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Most golf course superintendents are great at growing and caring for turf, but many do not have the expertise and/or time for any sort of medium to large scale tree planting. Utilizing a qualified professional contractor is normally a prudent decision. In addition, because of the large scale of a golf course, management and superintendents should consider having larger trees installed with truck mounted tree spades. These trees make an immediate impact and are not lost within the large scale of a golf course. Professionally installed trees also normally come with a warranty.
Fall is the ideal season for planting trees because it encourages root growth through the winter to establish a firm underground foundation before the heat of the summer returns, says STIHL spokesperson and certified arborist Mark Chisholm. “The fall season naturally brings more rainfall and cooler temperatures, so your new tree will require less watering,” he says. “However, there is a time when it becomes too late to plant trees. Trees should be planted approximately four to six weeks prior to the first hard frost so the roots can actually penetrate the soil before the ground becomes too frozen.”
Although it is sometimes necessary to stake trees to keep them upright and allow establishment, there are some adverse effects of staking. Compared to staked trees, unstaked trees tend to develop a more extensive root system and better trunk taper. Allowing a small amount of movement can help root and trunk development. The most negative effect of staking is the possibility of trunk damage from the staking wires or ties. Staking materials usually should be removed after one year to avoid "girdling" the tree.
J. Kelly Lewis, general manager/partner of Maryland-based Ruppert Nurseries, Inc., says that newly planted trees need proper watering more than anything else, so irrigation carts, quick connects and water breaker nozzles are needed. For larger plantings, temporary irrigation heads or drip tubes can be used.
John Torsiello is a Torrington, Conn.-based writer and frequent GCI contributor.
