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Be a professional tree shopperOn a recent visit to an outstanding nursery in Clinton, Okla., I had the chance to visit with the owner about his vast collection of trees. Everywhere I looked there was a new variety of tree or an unusual specimen that I never knew existed. I was literally like a kid in a candy store. We began to talk about tree selection, and always trying to please the customer. He said "I learned a long time ago to always pick the best tree I can for a customer, because the second best tree will always be the next best tree." He went on to say that he doesn't mind when a customer will pick out their own, because they often will pick one that he never would have selected as the best in the collection. So I asked him what strategy it was that homeowners use to select a tree. And the criterion that always wins out is the diameter of the trunk. While this may seem like an important factor, there really are several aspects that go into selecting a superior tree. With fall being an optimum time to plant trees, I thought it appropriate to review some selection tips. First begin with knowing the growth habit of the tree you are shopping for. The species of the tree will affect the ultimate shape of the tree. Keep that in mind when reading the following tips, as all of these can be affected by the specific type of tree.The structure of the tree should be the most important factor. Structure means the arrangement and angles of the branches. A desirable tree will have several scaffolds, or horizontal branches that come off of the trunk in a variety of directions. If all branches are radiating to one side the result will inevitably be a one-sided tree. It is also important that the branch angles resemble a right angle. This will provide for the strongest structure for the branch. If you are familiar with a 'Bradford' callery pear and its history of breaking limbs, you now know the reason. The narrow branch angles are too weak to support the weight of the limb, especially an ice covered limb. Imagine limbs that would be perfect for hanging a tree swing, and those are the kind of scaffolds to be desired. The next thing to look for when shopping for the perfect tree is the state of the trunk. It should have a strong straight line to it. If the main trunk comes to a 'V' at any point it is called a double leader and should be avoided. A central leader will give the tree the most stability in the long run. Be certain that there aren't any major wounds in the trunk as well. Sometimes trees can be damaged in shipment or in the nursery. If a tree has a stake in it, it is a good idea to remove it so you can inspect all sides of the trunk. Finally, inspect the root system if you can. Don't be afraid to pull the tree out of the pot and examine the roots. If it appears that the roots are swirling around the inside of the pot...run the other direction! Circling roots can be fatal to a tree. It may take 5 to 7 years, but the roots can actually strangle the tree. Purchasing a tree is a long-term investment. It is worth spending a little extra time up-front to ensure that your tree can have the longest life possible. When selecting a tree, remember to focus on the future. Just imagine how the limbs will look when those branches are 8 inches in diameter and casting a large shadow on the lawn. 10/8/07 Date: 10/2/07 Advertisement
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