Author: John Campanini

Boost Tree Health Now: Six Proven Strategies to Beat Drought Stress

Written by John Campanini on August 11, 2025. Posted in Blog, Plant Healthcare, Soil Care/Mulching, Tree Care.

July was hot, with the average daily high around 84°F (29°C). Several days in July reached the 90s or higher, with some even hitting 100. Rainfall averaged 5 inches, which can keep most soil moist, but still not enough for plants to survive and thrive. If this month is anything like August in other years, it could be just as hot as July, if not hotter.

History indicates that August tends to be at least several degrees hotter in Rhode Island than July. This month often records the highest summer temperatures of the year. By mid-month, plants could begin to show early signs of drought stress, which can negatively impact their growth and development. Combating drought stress can be a challenge.
Drought Stress Symptoms

Drought stress symptoms in plants include cupped and curled leaf edges, wilting of foliage, and new shoots less than a year old. Other signs are yellowing or browning leaves and early dropping of leaves or fruit. Drought-stressed plants may also show stunted growth and overall lack of vigor.

Drought stress also weakens a plant’s defense systems, making it vulnerable to secondary problems like Gypsy moths, root rot, and canker fungi. These “secondary invaders” are often the final cause of death for a distressed tree or plant. As a result, trees and shrubs may need extra watering to protect them from damage.

Challenges to Plants from Drought Stress

Drought stress poses significant challenges for tree care, impacting tree health and increasing susceptibility to other issues:

• Pests during this time include Bark Beetles, which are one of the most well-known groups of pests that capitalize on drought-stressed trees, especially conifers like pine, spruce, and fir. Weakened trees can’t produce enough resin to “pitch out” the beetles, allowing them to tunnel under the bark. Other pests to watch out for include Ambrosia beetles, scale insects and mites, and gypsy moth. (Spongy moth).

• Diseases to watch for include canker fungi, which appear sunken and dead areas on tree bark. Many fungi that cause cankers, such as Cytospora and Nectria, need a stressed host to infect successfully. Drought-induced bark cracking can also let these fungi enter. Also, watch for root rot, which can damage a tree’s root system and make it more vulnerable to various pathogens and vascular wilts, which can block a tree’s water transport system.

Six Steps to Battling Drought Stress
As a caretaker of trees, your role in combating drought stress is crucial for their long-term health and survival. Here are six critical steps you can take to make a significant difference:

Water deeply and infrequently: Trees are remarkably resilient. By providing a slow, thorough soak of the entire root zone, you encourage this resilience and enhance their long-term survival. Aim for about one inch of water per week from rain or irrigation. Remember, watering deeply once a week is better than giving shallow, frequent watering.
Mulch for moisture retention: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the tree’s base. Mulching helps the soil retain moisture, reduces evaporation, and suppresses competing weeds and grass. Keep the mulch a few inches from the tree’s trunk to prevent rot and pest issues.
Prioritize trees: Focus on watering your most valuable or vulnerable trees. This step includes newly planted trees (within their first 3-5 years) and mature trees that provide significant shade and are expensive to replace. Brown lawns will recover; dead trees won’t.
Avoid fertilizing: During a drought, a tree’s energy should focus on survival not growth. Applying fertilizer can stimulate new growth, which requires more water and can increase the tree’s stress. Wait to fertilize until the drought ends and the tree has recovered.

Stop pruning (except for deadwood): Avoid unnecessary pruning of live branches, as this creates wounds that require healing energy. This energy should be conserved during a drought to help the tree cope with stress and survive. Only prune to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as they can harbor pests and diseases.
Eliminate competition: Remove turfgrass and weeds from beneath the tree’s canopy. Grass and weeds directly compete with the tree for water and nutrients. Replacing this area with a layer of mulch is an effective way to support the tree.
Recently Installed Trees

Recently planted plants (up to 3 years after planting) require at least 10 gallons of water per week, which should be doubled for established plants. Additionally, to reduce water evaporation, irrigate either early in the morning or at dusk when the temperature is below the daily high.

Finally, trees and shrubs are nearing the end of their annual growth cycle. The last stage of this cycle involves developing the buds for next year (both vegetative and flowering). By the end of August, these new buds should be visible in the leaf axils, where the leaf attaches to the stem.
Be vigilant and watch for plant drought symptoms that appear when daily temperatures rise above 85°F for 3-4 days in a row or dry conditions persist for more than 10 days.

Need help combating drought stress? Contact RI Tree by phone (401) 764-5885 or email. Our experts can provide proven strategies to help your plants survive and thrive.

Unleash Your Property’s Potential: Top 7 Secrets For Planting Saplings Successfully

Written by John Campanini on July 21, 2025. Posted in Blog, Tree Care.

Planting saplings can be challenging. One consideration is how they’re delivered. Planting balled and burlapped (B&B) saplings differs from planting bare-root saplings. B&B saplings are dug up with a soil ball around their roots, which is wrapped to maintain its shape. This state provides immediate soil contact and helps reduce transplant shock. Bare-root saplings have no soil around their roots, exposing them, but are lighter and usually less expensive, making it easier to inspect the root system.
These secrets on planting saplings can significantly improve their survival rate and long-term growth:

Soak or dip bare roots: Avoid just briefly dunking bare roots. After soaking them for a few hours (no more than 24), dip them in a “root dip” product or a slurry of native soil and water before planting. This process helps coat the fine root hairs, preventing drying out during planting and ensuring immediate contact with soil particles, essential for nutrient and water uptake.
Create a “watering donut” or berm: Instead of just leveling the soil around the sapling, build a small circular berm (like a donut) of soil about 1-2 feet in diameter around the tree. This technique funnels water straight to the root zone and prevents runoff, ensuring the sapling gets adequate hydration, especially in the first few critical years.
Execute a “scratch test” for root ball girdling: Before planting, especially with containerized saplings, gently scratch the outer edge of the root ball. If you see roots circling aggressively around the perimeter, they are “girdling” and will eventually choke the tree. Untangling or pruning these roots encourages outward growth.
Consider mycorrhizal fungi inoculation: While often overlooked, inoculating the planting hole with mycorrhizal fungi can dramatically benefit saplings. These fungi form a symbiotic relationship with tree roots, significantly improving the tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil, especially phosphorus.
“Air pruning” for pot-bound roots (if applicable): If your sapling is in a grow bag or fabric pot, these containers naturally “air prune” roots, preventing circling. If transplanting from a traditional plastic pot, gently rough up the outer roots or make a few vertical cuts with a clean blade to encourage outward growth and prevent the roots from continuing their circling pattern in the ground.
Implement the “tilt test” for proper planting depth: When placing the sapling in the hole, hold it upright and then gently try to tilt it. If it feels stable and doesn’t easily flop over, the planting depth is likely correct. Ensure the root collar (where the roots meet the trunk) is at or slightly above ground level. Planting too deep is a common mistake that can suffocate the roots.
Prioritize “structural pruning” early on (if needed): While often associated with mature trees, a little strategic structural pruning in the first year or two can guide the sapling’s growth into a strong, well-formed tree. Focus on removing competing leaders, crossing branches, or weak angles to encourage a dominant central leader and sturdy scaffold branches. This effort isn’t about heavy pruning, but thoughtful shaping.
RI Tree To Give Planting Workshops

RI Tree recently signed a three-year contract with the Green Infrastructure Center and the RI DEM to provide arboriculture workshops in the municipalities of Central Falls, Newport, Pawtucket, Warren, and Westerly. The workshops, tentatively scheduled for August, will train volunteers to plant saplings and prune trees.

The workshops will cover the tree care principles published by the standards of the American National Standards Institute ANSI A300 Part 6—Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Maintenance-Standard Practices and Tree Planting Best Management Practices, a companion publication to ANSI A300.

Workshop Topics

The two-hour workshops will include planting two saplings—one container-grown (10 gallon) and one field-grown 1-1 ½ inch caliper, balled and burlapped. Topics covered in the workshops include:

Urban soil advantages/disadvantages
Nursery stock—types selection, handling
Common sapling structure defects
Proper use of training tools
Proper execution of pruning cuts
Root system evaluation
Planting hole preparation
Planting, mulching, and watering
Staking

RI Tree staff and consultants will conduct the workshops. For more information, contact RI Tree. Workshop dates are to be determined.

Five Sources to Help You Unlock the Secrets of the Miyawaki Method Now

Written by John Campanini on July 14, 2025. Posted in Blog.

by John Campanini
Technical Director, RI Tree Council

This is the last article in a series discussing the Miyawaki reforestation method. Developed by Akira Miyawaki, this method can transform degraded urban areas into thriving ecosystems.

The Miyawaki method is celebrated for its ambitious promise of rapid forest creation and ecological restoration. It “fast-tracks” the natural ecological succession process, rapidly creating complex, biodiverse, and resilient forests that mimic old-growth ecosystems in a much shorter time.

Miyawaki forests grow 10 times faster than traditional monoculture plantations or natural forest regeneration processes. They can reach a comparable level of maturity and ecological stability in just 20 to 30 years. More importantly, they become self-sufficient in two to three years.

But the method has its complexities and potential drawbacks. One of the main concerns, for example, is the significant initial investment of time and resources that the method requires. Another issue is the need to plant a high density of diverse, native seedlings, which can lead to high procurement costs.

Beyond financial and logistical challenges, there are ecological questions and practical limitations as well. Simply put, the method is expensive and labor-intensive. It’s not just about scattering seeds or planting widely spaced saplings—deficiencies inspired by the method should be aware of before starting a Miyawaki project.

The Miyawaki Method: A Closer Look

Below, we take a closer look at the Miyawaki Method, explaining the most critical disadvantages and challenges that it presents:

High initial costs and resource demands—such as soil preparation, sourcing a wide variety of native seedlings, and the intensive care (watering, weeding) needed in the first 2-3 years—make the Miyawaki method more costly and resource-intensive than traditional planting methods. So, it’s not just about planting saplings in the right spot.
Limited scientific evidence, especially in temperate climates—While the Miyawaki method has been successful in various tropical regions, ecologists are still testing, studying, and debating its long-term ecological effects, particularly in diverse climates like the Northeastern United States, including New England.
High potential for sapling death—The Miyawaki method is tough on young plants. Dense planting creates strong competition, which encourages quick growth but also causes many saplings to die during the process. Critics view the “waste” of seedlings as a flaw in the method.
Limited genetic diversity—this point is debatable. Although species diversity is high, some ecologists argue that the small number of individual trees of each species in a limited area could lead to reduced genetic diversity within those species, which may affect their long-term adaptability.
Aesthetic and accessibility issues: The dense structure of Miyawaki forests can restrict human access and movement, which may make them less ideal for recreational areas that require open space.
Suitability for large-scale projects: Because of the resource intensity and careful planning needed, the Miyawaki method might not be practical or cost-effective for very large afforestation efforts covering thousands of acres, where broader-scale restoration methods could be more suitable.
Risk of pests and diseases (paradoxically): While diversity provides benefits, high density can increase the risk of rapid spread for certain pests or diseases if conditions are highly favorable to them. Careful monitoring is essential, especially at the start.
Not a Replacement for Old-Growth Forests: While effective at quickly creating new forests, Miyawaki forests are still young and cannot immediately match the complex ecological functions and large carbon storage capacity of centuries-old, mature forests. Therefore, ecologists and experts see them as a supplement to, not a replacement for, protecting existing ancient woodlands.

Simply put, the Miyawaki Method is a powerful approach for fast, localized, and diverse reforestation. It works especially well in urban and damaged areas. Its success relies on careful planning, following native species diversity principles, and early dedicated care. However, its higher initial costs and the need for more long-term research across different climates are important factors to keep in mind.

Information Sources on the Miyawaki Method

Below are five information sources about the Miyawaki method that are generally accessible and easy for laymen to understand. You can also contact RITree for more information.

· SUGi Project Website

This online, easy-to-navigate website (sugiproject.com) offers a visually appealing and clear explanation of the Miyawaki method. It breaks down the process into four easy-to-understand stages. It uses straightforward language and includes photos that illustrate the rapid growth.

· Creating Tomorrow’s Forests

This site provides a concise overview of the method’s principles, history, and benefits. It emphasizes the “why” behind the techniques (e.g., high density for competition) in an understandable way, avoiding overly technical jargon.

· JSTOR Daily

While JSTOR is an academic archive, its “Daily” section often features articles written for a broader audience. This article (daily.jstor.org) provides a good narrative of Dr. Miyawaki’s work and the core techniques, including engaging anecdotes and explanations of concepts like “potential natural vegetation” in simple terms. It’s often free to read.

· Canadian Geographic

This article (canadiangeographic.ca), which provides engaging visuals, offers a relatable perspective by discussing Miyawaki forests being planted in backyards and urban spaces. It uses descriptive language and focuses on the tangible benefits (e.g., noise absorption, cooling) in an accessible way. It also touches on the community involvement aspect.

· Urban Forest

This website is from an organization actively implementing Miyawaki forests. The site provides a very direct and clear explanation of the method’s principles and benefits. It’s designed to inform the public about their projects and the underlying science, using simple language and a Q&A format.

How to Transform Barren Land into Self-sustaining Forests10 Times Faster than Traditional Methods

Written by John Campanini on June 24, 2025. Posted in Blog.

by John Campanini, Technical Director, RI Tree

This article is the first in a series about the Miyawaki Method of reforestation—a revolutionary tool for combating climate change and restoring degraded landscapes.

The urgent need to restore forests has never been greater, largely due to climate change and biodiversity loss. Traditional tree-planting efforts, however, can seem like a losing battle. These plantations typically grow slowly and require extensive, long-term maintenance, such as watering and weeding, making them costly and resource-intensive.

These plantations often focus on timber production rather than ecological restoration and may experience low sapling survival rates due to poor soil conditions or inadequate adaptation to the local environment. Enter the Miyawaki Method of reforestation.

This method is an innovative approach to reforestation that’s quickly gaining popularity worldwide. Named after its creator, Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, this method emphasizes planting trees and creating entire ecosystems that mimic the complex processes of a natural forest.

Dr. Miyawaki’s technique speeds up this natural development, turning barren land into lush, self-sustaining forests up to 10 times faster than traditional reforestation methods. In short, it’s a way to grow a thriving, diverse forest in just a few years—a forest that actively fights climate change and restores wildlife.

How Does the Miyawaki Method Work?

How does the Miyawaki Method work? Start by examining the land and gaining a comprehensive understanding of it. Your goal is to analyze the soil to identify the native tree species that will thrive there. We’re not talking about importing exotic trees; instead, we’re focused on restoring the local ecosystem’s unique botanical heritage. A wide variety of species—often 30 to 50 different types—are selected, ensuring a diverse and vibrant ecosystem from the beginning.

Next, you need to prepare the soil for this innovative reforestation effort—a vital step to succeed with the Miyawaki Method and often overlooked. Just as a strong foundation is essential for a sturdy building, healthy soil is crucial for a thriving forest. Organic matter, such as compost and natural mulches, can be added to improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. The aim is to create the ideal environment for young trees to establish themselves quickly.

Next comes dense planting. Trees are planted close together, often with three to five saplings per square meter. This process stiumlates intense competition for sunlight, forcing young trees to grow upwards rapidly. That accelerates their development. Their intertwining root systems also establish a strong, stable network that shares nutrients and water underground. Above ground, the dense canopy quickly forms, creating a unique microclimate that reduces water evaporation and encourages the growth of other forest floor vegetation.

The initial years often require some dedicated care, primarily ensuring the saplings receive enough water and are protected from weeds. After just two to three years, however, the forest becomes highly self-sufficient, needing minimal human intervention. The results are nothing short of astounding. Miyawaki forests grow approximately ten times faster than conventional plantations. What might take a traditional forest 100 years to achieve in terms of density and biodiversity, a Miyawaki forest can accomplish in just a decade.
Principles Behind the Miyawaki Method
Unlike large-scale reforestation projects that require vast tracts of land, Miyawaki forests can be planted on surprisingly small plots – from neglected urban corners and industrial sites to schoolyards and community gardens. That makes the method a perfect solution for localized, community-driven environmental initiatives.
The science behind the Miyawaki Method includes:

• Competition for light drives vertical growth.
• Root systems intertwine, sharing nutrients and water.
• Microclimates created by dense canopies reduce evaporation.
• Creating a rich ecosystem from the outset.
• Attracting diverse flora and fauna quickly.
• Enhancing soil health and microbial activity.
• Increasing resistance to pests, diseases, and climate extremes.

Miyawaki Projects in Rhode Island

The examples below demonstrate a growing interest and implementation of the Miyawaki Method throughout New England, particularly in urban areas, to address climate change, enhance biodiversity, and create green spaces.

Providence, RI (Pearl Street Garden): As of May 2025, a Miyawaki micro forest has been planted in the Pearl Street Garden in Providence’s South Side. This 1,000-square-foot area saw the planting of 260 native trees and shrubs.
Providence, RI (Prairie Avenue): Groundwork Rhode Island also recently planted the city’s first micro forest on Prairie Avenue in South Providence, utilizing the Miyawaki Method.

These examples show the growing interest and implementation of the Miyawaki Method throughout New England, particularly in urban areas, to address climate change, enhance biodiversity, and create green spaces. Organizations like Biodiversity for a Livable Climate actively promote and facilitate these projects across the region.

The Miyawaki Method isn’t just a new planting technique. It testifies to the power of understanding and imitating nature. Creating dense, diverse, and rapidly growing native forests is a tangible and highly effective solution to some of our most pressing environmental challenges. Embracing and expanding the Miyawaki Method holds immense potential to reforest our planet, one vibrant, biodiverse mini-forest at a time.

In the next article, we’ll explore the benefits of the Miyawaki method more deeply and look at some of its pros and cons. For more information on this reforestation method and tips on how you can help implement it, contact RI Tree.

Addressing Winter Damage: 7 Ways to Get Your Property in Shape Now

Written by John Campanini on June 12, 2025. Posted in Arbor Day, Seasonal, Tree Care.

This winter left a lot of damage in its wake. Trees and shrubs bore the brunt of this year’s winter. Spring is the ideal time to clean and prepare your property for the warmer months. The key is to closely review the landscape and assess trees and plants for structural damage. When doing so, inspect the entire tree or shrub for any damage. It will save you time and money.

Here are seven tips to help you get your property in shape:

Clear out winter debris: Start by removing leaves, twigs, fallen branches, and other accumulated debris from your lawn, garden beds, and hardscapes like patios and walkways. This exercise helps prevent diseases and allows air and sunlight to reach your grass and plants.
Prune and trim: Inspect your trees and shrubs for dead, damaged, or overgrown branches from winter. Prune these back to encourage new, healthy growth. For spring-blooming shrubs, wait until after they’ve flowered to avoid removing this year’s blooms. You can also trim back dead perennial foliage and ornamental grasses.
Prepare garden beds: Clear out old annuals and dead plant matter from your garden beds. Amend the soil with compost or other organic materials to replenish nutrients and improve drainage. This step creates a nourishing foundation for new plantings.

Address your lawn: Not everyone has a lawn. If you do, do the following:
• Rake
• Aerate
• Fertilize
• Control weeds
• Overseed bare spots
Inspect and clean hardscapes: Power wash your patios, decks, driveways, and walkways to remove dirt, grime, and mildew that may have accumulated over winter. Also, check wooden structures like decks and fences for any rot or damage and make necessary repairs.
Check gutters and drainage: Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are debris-free and can properly direct water away from your home’s foundation. Inspect the grading around your house to confirm it slopes away, preventing water from pooling.
Prepare outdoor equipment: Get your lawnmower and other gardening tools ready. Sharpen blades, check oil levels, and ensure everything is in good working order. This activity will make your spring clean-up tasks much easier and more efficient.

Common Spring Pests and Diseases

Spring in New England brings a flush of new growth and the emergence of various pests and diseases that can impact your plants. Being vigilant and knowing what to look for can help you address issues early. Here are some common pests to watch for in New England during the spring:

Common Pests:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects come in various colors and suck sap from new growth, causing leaves to curl, yellow, or distort. Look for them on the undersides of leaves and new shoots.
Eastern Tent Caterpillars: You’ll see their distinctive silken “tents” in the crotches of trees like cherry, apple, and crabapple. The caterpillars emerge in early spring and can defoliate branches.
Winter Moth Caterpillars: These small, green loopers emerge in early spring and feed on buds and new leaves of a wide range of deciduous trees, including maples, oaks, and fruit trees. They can cause significant defoliation. See photo below

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: A serious invasive pest of hemlock trees. In spring, you’ll see small, white, cottony masses at the base of hemlock needles on the twigs. These insects suck sap and can severely weaken or kill hemlocks.

Spider Mites: Though tiny, spider mites can cause stippling (tiny yellow or white dots) on leaves, especially on evergreens and stressed plants. In severe cases, you might see fine webbing. They thrive in dry conditions.

Common Diseases:

Apple Scab: A prevalent fungal disease of apple and crabapple trees. Look for olive-green to brown spots on leaves and fruit. Infected leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely.
Anthracnose: A group of fungal diseases affecting many deciduous trees. Symptoms include irregular brown spots on leaves, often concentrated along veins, and can lead to twig dieback and defoliation, especially during cool, wet spring weather.
Powdery Mildew: Appears as white, powdery patches on leaves, stems, and sometimes flowers. While often more prevalent later in the season, it can emerge in spring on susceptible plants when conditions are humid.
Cedars/junipers and apple/crabapple trees: In spring, bright orange, gelatinous galls may appear on cedars, releasing spores that infect apple and crabapple leaves, causing yellow-orange spots.

Also, be careful about ticks and mosquitoes. While not plant pests, spring is when these nuisance insects become active and pose health risks to humans and pets in New England. Take precautions when spending time outdoors.

For more information on pests and diseases in New England, contact our experts at RITree.org.

Addressing Winter Damage: 7 Ways to Get Your Property in Shape Today

Written by John Campanini on June 12, 2025. Posted in Blog.

Here are seven tips to help you get your property in shape:

Clear out winter debris: Start by removing leaves, twigs, fallen branches, and other accumulated debris from your lawn, garden beds, and hardscapes like patios and walkways. This exercise helps prevent diseases and allows air and sunlight to reach your grass and plants.
Prune and trim: Inspect your trees and shrubs for dead, damaged, or overgrown branches from winter. Prune these back to encourage new, healthy growth. For spring-blooming shrubs, wait until after they’ve flowered to avoid removing this year’s blooms. You can also trim back dead perennial foliage and ornamental grasses.
Prepare garden beds: Clear out old annuals and dead plant matter from your garden beds. Amend the soil with compost or other organic materials to replenish nutrients and improve drainage. This step creates a nourishing foundation for new plantings.

Address your lawn: Not everyone has a lawn. If you do, do the following:
• Rake
• Aerate
• Fertilize
• Control weeds
• Over seed bare spots
Inspect and clean hardscapes: Power wash your patios, decks, driveways, and walkways to remove dirt, grime, and mildew that may have accumulated over winter. Also, check wooden structures like decks and fences for any rot or damage and make necessary repairs.
Check gutters and drainage: Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are debris-free and can properly direct water away from your home’s foundation. Inspect the grading around your house to confirm it slopes away, preventing water from pooling.
Prepare outdoor equipment: Get your lawnmower and other gardening tools ready. Sharpen blades, check oil levels, and ensure everything is in good working order. This activity will make your spring clean-up tasks much easier and more efficient.

Common Spring Pests and Diseases

Common Pests:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects come in various colors and suck sap from new growth, causing leaves to curl, yellow, or distort. Look for them on the undersides of leaves and new shoots.
Eastern Tent Caterpillars: You’ll see their distinctive silken “tents” in the crotches of trees like cherry, apple, and crabapple. The caterpillars emerge in early spring and can defoliate branches.
Winter Moth Caterpillars: These small, green loopers emerge in early spring and feed on buds and new leaves of a wide range of deciduous trees, including maples, oaks, and fruit trees. They can cause significant defoliation. See photo below

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: A serious invasive pest of hemlock trees. In spring, you’ll see small, white, cottony masses at the base of hemlock needles on the twigs. These insects suck sap and can severely weaken or kill hemlocks.
Spider Mites: Though tiny, spider mites can cause stippling (tiny yellow or white dots) on leaves, especially on evergreens and stressed plants. In severe cases, you might see fine webbing. They thrive in dry conditions.

Common Diseases:

Apple Scab: A prevalent fungal disease of apple and crabapple trees. Look for olive-green to brown spots on leaves and fruit. Infected leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely.
Anthracnose: A group of fungal diseases affecting many deciduous trees. Symptoms include irregular brown spots on leaves, often concentrated along veins, and can lead to twig dieback and defoliation, especially during cool, wet spring weather.
Powdery Mildew: Appears as white, powdery patches on leaves, stems, and sometimes flowers. While often more prevalent later in the season, it can emerge in spring on susceptible plants when conditions are humid.
Cedars/junipers and apple/crabapple trees: In spring, bright orange, gelatinous galls may appear on cedars, releasing spores that infect apple and crabapple leaves, causing yellow-orange spots.

For more information on pests and diseases in New England, contact our experts at RITree.org.

Use These 7 Hacks to Combat Deforestation, Promote Forest Health Now

Written by John Campanini on May 12, 2025. Posted in Blog, Tree Care.

New England forests are in trouble. They’ve been losing ground since the 1980s. Over 385,000 acres (over 950,000 hectares), or 5% of the region’s total forest area, were lost between 1985 and 2011. This is the opposite of the historical trend of forest growth and is a critical threat to New Englanders and their region. Simply put, New England forests face many threats, including deforestation and threats to their health and biodiversity.
Residential and commercial development, including secondary and larger single-family homes, commercial buildings, and several other economic factors, is driving New England’s deforestation. While these projects may be small, their cumulative impact on the landscape results in significant deforestation. These “hard conversions” are often permanent and prevent natural forest regeneration in that area. But you can fight deforestation in your community.

Additional Threats to Forest Health and Integrity
As mentioned above, urbanization poses the greatest threat to forests, but several other dangers exist beyond deforestation. Climate change serves as a stressor that alters growing seasons, affects precipitation patterns, shifts species ranges, and triggers extreme weather events. All these factors impact forests. Additional threats include invasive species, insect pests, diseases, overpopulation of deer, competition in the timber market, and land development and fragmentation.
The consequences of forest loss and degradation from these factors ripple through our human communities. They reduce carbon sequestration, stress the forest’s carbon balance, and erode ecosystem services, including the loss of clean air and water filtration, reduced flood control, negative impacts on wildlife habitat and biodiversity, and decreased recreational opportunities and aesthetic value. Additionally, they impact critical industries such as maple syrup, timber, tourism, and the loss of native flora and fauna.
Growth of Solar Spurs Deforestation

Today, Rhode Island forests cover about 53-60% of the state, down from historical levels when early settlers cleared land for agriculture. After a period of forest regrowth, this trend has reversed, with development pressures leading to a net loss of tree cover. Between 2000 and 2020, the state lost 0.79% or 1.61 thousand hectares of tree cover. More recent data shows that in 2023 alone, Rhode Island lost 343 hectares of natural forest, equivalent to 142 kilotons of CO2.
While land development is a big factor in the state’s deforestation, the growth of solar energy is of growing concern. While these farms increase the state’s renewable energy, they also reduce the amount of mature forest. Losing mature forest is costly and impacts the state’s forest carbon sequestration as well as air and water filtration. Additionally, the loss of mature forest contributes to habitat fragmentation, which affects wildlife that rely on large, connected forest areas. Conservative groups continue to advocate for solar farms on previously developed land.

Promoting Forest Health in New England
Here are seven things you can do to fight deforestation and promote forest health in your area:

Support local conservation efforts—Engage with and contribute to local land trusts, conservation organizations, and other groups working to protect forests. Volunteer time, donate funds or even become a member can directly support these efforts.
Practice sustainable woodland management. If you own forested land, work with a professional forester to develop a plan for long-term forest health. Sustainable forestry ensures that timber harvesting doesn’t lead to long-term forest degradation.
Make sustainable consumption choices—Choose wood and paper products certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures they come from responsibly managed forests.
Support local and sustainable businesses—Support businesses that prioritize sustainability and have environmentally responsible practices. This can include businesses that source materials locally and sustainably and minimize their environmental footprint.
Advocate for stronger land use policies—Engage in local and state politics to support policies that protect forests and promote responsible land use. Contact your elected officials to express your support for zoning regulations.
Manage invasive species on your property/community—Learn to identify common invasive species in your area and take action on your property. Early detection and rapid response are critical to managing these threats.
Educate yourself and others—Increase your knowledge of the threats to New England’s forests and the importance of forest conservation. Share this with friends, family, and your community.
Joining the Rhode Island Tree Council (RITree) can help protect the state’s forests. RI Tree offers courses, workshops, and materials to help fight deforestation and promote forest health in your area.

Turbocharge Your Trees: 3 Simple Hacks for Breathtaking Growth!

Written by John Campanini on March 17, 2025. Posted in Blog.

Trees can adapt to many different local conditions. That can greatly affect tree growth, especially in New England. Seasonal changes, for example, in winter and summer in our area, can dramatically impact tree growth in urban areas. The right factors in the right amounts can drive tree growth. They’re critical factors in tree development. Their interplay creates the character of New England’s forests.

This article will explore how conditions in New England can impact tree growth and how trees thrive in harsh conditions. By looking at these strategies, we can better understand the balance of urban forest ecosystems and their challenges. Understanding how these factors affect tree growth is key to much forestry and ecological studies.

Thriving in Many Climates and Conditions
Trees can adapt to many climates and conditions. These adaptations can be categorized as morphological (structural), physiological (functional), and phenological (timing of life events). Light intensity, water availability, and temperature are physiological conditions and key factors that impact tree growth. Here’s how these factors impact tree growth in our area:
• Light intensity—New England’s tall buildings and dense urban structures cast long shadows over trees, killing the direct sunlight these plants need. This is especially problematic in narrow streets and courtyards, where trees may get only a few hours of direct sunlight daily. This can disrupt the consistent light exposure needed for optimal photosynthesis and limit tree growth.
Trees adapt to low-light conditions by changing their morphology. They may develop larger, thinner leaves to capture more light or initiate etiolation, a phenomenon where stems elongate and foliage is sparse. This change, however, makes trees weaker and more prone to damage. Trees in heavily shaded urban areas may grow slower and produce fewer leaves.
• Water availability—Water is crucial to tree growth. It can fuel tree growth. Less water, however, can stunt tree growth. Chronic water problems can limit development and shorten their lifespan. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns in New England, with projections showing more frequent and intense rainfall and periods of drought, making trees more susceptible to pests and disease.

Trees with less water may close their stomata to conserve water and limit photosynthesis. Some trees may prioritize root growth to access water deeper in the soil profile. Others may develop smaller, thicker leaves with waxy cuticles to reduce water loss or shed leaves early to conserve water during dry periods.

• Temperature—The freeze-thaw cycle in New England affects the length of the growing season and the timing of key tree events like budburst and leaf fall. The cycle also hurts tree growth. Meanwhile, climate change brings warmer temperatures and longer growing seasons to our area. While this may initially benefit some tree species, it also creates challenges.

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

Written by John Campanini on February 24, 2025. 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 February 24, 2025. 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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.