TREE CARE
It ’ s important to note the percentage of tree roots covered by asphalt or concrete .
The right or left hand side of the enlarged bubble is a good location for each group and its associated needs . For example , Group C , the lilacs , would be headed with “ 7 Miss Kim Lilacs ,” susceptible to oyster shell scale , scout for that in May ; prune out the oldest stems after blooming ; don ’ t need much in the way of fertilizer . Group A would be described as “ Weeping Fig ,” inspect for mealybugs throughout the season ; fertilize lightly every two months ; keep roots moist , not soggy or dry with drip system . The expected benefits for each planting – such as shade for the bleachers or screening between fields – should be noted as well .
Assessment After each field is inventoried , the plantings need to be assessed as well . This essentially involves making a determination of their condition in terms of pest presence , need for pruning / rejuvenation , and stability . This is especially true in terms of moderate to large trees ; when neglected for even a short period of time , they can develop defects such as cracks , co-dominant leaders and poorly attached limbs . If assistance is needed to obtain this information , an ISA Certified Arborist can provide his or her expertise . In addition to overall condition , a Certified Arborist can recommend currently approved arboricultural practices that can stabilize a tree and make it safe for spectators to sit beneath ( nobody wants a limb falling on a soccer club booster ).
The Certified Arborist can also identify and evaluate the significance of any poor practices that have been conducted in the past . Ill-advised tree care practices – such as lion ’ s tailing , topping , flush cutting and long-term cabling / bracing – usually have long-lasting effects on a tree ’ s health , and increase the odds of tree failure and harm to people nearby . If the arborist recommends pruning , fertilization , pest control or removal , it ’ s wise to take their advice . ISA Certified Arborists , particularly those with Tree Risk Assessment Qualifications ( TRAQ ) can be a real asset in the overall management of a sports complex , and can greatly reduce liability from poorly maintained trees .
In addition to the individual trees and shrubs themselves , time and effort should be given to assessing the site as well . Factors such as soil drainage , slope , fertility , sunlight exposure , irrigation system efficiency and soil pH sportsfieldmanagementonline . com October 2021 | SportsField Management
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