RE: Schinus molle
- Subject: RE: Schinus molle
- From: C* J*
- Date: Tue, 23 Oct 2001 14:00:43 -0700
When I mentioned to a nursery man that I was putting my vegetables near a
pepper tree I was warned about using the leaves as mulch. But, like
yourself, I haven't found any other references, except to contact dermititis
in humans... The parts of the garden that get the litter seem to thrive,
particularly tomatoes (the herbalists mention anti-fungal, anti-bacterial
qualities for the Shinus). However, under the tree itself, the shade is
very dense, the litter is very deep, and I make sure not to water because
the pepper tree is susceptible to root rot (clay soil). They are considered
an invasive weed in Florida, and one of their listed flaws is shading out
the competition. In the year since I cleared the ground under the tree, an
inch to two inches of stuff has already accumulated: leaves, little
blossoms, unidentified detritus. The tree drips, drops and litters
constantly. My partner can count the amount of time I spent "gardening" in
the chair under the tree by the amount of trash in my hair, and uncovering
the plants near the edges of the canopy is a regular chore. But it is cool
and lovely in high summer.
Carol
L.A., two ridges north of the river.
-----Original Message-----
From: Ryan Gyurkovitz [r*@verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 9:46 AM
To: Medit newsgroup
Subject: Schinus molle
I have noticed that pepper trees (naturalized) don't seem to have any
understory growth beneath them apart from a few suckers or seedlings. Is
this because of allelopathy or merely the dense shade, heavy litter and
dry conditions? I have been checking my various reference books as well
as the internet and have been unable to locate any specific information.
Thanks in advance,
Ryan Gyurkovitz
34.5N Coastal California (Oxnard Plain)
