Why plant now? Lately I have heard many people say they were not
going to plant anything new this spring, and I have wondered why
that was.
Yes, it is true that new plants require more attention than
established plants. However many established plants might not make
it though the drought conditions this winter. Watering requirements
on many trees have not been met, causing the tree to become
stressed, which in turn correlates to insect and disease
problems.
In fact, wood that has been dried to become firewood actually
has more water than trees that are growing naturally in our
forests. Planting new trees will not only ensure you a green
future, but also enhance your landscape.
Water restrictions should not be a factor in whether or not you
plant trees. Water restrictions in Douglas County have not been so
drastic that plant needs cannot be met – outdoor watering has not
been shut off.
Seedling trees require less water than a 20-year-old established
tree but will still provide you an opportunity to plan for the
future.
The best time to plant a tree was 10 years ago. The next best
time is now, says the Colorado State Forest Service Web
site.
Trees are beneficial in so many ways but are often taken for
granted. They play a part in purifying air, modifying temperatures,
reducing noise pollution, improving aesthetic appeal and raising
real estate values. Seedling trees can be used for a number of
conservation practices such as windbreaks, living snow fences,
erosion control, wildlife habitat plantings and
reforestation.
The Colorado State University Cooperative Extension in Douglas
County hosts a seedling tree program. The program provides seedling
trees at a low price to residents. Some restrictions apply. You
must have two or more acres, use the seedlings for conservation
practices, and the seedlings cannot be resold as living
trees.
Seedlings are sold in lots of 50 for bare-root trees and lots of
30 for regular and large potted trees.
Many drought-tolerant species are available through the seedling
tree program.
Caragana an 8- to 12-foot high deciduous shrub is an excellent
drought-resistant plant and can tolerate alkaline soils and salts.
Another deciduous shrub, sumac, can grow up to 4 feet high and also
has alkaline tolerance and is drought tolerant. The sumac also
provides brilliant fall color and attracts birds with
berries.
The bur oak is a deciduous tree that is also very drought
tolerant. It can grow to 75 feet high and provides acorns, which
are a valuable food source for wildlife.
The Austrian pine can grow to 40 feet high and is an excellent
drought-resistant plant. It also provides wildlife with a food
source and is evergreen.
This is only a select few of the many drought-resistant plants
offered by the seedling tree program.
Order forms are available by calling (720) 733-6940 or visiting
the CSU Cooperative Extension Office at 410 Fairgrounds Road on the
Douglas County Fairgrounds.
Order forms are due by March 13. Some species might sell out, so
ensure the best plant selection by ordering early. Trees will be
available for pick up April 8-9 at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.
All proceeds benefit the Douglas County 4-H Youth
Council.
The money earned will allow 4-Hers to attend state and national
camps. It also provides scholarships to Douglas County
youth.
If you have inquiries regarding tree selection, windbreak
planting or general questions about the seedling tree program, call
the extension office.
Heather Clark is a horticulturist for the Colorado State
University Cooperative Extension Office in Douglas County.