightful pine scent that fills your home with the classic holiday aroma, adding to the holiday spirit. For those who had a real tree every year growing up, the sight and smell of one evokes nostalgia and great memories. Buying a real Christmas tree also supports local businesses and farmers, contributing to the local economy.

But for environmentally conscious people, choosing an eco-friendly Christmas tree is an option. For many people, making eco-friendly choices aligns with their values and beliefs. Eco-friendly trees offer numerous benefits, including reducing carbon emissions and your carbon footprint, conserving natural resources, and protecting wildlife habitats. Put another way, choosing an eco-friendly tree is a way to celebrate the holiday season responsibly and contribute to a more sustainable future.  

Here are six eco-friendly options for this Christmas season:

  1. Live Potted Trees: Choose a small, potted tree that you can plant outdoors after the holidays. This sustainable option adds greenery to your home and supports local nurseries.
  2. Artificial Trees: A high-quality artificial tree can be reused for many years, reducing waste from disposable trees. Look for trees made from recycled materials or eco-friendly plastics.
  3. Recycled Trees: Some companies offer Christmas trees made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles or cardboard. These trees are a unique and sustainable option.
  4. Rented Trees: Renting a real Christmas tree is a great way to enjoy the beauty of a natural tree without contributing to deforestation. After the holidays, the tree is returned to the farm to be replanted.
  5. Houseplants: Decorate a small houseplant, such as a Norfolk Island pine or a rosemary bush, with lights and ornaments for a festive, sustainable centerpiece.
  6. Minimalist Trees: To reduce your environmental impact, look for a smaller tree or a tree with fewer decorations. Focus on quality over quantity and choose sustainable decorations.

Many eco-friendly options, like live trees and recycled artificial trees, can be easily recycled or composted. In some communities, recycling programs for real Christmas trees often support community projects and charities.

Tips on Picking a Real Christmas Tree

For those of you who must have a real Christmas Tree, we’ve provided nine tips on buying one. Keep the following tips in mind, and you’ll come home with the best tree for you and your family:

  1. Measure the space first. Before going shopping, measure the area where you will put the tree. That way, you won’t buy a tree that’s too big or too small.
  2. Look for a fresh tree. You want a tree with fresh green needles firmly attached to the tree and has a pleasant piney smell.
  3. Shake the tree. If too many needles fall off, the tree is too dry to buy.
  4. Bend the branches. They should be flexible yet firm. The branches shouldn’t snap easily, either.
  5. Look for a tree with a strong central leader. It’s the main vertical branch that runs up the tree’s center. You want it to be straight and strong.
  6. Inspect the trunk for damage. The trunk should be straight and free of cracks and splits.
  7. Cut the bottom of the tree. Ask the salesperson to cut the bottom of the tree before you leave. Cutting the bottom helps the tree take up water.
  8. Place the tree in a stand filled with water. Keep the water level constant while you have the tree, and check it daily.
  9. Place the tree in a safe location. Keep it away from heat sources in your house, like fireplaces and radiators, to prevent it from drying out too soon.

Keep these tips in mind when buying your Christmas tree. They’ll help you find the perfect tree for you. Ultimately, the best tree is the one that you like the best.

Top Christmas Tree Farms

For places to buy a freshly cut Christmas tree, check out the Rhode Island Christmas Tree Growers Association (RICTGA). It is an association of growers and retailers interested in promoting the Christmas Tree Industry. It lists Christmas tree growers in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

You can also visit retail stores like Home Depot, Walmart, and Target. They also sell Christmas trees and carry a wide selection of artificial ones in various sizes and styles, making them a convenient option for those who prefer a prelit or hassle-free tree.

Enjoy the holidays!

Boost Your Trees’ Lifespan: Winterizing Secrets You Can Apply Now

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

New England winters are often hard on trees. How well trees survive a winter depends on factors like geographic location, weather conditions, tree species, and tree health. Some tree species, for example, are more susceptible to winter damage than others.  Signs of winter damage include sunscald, winter desiccation, frost cracks, branch breakage, root damage, and pest and disease infestation. You can take steps now, however, to reduce these threats.

Winterizing trees protects them from extreme temperatures, wind damage, diseases, and pests. This protection, in turn, helps trees survive winter and supports recovery and stability. More importantly, it sets the stage for vigorous spring growth. The bottom line: Winterizing your trees helps ensure their short-term and long-term survival. Properly watering, pruning, and mulching are critical steps when winterizing trees.

Watering  

Water is essential for trees to survive, regardless of the season. A tree’s watering needs depend on the species, climate, and soil conditions. Deep watering is ideal. Aim to soak the soil deep enough to reach the root zone. That’s generally about 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) deep. Water slowly. You want the water to penetrate rather than runoff. Avoid over-watering.

How do you know when to water? Water young trees so you always keep the soil moist. Use a soil probe or your finer to check the moisture level. Water the tree if the top couple of inches of soil are dry. Gentle watering at this time can help thaw the soil and prevent root damage.) If the ground is frozen, watering ensures moisture in the soil.  Applying mulch enhances the watering process.

Mulching

Mulching is another critical winterizing activity. It protects the trees from extreme temperatures, conserves moisture, and suppresses weeds. Fall is an excellent time to mulch r. Doing so protects roots from winter’s cold and helps retain the soil’s moisture.

You can also mulch during the early spring, especially if the mulch has been washed away over the winter. How you apply the mulch is critical. Consider the tree species beforehand. Some species require more mulch than others.

Remove any weeds growing around the tree before applying mulch. Keep it away from the tree trunk, which can lead to rot. Spread the mulch evenly around the tree’s base. Also, check for pests as you spread the mulch, which can sometimes harbor pests like voles, ants, mice, slugs, and snails.

Pruning in the Winter

Winter is a great time to prune trees. Most deciduous trees, such as maples, oaks, and elms, can be pruned in the winter. It’s a good idea to prune trees with dormant buds. Pruning fruit trees in the winter also works. It can help to maintain their shape, increase fruit production, and rejuvenate older trees. Like pines and spruces, evergreens are another tree species you can prune in the winter. Prune these trees lightly. Heavy pruning can hurt a tree.

Here are some wintertime pruning tips:

• Don’t prune when it’s freezing.
• Remove dead or damaged wood.
• Thin out dense canopies.
• Shape the tree appropriately.

Think about a tree’s species when pruning. A tree’s pruning needs depend on its species, age, or overall health. Review our other pruning blog posts on this site.

New England winters can be brutal on trees. How well they survive depends on several factors, including their species. You can boost the chances of trees surviving the winter by winterizing them. Properly watering, mulching, and pruning trees can protect trees and help them combat the season’s threats. Use our guidelines to help winterize your trees. If you’re not clear on how to do that, talk with a local arborist or the experts at RITree for personalized advice on winter tree care for trees.

How to Prevent Fungal Diseases in Your Plants: 5 Tips

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Tree Care.

Fungal diseases can devastate trees and plants. They can cause cankers, leaf diseases, and root rot. Factors affecting the impact of fungal diseases include tree and plant health, environmental conditions, and the type of fungal species.

Different fungal species have varying levels of aggressiveness and target specific parts of a tree. Pruning infected branches or removing infected leaves can help contain the spread of these diseases, but eliminating these diseases is still a challenge.

Prevention is the best way to eliminate fungal diseases. Choose plant and tree varieties resistant to common fungal diseases in your region. Below are some additional measures to help prevent fungal diseases from attacking your plants.

  1. Use proper planting techniques: Spacing is critical for fungal diseases. It allows for good air circulation and prevents overcrowding, which can favor fungal growth by creating a humid environment.
  2. Watering practices: Water deeply and infrequently, aiming for the base of the plant or tree rather than overhead watering.
  3. Mulching: Spreading a layer of mulch around the base of your plants and trees will help you retain moisture in the soil, which is critical. Mulch also prevents excessive dampness near the stem, creating a less hospitable environment for fungi.
  4. Sanitation is critical in preventing the spread of fungal diseases. Remove and dispose of diseased plant material promptly. Also, clean and disinfect pruning tools regularly to prevent the spreading of fungal diseases between plants.
  5. Promote plant health: Use balanced fertilization to give your trees and plants the nutrients to thrive. Healthy plants are more resilient and better able to resist fungal infections.
    The five steps above can help create a healthier and more hospitable environment for plants and trees while preventing fungal diseases. By learning about these diseases, taking the proper countermeasures, and treating the diseases when they first appear, you can significantly lessen a fungi’s impact.

7 Steps You Need to Take Now to Prevent Fungal Diseases from Devastating Your Plants and Trees

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Blog.

By: John Campanini, Technical Director, RITree

Fungal diseases pose significant threats to trees (and plants). These diseases can damage trees, ranging from slight blemishes to complete tree death. Woody decay, for example, the most common impact of fungal diseases in trees, weakens tree structure and reduces stability. Fungal diseases also cause cankers, leaf diseases, and root rot in trees and plants. Factors affecting the impact of fungal diseases include tree and plant health, environmental conditions, and type of fungal species.

Fungal diseases contribute greatly to tree mortality in forests and urban landscapes. Hot, humid weather helps generate these diseases. Different fungal species have varying levels of aggressiveness and target specific parts of a tree, so each fungal disease must be treated differently. Pruning infected branches or removing infected leaves can help contain the spread but eliminating these diseases completely is still a challenge.

Fungal Diseases Emerging Locally

A rash of fungal diseases caused by wet spring and recent high humidity is now appearing in our area. Monitor vulnerable plants for the following disease symptoms:  

  • Flowering Dogwood Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew—Disease symptoms appear as purple to brown circular spots on leaves, the latter as a white coating over leaves. Treat with fungicide for best results. See photo below.

• Prunus, Malus, and Crataegus species— Fire blight on these plants results in sudden wilting, browning, and the death of leaves and shoots caused by a bacterium. There’s no cure for this fungus. Remove and dispose of dead plant parts. See photo below.

• Needle Blight on Spruce—Discoloring (yellow to tan to brown) and dropping of needles. Symptoms start at the bottom of a tree and proceed upwards. Drought stress is a major disease causal factor. See photo below.

Other fungal diseases popular in this region are Dutch Elm disease, Cedar Apple Rust, Apple Scab, Anthracnose, and Rhizosphaera Needle Cast. Treatment measures for fungal diseases include fungicides (as a last resort), cultural controls depending on tree species and plants, and biological controls like other fungi and bacteria.

Steps to Eliminating Fungal Diseases
Prevention is the best way to eliminate fungal diseases. So, choose plant and tree varieties known to be resistant to common fungal diseases in your region. These include Eastern Redbud, Serviceberry, Inkberry, American Holly, Red oak, Black Gum, and Sugar Maple. However, even these plants can contract fungal disease under the right conditions. Stress factors like drought, nutrient deficiencies, or insect damage can weaken plants and make them more vulnerable to fungal infections.
Below are some additional measures to help prevent fungal diseases from attacking your plants.
• Use proper planting techniques: Spacing is critical for fungal diseases. It allows for good air circulation and prevents overcrowding, which can favor fungal growth by creating
• a humid environment. Also, plant trees in suitable locations with appropriate sun and drainage.
• Watering practices: Water deeply and infrequently, aiming for the base of the plant or tree rather than overhead watering. This approach reduces moisture on leaves and stems while discouraging fungal growth.
• Mulching: This is a highly effective countermeasure for preventing fungal diseases. Spreading a layer of mulch around the base of your plants and trees will help you retain moisture in the soil, which is critical. Mulch also prevents excessive dampness near the stem, creating a less hospitable environment for fungi. Use a “breathable” mulch like shredded bark or wood chips as a medium for best results.
• Sanitation is key in preventing the spread of fungal diseases. Remove and dispose of diseased plant material promptly. Don’t compost diseased plant parts, as this can spread the spores. Also, clean and disinfect pruning tools regularly to prevent the spreading of fungal diseases between plants.
• Promote plant health: Ensure your plants and trees are healthy by giving them the nutrients they need through balanced fertilization. Healthy plants are more resilient and better able to resist fungal infections.
By following the steps provided above, you can create a healthier and more hospitable environment for your plants and trees.

Lessening the Impact of Fungal Diseases

Fungal diseases pose a real threat to trees and plants. They’re also a challenge to eliminate. Early detection also helps. By learning about fungal diseases, taking the proper countermeasures, and treating the diseases when they first appear, you can significantly lessen the impact of fungi on your trees and plants. Also, report suspicious symptoms you see to local authorities. If you need more help dealing with fungal diseases, talk with the experts at RI Tree. We’ll help you develop a strategy that works for you.

Cultivating Bonsai Trees: 8 Proven Tips to Help You Start this Fascinating Hobby

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Article.

by John Campanini, Technical Director, RITree Council

Have you ever thought about growing a bonsai tree? If you have, you’re not alone. Growing bonsai trees is a fascinating and rewarding hobby anyone can learn. They combine the beauty of nature with the art of cultivation. While we’ll probably never know the date of the first bonsai tree, it has a rich history dating back over two millennia in China, with Japan shaping the art form into what we know today, starting around the 11th century.

Bonsai’s growing popularity extends to New England, which has at least one well-respected nursery, New England Bonsai Gardens. Another source is Bonsai Outlet, which is headquartered in Massachusetts and serves the entire United States. It’s a trusted online source for Bonsai trees and supplies. Bonsai trees can live for centuries with proper care, making them heirlooms that can be passed from generation to generation. Studies suggest that interacting with plants can lower blood pressure and enhance mood.

This blog post talks about the essential steps to growing your Bonsai tree, from selecting the perfect tree to mastering the art of pruning and shaping.

Benefits of Bonsai Trees

Bonsai trees offer numerous benefits—from beautifying your home to fostering a sense of calm and more. Below, we list some of these benefits:

  • Reduces stress/Increases mindfulness
  • Improves air quality
  • Saves space
  • Focuses on long-term cultivation
  • Serves as a creative outlet
  • Provides a sense of accomplishment

Bonsai trees offer something other trees don’t. Put simply, they combine aesthetic appeal, stress reduction, and a connection to nature in one package. This combination makes them a highly rewarding addition to your home or hobby.

 

Tips on Growing Bonsai Tips

Growing bonsai trees can be challenging. It takes time and patience to shape the tree to your vision. But if you dedicate yourself to the project, you can develop a beautiful and robust tree. The tips below can help you start on the right foot.

  • Choose the right tree—If you plan to keep the tree indoors, select a species that thrives there. Ficus, juniper, and Schefflera are good choices for Bonsai trees. Consider the tree’s mature size, and then choose a pot accordingly. If you’re more interested in an outdoor tree, it’s best to choose one native to where you live.
  • Lighting—Bonsai trees need ample indirect sunlight. A lack of sunlight can cause weak foliage and other tree problems. These trees need 5 to 6 hours of sunlight, whether indoors or outdoors. South-facing windows are ideal in the Northern Hemisphere. Avoid harsh afternoon sun.
  • Watering—Bonsai trees come in small pots, so they dry up quickly. Water your bonsai trees deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch. But be careful. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Avoid letting the tree dry out completely.
  • Soil—Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix that allows for good aeration and prevents root rot. You can find pre-mixed bonsai soil at most gardening stores. Pumice mixed with organic mulches can make a good mix for young trees. A suitable mixture for most trees is Akadama, pumice, and lava rock in a 1:1:1 ratio.
  • Fertilizing—Bonsai trees need fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) but sparingly. Use a balanced bonsai fertilizer according to the package instructions. You can use solid or liquid fertilizer. The brand and type of fertilizer won’t make a difference. Just remember to apply smaller quantities than with regular plants.
  • Pruning—Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the size and shape of your bonsai. Prune leaves and branches throughout the growing season. Research proper pruning techniques for your specific species. You can start pruning bonsai trees as early as one to two years old after sprouting seeds or cuttings.
  • Repotting—Repot your bonsai every 2-3 years or when the roots become pot-bound. Use a slightly larger pot with fresh bonsai soil mix. Also, place a layer of soil in the pot before positioning. Remove the plant carefully from the pot. Use a rook hook or chopsticks to start untangling the roots, removing any excess soil as you repot.  
  • Wiring—You can use aluminum or copper wire to shape the branches of your bonsai tree. However, wiring should be done carefully to avoid damaging the bark. If you intend to wire the whole tree, work from the trunk to the branches. Then, start wiring the second branches. A rule of thumb is to use wires that are about 1/3 of the thickness of the branch you are wiring.

Bonsai trees provide beauty, tranquility, and a connection to nature. A rewarding experience growing bonsai trees can seem challenging at first. But with patience, dedication, and the tips described above, you can cultivate a tree that transforms your space for years.

Soil Testing: A Practical Guide to Ensure Your Trees Thrive

Written by John Campanini on . Posted in Tree Care.

Soil testing, a crucial step before tree planting, offers many benefits. It pinpoints nutrient deficiencies, reduces resource wastage, and reveals your soil’s pH level and nutrient needs, among other things. This knowledge is key to ensuring your tree or trees thrive. The optimal time for soil testing is a few weeks before planting.

You can test the soil with a home testing kit, readily available at garden centers and big box stores. Or, you can go to a soil testing lab like the University of Rhode Island’s Cooperative Extension. You can also go to private companies that offer soil testing services.
Tips on Soil Testing Yourself
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how to test your soil:

  1. Gather your tools—You’ll need a clean trowel or spade, a bucket, and a permanent marker. Wear gloves for ease of handling soil, and use a stainless steel or chrome-plated soil probe. Brass, bronze, or galvanized tools can contaminate samples with copper or zinc.
  2. Choose the testing method—Decide whether you’ll use a home test kit (faster but less accurate) or send a sample to a lab (more precise but takes longer).
  3. Target planting area—Collect samples from where you plan to plant your tree.
  4. Sample depth—Aim for 6-12 inches deep, where tree roots will establish. (If you’re testing soil for lawns, go 3 inches down.)
  5. Multiple samples—Take 10-15 samples in a zig-zag pattern to get a good representation of the area. Avoid areas with obvious signs of contamination or recent fertilization.
  6. Mix it up—In your clean bucket, combine all the collected soil samples and mix them thoroughly. Remove any large rocks or other non-soil particles from the soil.
  7. Sample amount—Depending on your chosen testing method, take the recommended amount of the composite sample (usually 1-2 cups) for testing. Label the container with your name, collection date, and intended planting area.
    Soil testing is a valuable tool that can help ensure your tree’s success. If you’re unsure about the process contact RI Tree. Our experts can provide the guidance and support you need to test your soil successfully.