American Elm
Ulmus americana, generally known as the American elm or, less commonly, as the white elm or water elm, is a species native to eastern North America, naturally occurring from Nova Scotia west to Alberta and Montana, and south to Florida and central Texas. The American elm is an extremely hardy tree that can withstand winter temperatures as low as −42 °C (−44 °F). Trees in areas unaffected by Dutch elm disease (DED) can live for several hundred years. A prime example of the species was the Sauble Elm, which grew beside the banks of the Sauble River in Ontario, Canada, to a height of 43 m (140 ft), with a d.b.h of 196 cm (6.43 ft) before succumbing to DED; when it was felled in 1968, a tree-ring count established that it had germinated in 1701.
For over 80 years, U. americana had been identified as a tetraploid, i.e. having double the usual number of chromosomes, making it unique within the genus. However, a study published in 2011 by the Agricultural Research Service of the USDA revealed that about 20% of wild American elms are diploid and may even constitute another species. Moreover, several triploid trees known only in cultivation, such as ‘Jefferson’, are possessed of a high degree of resistance to DED, which ravaged American elms in the 20th century. This suggests that the diploid parent trees, which have markedly smaller cells than the tetraploid, may too be highly resistant to the disease
Germination care – American elm seeds typically germinate shortly after they reach the ground, although seed may lay dormant until the following spring. Seeds can germinate under low light conditions although germination success increases under moderate light. Seeds can also persist in saturated environments for extended periods with little effect on germination. American elm seedlings can establish on a variety of substrates including – moist litter, moss, and decayed wood, however germination is most likely on mineral soil. Early development is best on moist soils but not saturated soils. As seedlings mature their drought tolerance increases and relative to other bottomland species they are intermediately tolerant to complete inundation.
Main benefits– A fibre obtained from the stems is used in making paper. The stems are harvested in spring, the leaves are removed and the stems steamed until the fibres can be stripped. The outer bark is removed from the inner bark by scraping or peeling. The fibres are cooked for 2 hours with lye and then beaten with mallets. The paper is beige in colour. The inner bark is very fibrous and is used in making string and strong ropes. The bark has been used to make various containers, including those used for gathering maple syrup. Wood – hard, strong, heavy, durable, coarse grained, shrinks moderately though it tends to warp and twist, it bends well and is difficult to split. The wood is very durable in water. It weighs 40lb per cubic foot and is harvested commercially for flooring, wheel hubs, cooperage, agricultural implements and many other uses.
Planting care– You can plant container-grown trees any time of year. Bare root, balled and burlapped elms are best planted in spring or late fall. Don’t amend the soil in the hole at planting time unless it is very poor. Add a little compost to the fill dirt for poor soils. Wait until next spring to fertilize an elm tree. Zone 3 – 9. Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained soil. Tolerances: Dry sites, Alkaline soil, Clay soil, Road salt.
When and where to plant + Ideal climate -Elms prefer full sun or partial shade and moist, well-drained fertile soil. They adapt to wet or dry soil as well. They make good street trees because they tolerate urban conditions, but keep in mind than planting an elm tree near sidewalks can lead to cracks and raised areas. Mulch the tree immediately after planting. Mulch helps the soil hold moisture and reduces competition from weeds. Use a 2-inch layer of light mulch such as shredded leaves, hay or pine needles. Use 3 inches of bark mulch. Water young trees weekly in the absence of rain.
Kiri – Royal Empress
Paulownia tomentosa (common names princess tree, empress tree, or foxglove-tree, is a deciduous tree in the family Paulowniaceae, native to central and western China. It is an extremely fast-growing tree with seeds that disperse readily, and is a persistent exotic introduced species in North America, where it has undergone naturalisation in large areas of the Eastern USA. P. tomentosa has also been introduced to Western and Central Europe, and is establishing itself as a naturalised species there as well.
Germination Care-Germination care Kiri seeds should be sown in late winter. The best method to get them to germinate is to allow light to reach the seeds while they are in a humid atmosphere. This is achieved by placing the seeds superficially on the germinator substrate and covering the container with transparent wrappings that allow light to pass through (such as plastic film). In this way, the water in the soil is conserved and the seedling that will come out of the seed is protected, after approximately two months. When the plant has finished germinating, the transparent wrap should be removed to acclimatize. The implantation to a new place must wait a week after this.
Planting Care-Trees of this species like places with direct sun exposure. They are not good competitors against taller plants and do not grow well in shady environments. They do not have strong nutritional requirements, although in rich soils their development can be accelerated. For its good growth, it is convenient for the soil to have good drainage capacity and to increase irrigation in summer to avoid dehydration, taking care not to create a puddled area where they are planted. In case of being transplanted to a place with predicted frosts, it is good to cover them in advance to avoid damaging the foliage.
Where to plant in the planisphere + Ideal Climate– The best time to plant a paulownia tree depends to some extent on your location. If your area has warm winters without freezing temperatures, you can plant a young tree any time during its dormant period, from late fall through winter and into early spring. In areas that experience hard freezes during winter, it’s best to plant a new tree in early spring; for example in late March or early April, when the soil can be worked but before the tree buds swell and turn green. Kiri can survive down to Zone 5 (may not flower), but thrives most favorably in Zones 7-10. Paulownia trees prefer a location that receives full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade, preferably in the afternoon in areas with hot summers. They also do well in urban locations where soil and air quality can be poor. Because of the tree’s large leaves, it’s best to choose a site protected from strong winds that could damage its foliage.
Main Benefits– Due to their high growth rate, Kiri trees can be used as reducers of environmental CO 2 and biomass generators for the manufacture of bioethanol and cellulose. The leaves can accumulate a large proportion of nitrogen, so they can be used as natural manure or as fodder for livestock. Kiri wood was widely used in Chinese carpentry to make instruments, furniture, and other items. Due to their colonizing and anti-soil erosion abilities, they can be used to restore deforested or damaged areas. Its ornamental use in public and landscaped trees is also widely spread.
Apple Tree
One of the most cold-hardy of apple varieties, Honeycrisp is a medium-to-large sized apple, with a light green/yellow background largely covered with red-orange flush with strong hint of pink if grown in good sunlight. The skin may be flecked with occasional russet dots, but tends to bruise easily, Ripening relatively early in September,. the apples keep until April in storage and retain their crispness. Interestingly, it appears that the flavor can improve for 7-10 days after being taken out of cold store. An excellent eating apple, can be used for cooking and baking. Hardy to -30°F Maximum Elevation: 8,500 ft.
Germination care– Apple trees need six or more hours of direct summer sun daily. They need well-drained soil, but should be able to retain some moisture. Light- to medium-textured soils are best. Water young trees regularly. Pest control measures will be an important part of care. Correct timing is critical to avoid harming the bees and pollination. If you wish to avoid pesticides, it’s possible though apple trees are the one of the most pest-susceptible fruits. For example, you can place paper bags around each apple of your tree, though this takes some time and labor. There are also organic pesticides.
Planting care– Apple trees need six or more hours of direct summer sun daily. They need well-drained soil, but should be able to retain some moisture. Light- to medium-textured soils are best. Water young trees regularly. Pest control measures will be an important part of care. Correct timing is critical to avoid harming the bees and pollination. If you wish to avoid pesticides, it’s possible though apple trees are the one of the most pest-susceptible fruits. For example, you can place paper bags around each apple of your tree, though this takes some time and labor. There are also organic pesticides.
When and where to plant + Ideal climate-Planting in the late winter or early spring is generally the best time to get your new fruit trees in the ground. Fruit trees struggle in heavy clay soil; poorly drained soils leads to root rot disease. Plant fruit in a location with good air circulation so leaves dry quickly after a rainfall or irrigation (or the tree risks fungal leaf diseases). It is not recommended to plant trees near wooded areas or trees.
Main benefits– The apple is a fruit rich in vitamins. It is the fruit of the apple tree, this tree is from the Rosaceae family. It is high in pectin, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, sodium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, and iron.
Honey locust
The Honey locust Tree is a symbol of beauty, tolerance, and protection. It’s name comes from the sweet legume found in the trees pods, which serve as a food source for wildlife. Aside from being used by wildlife and animal for food, the sweet legumes were also consumed by Native Americans as a food source.
Germination care– Pour boiling water over seed , let stand in water for 24 hours, repeat process on seed that did not imbibe. Sow seed 1/2″ deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed. Other: if boiling water treatment does not allow seed to imbibe, sulfuric acid treatment is required.
Planting care– From Spring until Fall, the Golden Locust Tree demands attention with its broad pyramidal crown and showy foot long leaves with its many leaflets. May through June brings yellow-green fragrant flowers. It will grow best in full sun, but will tolerate light or open shade. Once established, the tree is extremely drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil. It can grow up to 70 feet tall and 30 feet wide in areas with lots of sun and moderate moisture levels.
Where to plant + Ideal climate– Zones 4-9. It is adaptable to many different conditions and can be planted in areas to assist with windbreaks, and prevent erosion.
When to plant– it’s best to plant in spring or summer and avoid colder seasons
Main benefits– When growing in sandy areas this plant can enrich the soil by means of its nitrogen-fixing nodules, allowing other species to move in. On sandy soils black locust may also often replace other vegetation which cannot fix nitrogen. it grows best in bright sunlight and does not handle shade well.[8] It specializes in colonizing disturbed areas and edges of woodlots before it is eventually replaced with more shade-tolerant species.
Ginkgo
This ancient deciduous tree is easily recognized by its unique fan-shaped leaves that turn a deep yellow in the fall and pale grey bark. A very hearty species the Ginkgo makes a lovely bonsai especially in the city due to it being relatively pest free and pollution tolerant. An outdoor Bonsai, the Ginkgo requires winter protection in colder climates, store either in a garage, shed or bury.
Germination care– The seeds are kept clean between layers of wet sand for ten weeks at temperatures of 15 to 21ºC in order to allow the embryos to complete their development. Then it is recommended that these seeds spend a period of between 2 to 3 months at about 4ºC in stratification mode to achieve better germination.
Planting care– Ginkgo biloba will grow best in part to full sun and is a splendid tree for the urban landscape. It is highly tolerant of many soils, pH, salt, and pollution. However, do make sure it is well drained. It also does not tolerate over-watering well. When it is young, Ginkgo biloba should be pruned to form a central leader. Fortunately, Ginkgo biloba is not usually affected by any pests or diseases.
Where to plant + Ideal climate– Zones 3 to 8. Plant ginkgo biloba in an area that receives full sun to part shade.
When to plant– Most of the recommended cultivars of gingko biloba grow best in full sun in the North (partial sun in the South), have average water needs, and stand up well to pollution and road salt.
Malus Brandywine
An upright, spreading ornamental tree. Egg-shaped leaves are green with a reddish tint and turn maroon in fall. Fragrant, double, rose-pink flowers in spring mature to large green fruit in late summer. Fall color is as good a show as the flowers are in spring. Best planted in large open areas where fruit drop doesn’t matter. Perfect for farm or ranch properties. VERY HARDY & EASY TO GROW!
Hardy to -30°F, Maximum Elevation: 8,000 ft.
Germination care-A 6-inch diameter pot with drainage holes is sufficient for growing the crabapple seeds. Fill the pot up to 3/4 inch from the top with moist seed-starting mix and tamp it down so it’s firm in the container. After evenly spreading the seeds on the soil surface, cover them with a 1/2-inch layer of seed-starting mix. Lightly tamp down the soil and moisten it with a water-filled spray bottle. To promote soil moisture retention, stretch plastic wrap over the pot and periodically spray the soil with water. After germination sets in, remove the plastic wrap and place the pot near a sunny window. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to the upper compartment of the urn after the last frost date in your area. Outside, the crabapple seedlings require an area that has well-drained soil and about eight to 12 hours of direct sunlight exposure.
Planting care-The Brandywine Flowering Crabapple will perform best if you plant it in well-drained soil in a spot that receives full sun. As soon as you plant your tree, saturate it with water. If you live in a hot or dry area, water your Brandywine twice a week until it is established. Other climates can water once a week, achieving 1 inch of water each week. Once established, only water as needed during long periods of drought. Add a 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring each year if desired. No pruning is needed, but if done, choose winter or dry summer weather, to avoid the risk of disease. Some pests or diseases are possible, but they rarely cause serious problems, and this tree needs very little attention to be a centerpiece in your garden.
Where to plant + Ideal climate– Grow the Brandywine Crabapple Tree anywhere from zone 4 to zone 8 and even in zone 9. It thrives in any moist garden soil, and established trees have some drought resistance too. Avoid very wet places, and very alkaline soil.
When to plant– You can plant crabapples most any time the soil is workable. Bare-root trees need to be planted in early spring, but balled and burlapped or container grown trees can be planted in spring, summer, or fall.
Main benefits– Enchanting spring flowers: Fragrant, rose-colored double blossoms cover the branches in April and May. Summer foliage: Summer’s green leaves are tipped with brick-red, adding captivating contrast. Stunning fall show: Foliage turns reddish-orange and deep purple creating show-stopping value as the weather cools. Delightful crabapples: Appearing as early as late summer, these chartreuse-red crabapples are mesmerizing next to the warm leaves. Dazzling dormant winter interest: Silvery twigs create sculptural interest in the coldest months.
Leyland cypress trees
The tree—named after the man who first planted its seed—has found wide popularity because of its legendary salt tolerance, thriving where many other trees will not grow. It has also spawned a wide variety of cultivars designed to enhance its natural beauty.
Germination care-Cut 1/3 off of the top of a 1 liter plastic bottle, and then fill the bottom of the bottle with compost. Place three seeds on top of the compost in the bottle, and cover them with cover them with wet, shredded newsprint and place the top of the bottle back on the lower half, overlapping the edges slightly. Seal it with duct tape. Spread mulch on the soil to promote moisture retention. Keep the mulch several inches away from the stem of the seedling. Trim the seedling when it’s about 3 to 4 feet high and new growth is maturing on the tree.
Planting care– During the first growing season water the tree deeply once a week. Once it’s been in the ground a few months its root system will soon be large enough to keep it supplied with water and nutrients. To help its roots get established after spring or summer planting, water your Leyland cypress regularly. After a few months, apply 1 gallon a week to the rootball if you live in USDA zones 7 or 8 and 2 gallons a week if you live in USDA zones 9 or 10.
Where to plant + Ideal climate– The Leyland cypress can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 6–10.It grows well in a wide variety of soil and climate conditions
When to plant– You should plant Leyland cypress when the tree is dormant. Around six weeks before the first frost is the perfect time to plant, but it’s not critical; you can get your tree started any time the ground isn’t frozen, although planting when it isn’t dormant can stress the tree slightly.
Main benefits– This tree provides winter cover for songbirds and game birds. It also makes an excellent wind break. This sterile hybrid is produced in great numbers for use in Christmas tree plantations, in windbreaks, and along boundary lines. It also beautifies the landscape around homes, across campuses, and in parks.
Crape Myrtle Tree
Crapes don’t get any better when it comes to Natchez. Evaluated and released by the United States Department of Agriculture National Arboretum for its superior qualities, Natchez is the best of the best in tree-sized Crape Myrtles. Its proven overall performance in the landscape from the southern most region of Florida to hardiness range 7A has resulted in an undeniable status of distinction.
A member of the Indian Series, the best of the best earns its distinction aesthetically from a variety of traits. Its large pure white flowering panicles (6-12” long by 4-7 ½” wide) frequently last for more than 100 days. The extraordinary cinnamon brown exfoliating bark remains spectacular throughout the year. Natchez foliage is dark green and can turn from orange to brilliant red in the fall. When grown as a tree form, this cultivar is naturally vase shaped with uniform multiple branching for a moderately dense canopy.
Combine the outstanding aesthetic qualities of Natchez with its environmental strengths of great cold and heat tolerance, excellent resistance to powdery mildew, good resistance to Crape Myrtle aphids and it becomes clear why Natchez has been chosen the ‘Best of the Best.’ Natchez is clearly the undisputed king of Crape Myrtles.
Germination care– Crape myrtle seeds will germinate most any time, but they will do best in early spring when the days are lengthening. Soak the seeds in water, let stand in water for 24 hours. It does not require stratification. However, a brief cold period seems to induce germination. Sow seed 1/16″ deep, tamp the soil, lightly mulch the seed bed.
Planting care– Once established, water occasionally; more in extreme heat. Crape Myrtles should be watered deeply about 2 times per week after planting for about 3 months. After this establishment period, water deeply about once weekly when conditions are dry. Crape Myrtles are drought tolerant once established. Fertilize in early spring and when planting to give your tree a boost and help it achieve the best blooms. Crape Myrtles do not generally require pruning, but if needed, prune when they are dormant to remove any dead, dying, or crowded branches.
Where to plant + Ideal climate– Ideal planting in zones 7 – 10, 12 – 14, 18 – 21. We do recommend to avoid planting when temperatures are above 85 degrees. These trees prefer full sun, but can tolerate some shade and are adaptable to just about any soil as long as it is well-draining. The best plants are often located in irrigated landscapes.
When to plant– Late fall to early spring is the best time to plant. Watering well during the summer months is crucial to transitioning it into your garden. No matter when you plant, water your crepe myrtle well before putting it in the ground. This will help it take up water after planting.
Main benefits– The Natchez will delight you with hundreds of delicate white flowers from June to September. Especially since it’s a fast grower that delights all summer long. This tree also delivers unusual bark coloring of cinnamon on the trunk and stems, along with its smooth, sleek distinctive texture. This coloring gives you great winter interest with a brightness not found in most other trees during the cold season.
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