Re: Tree /plant recommendation for center divider
- To: medit-plants@ucdavis.edu
- Subject: Re: Tree /plant recommendation for center divider
- From: L* H*
- Date: Tue, 17 Aug 1999 16:59:13 +0300
The question posed by Nan is quite complex and should not be solved by suggesting
certain trees.
1. The area in question should be seen and the trees planted should blend into the
existing surroundings.
2. Choosing trees for divider areas and street uses is always problematic. Litter is
one problem for maintenance.
Trees with invasive or agressive root systems should be avoided since the area is
relatively small and trees with strong surface roots will eventually destroying curbs,
etc. ( There are mechanical and chemical solutions, but they cost. ) If cars will park
under the trees, do they produce a sap or fruit that stain or mar? Do birds frequent
the tree with the resulting residues? Does the tree atttract plant pests that produce
objectional substances? Is the tree brittle, shed branches (especially when older and
larger) which may cause damage? Is the tree adaptable to compacted areas, areas
of limited drainage, etc.
The number of factors that must be considered are many and varied. There is no
perfect tree and in the end the decision made will be a compromise.
Having qualified myself I would make the following suggestions. Choose a tree at
least of 2" calipher in order that the existing branch system be established and that
the first branches are more than 6 feet from the ground. If the tree comes from a
reputable source there should be no problem. Drive around the neighborhood and
verify the trees that are suceeding in similar situations. A tree that grows slowly
probably has a less aggressive root system according to studies conducted by the
International Society of Aboriculture. If a small to medium sized tree is acceptable
that probably might be you best choice. If you can go 9 to 12 feet, it is possible that
you might want to choose a shrub trained as a tree. California pepper trees are
probably to large for the situation that you describe. Perhaps a California native.
Larry Harris
3.
