THE BUCKEYE - Ohio Chapter ISA
Transcription
THE BUCKEYE - Ohio Chapter ISA
7 6 13 14 16 5 Mark Your Calendar 1 Tree Planting Guide PAGE 2 Tree Fund Update Earn CEU’s at Home PAGE 14 PAGE 17 PAGE 5 THE BUCKEYE Arborist VOLUME 46, NO. 5 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture www.ohiochapterisa.org Meet the Member Please meet Laurie Skul, a senior financial analyst with The Davey Tree Expert Company. Soon, Laurie will replace Beth Buchanan as the Ohio Chapter’s TREE Fund Liaison and Team Ohio Captain. Laurie has been under Beth’s wing now for about a year; she looks forward to continuing the momentum and enthusiasm for Ohio’s fundraising efforts. Laurie was born in Akron, grew up in Bay Village and currently lives in Canton. She has a double major in Computer Information Systems and Economics. Laurie returned to college as a “nontraditional student” when she was in her late 30s and currently holds two Masters Degrees – an MBA in Finance and a Masters in Arts in Economics. In addition to her work at Davey, she teaches Economics at Kent State University. When asked about her favorite tree and why, Laurie stated, “I have three civil war era sugar maples on a property I own on Middle Bass Island. They are just BEAUTIFUL trees – especially in the fall! I hug them every chance I get!” It was by pure happenstance that she stumbled into a job at Davey Tree right at the same time she decided to get back on her bike after a 20 year hiatus. Davey Tree led her to the Stihl Tour des Trees, which led her to the TREE Fund which led her to her association with the Ohio Chapter. She became a member of the Ohio Chapter in 2013 when she rode her first Tour des Trees. The Meet the Member Cont. on page 3 President’s Branch By Shirley Vaughn Fall is a season for change. With the arrival of cooler temperatures and falling leaves, schedules start to get hectic and the challenge of making time for your priorities, such as being there for your children’s after school activities, completing work planned for the day or week, and taking a moment to relish the Ohio’s beautiful fall color are more difficult. Fall also marks a season of change for the Ohio Chapter. Several of our Board members, me included, are reaching the end of our terms. However, every end is a new beginning, and we are actively searching for candidates to run for the Ohio Chapter Board. The Ohio Chapter has been fortunate over the years to have a steady supply of individuals willing to step up and volunteer their time for the betterment of the profession. Many of our past and present Board members were recruited by the Chapter’s Leadership Development Committee (LDC), which consists of our Chapter president, vice president, and past president. However, not all of our leaders were recruited by the LDC; some volunteered to run for the Board. I was one of those people who volunteered to run for a position on the Board. In other words, I nominated myself. Did you know you could do that, nominate yourself to run for the Ohio Chapter’s Board of Directors? Well, you can, and if you are interested in running for the Chapter’s Board, I encourage you to contact us. President’s Branch Cont. on page 3 THE BUCKEYE ARBORIST Publisher Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture 1100-H Brandywine Blvd. Zanesville, OH 43701-7303 Phone: (614) 771-7494 Fax: (740) 452-2552 Email: [email protected] Website: www.OhioChapterISA.org Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture 2015-2016 Board of Directors Shirley Vaughn, President Davey Tree Expert Co. Kent, OH Richard Rathjens, Vice President Davey Tree Expert Co. Kent, OH Tom Munn – Treasurer City of Hudson Hudson, OH Danny Bagwell Pioneer Electric Cooperative Piqua, OH Joe Boggs OSU Extension Liberty Twp., OH Brad McBride Davey Resource Group Kent, OH Jennifer Milbrandt City of Strongsville Strongsville, OH Craig Schaar City of Toledo Toledo, OH Samantha Simmons Phoenix Tree Care Columbus, OH Joe Russell – Past President Russell Tree Experts Worthington, OH 2 Editor Dixie Russell, CMP, Executive Director Ohio Chapter ISA Contributing Editors Chad Clink, Community Forester The Holden Arboretum Jennifer Milbrandt, City of Strongsville Thomas Munn, City of Hudson Charles Owen, City of Brecksville Dixie Russell, Ohio Chapter ISA Shirley Vaughn, The Davey Tree Expert Co. Mark Webber, Board Certified Master Arborist Proofreading Editor John Siefer, Davey Tree Expert Co. Articles Submit articles in Word format to the Editor at [email protected] for consideration. All articles are subject to technical review. Accepted articles may be edited for brevity, clarity and adherence to Chapter requirements and standards. Submissions must contain original work. An ISA Certified Arborist in good standing may receive CEUs for work published in The Buckeye Arborist. Advertising Acceptance and publication of advertisements, editorial copy or product announcements do not necessarily imply Ohio Chapter ISA’s endorsement of said products or techniques, nor does it reflect the opinion of the Chapter regarding any such product or technique. The Buckeye Arborist reserves the right to refuse any advertisement that is deemed unsuitable for publication. For advertising reservations and material deadlines, rates and data – as well as other Ohio Chapter ISA sponsorship and messaging opportunities – please contact the Ohio Chapter at info@ OhioChapterISA.org. Mark Your Calendar October 3 Ohio Tree Climbing Championship Cincinnati Zoo October 27 TRAQ Dayton, OH November 10 ISA Exams Youngstown, OH December 2-5 ASCA Annual Conference Tucson, AZ February 23-26, 2016 ASCA Consulting Academy Napa, CA February 28-March 1, 2016 Ohio Tree Care Conference Sandusky, OH August 13-17, 2016 ISA Annual Conference Fort Worth, TX Visit www.OhioChapterISA.org/Events for complete details on each event. Ohio Chapter ISA The Mission of the Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture is to advance responsible tree care practices through research, technology and education, to promote the benefits of trees. The Ohio Chapter Values investing in the future of professional arboriculture through education, research, safety and communication, while maintaining integrity and credibility. The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 President’s Branch Cont. from Cover People volunteer for different reasons. Some want to make an impact in their professional community, change the status quo, or have their voice heard. Others volunteer to stay busy, challenge themselves, develop new skills, be part of a team, or because they were asked. Whatever the reason, donating your time, knowledge, and skills to an organization will benefit you as well as the organization. Chapter service does involve a level of commitment, but it is rewarding, a great networking opportunity, and fun. Personally, I am glad I nominated myself to run for a position on the Ohio Chapter Board, and I am proud that my peers elected me to serve. My past three and a half years of Board service have been filled with discussions and debates about what educational programs and networking opportunities the Ohio Chapter can offer. What should be posted on the Chapter’s Facebook page, how we can grow arboriculture as a career, and ensuring safety is a priority. For me, serving on the Ohio Chapter’s Board of Directors has been challenging and fun. I have increased my network and knowledge, learned to look at the big picture, and not once have I been bored. If you are interested in being more active in the Ohio Chapter, please reach out to our Executive Director Dixie Russell at drussell@offinger. com or me at [email protected]. The Chapter also has committees including the Education and Public Outreach, OTTC and Ohio TCC, Safety and Risk Management, and History that would benefit from your input. Take a minute now to email Dixie or I with questions; resolve to get more involved today. Meet the Member Cont. from Cover whole experience has been life altering for her. “It is such a pleasure to work with the passionate people in the tree care industry,” noted Laurie. In order to prepare for her third Stihl Tour des Trees (Florida – October 25-October 31), Laurie decided to challenge herself to do 100 mile rides in all states adjacent to Ohio. By the end of August she had completed nine 100 mile rides. She has done several rides in Ohio and completed rides in KY, IN, PA and MI. As of the writing of this article, she was preparing to conquer WV. Her longest one-day ride of the year was 170 miles and she hopes to complete a double century (200 miles) before the 2015 Tour des Trees. We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Laurie Skul and if she comes “knocking on your door” for TREE Fund donations, please don’t think twice about supporting the cause. Dollar$ and $en$e By Thomas Munn, Treasurer The U.S. economy for 2015 looks promising. So far, house sales are at levels last seen in 2008. New car sales are forecasted for 2015 at seventeen million (17M) units (Source: Automotive News). Unemployment is down, average hourly wage is up, and inflation (0.1%) is down (Bureau of Labor Statistics – Economy at a Glance). Make no mistake… people have money to spend. Forget about the stock market ups and downs. People are still making money with the volatile market. How about the tree care industry? How are we positioned? Tree Care – Seasonal or Year Round? Throughout Ohio we are in various stages of emerald ash borer infestation. Some areas have lots of dead standing trees and some have little mortality. It’s hard to change the mindset of homeowners from tree care in spring and summer only. It seems like once the holiday season begins, homeowners forget about yard maintenance until April rolls around. HERE is our opportunity! Turn the ash into cash! Now is the winter of our discounting! When I speak to homeowners with dead ash trees, they seem unaware that they can call tree service companies in November, December and January. Maybe they think arborists fly south for the winter. Yet here is a time for arborists to offer discounts for tree work since this is usually the “slow time” of year. The next question is how to find an arborist that works during the winter. Here is a serving suggestion: You may wish to leave your business cards at store bulletin boards highlighting that you are an “ash tree removal specialist” who offers “off season rates” from November through March. Maybe marketing our services towards winter tree removals will help even out the “feast or famine” of summer versus winter sales. Do you have a website? Is it worth changing the content now to capture winter sales? Is there a local newspaper with cheap advertising space? Many homeowners with money in their pockets and dead trees in the yard just don’t know who to call. In January, I schedule the nastiest line clearance tree trimming (people stay inside and don’t bother me). January is also great for huge removals when the ground is frozen and the leaves are off. In February, I schedule young tree training and large oak tree pruning. Arboriculture is a year round profession. There are monetary benefits and biological benefits to winter removals and pruning. We know it. Do your customers know? Will we market it? The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 3 Wedgle Direct-Inject Multiple injection tips designed for all types of trees, conifers and palms ® ™ TREE INJECTION SYSTEM Our advanced technology for tree treatment allows you to INCREASE THE NUMBER OF TREES YOU TREAT IN A DAY! No drilling damage No mixing at job sites No guarding or return trips No waiting for uptake Treats most trees in five minutes or less! ◆ Successful and most profitable add-on service ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ Insecticides • Fungicides PGRs • Antibiotics MicroNutrients 888-557-2455 [email protected] www.bannersales.net 4 ArborSystems.com The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 In-Depth on Tree Planting By Chad Clink, Community Forester, The Holden Arboretum One of the leading causes of young tree mortality is deep planting. When trees are planted too deeply they struggle to establish, are stagnant in growth, or develop conditions – like stem girdling roots – that lead to premature decline. However, following best tree planting practices can reduce the epidemic of improper planting and improve our success in growing large, healthy, and sustainable community trees and forests with their associated benefits. Root Flare The root flare can be described as the outward curving base of a tree where the stem joins the roots and ‘flares’ into the landscape (Photo 1). This area of transition from trunk tissue to root system is extremely active in transporting nutrients in solution and structurally supporting the tree. But, when we look into our landscapes and see new tree plantings, the root flare is often buried by soil and mulch resulting in unnecessary stress on our trees. Digging to a depth that is one to two inches shallower than the root ball for balled and burlapped plantings and one and one-half to two inches for containerized transplanting is considered standard. Remember that regardless of the type of planting material, you may have to excavate the top of a trees root ball to identify the root flare. Planting Width The width of a tree planting hole is equally as important as planting depth. A wide and shallow planting hole provides an opportunity for new root development and recovery from transplant shock. Planting hole width should be at least two times the diameter of the root ball (Photo 3). Some empirical observations suggest that a planting hole three to five times the root ball diameter increases the rate of establishment in the landscape. Photo 1. Root Flare (red arrow) Photo 3. Planting hole width at least 2x root ball diameter (root ball orange; planting width red) The first step in any successful tree planting is identifying the root flare depth in the root ball. The American National Standards Institute for Tree Care Operations – Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management – Standard Practices (Planting and Transplanting) specifies that the flare be at or above finished grade. This is often not the case. It may be prudent to start with a hole that is one and one-half the size of the root ball, set the root ball, and complete the remaining excavation. This approach limits the potential for unnecessary removal of soil and allows for the tree planter to cut-back the soil to an adequate planting width and backfill simultaneously. Planting Depth The planting hole depth can only be determined once the root flare has been identified. Many plantings demonstrate that no effort was made to determine the height of root flare in the root ball before planting (Photo 2). A planting hole should be dug that is slightly shallower than the distance between the bottom of the root ball and top of the root flare. Care should be taken not to disturb the native soil directly underneath the root ball in the planting hole as settling may occur. Improper (Deep) Planting The deep planting epidemic is chronic and affects overall tree vitality. We see that deep planting and improper mulching can eventually turn into stem girdling roots (Photo 4). Inspecting a trees root system prior to planting, correcting root defects, and planting at the correct depth can increase the success and longevity of plantings. Photo 2. Root ball coverings still in place indicating no attempt to determine location of root flare. (note the burlap, twine, and lack of root flare) Photo 4. (Courtesy Busy Bee Services) Stem girdling roots can form as a result of deep planting and improper mulching (stem girdling root red arrow; root pruning orange arrow) The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 In Depth Tree Planting Guide Cont. on page 6 5 In Depth Tree Planting Guide Cont. from page 5 Going in-depth on improper planting does not mean belaboring the point of deep planting (maybe a little), but perhaps informing and educating the community as to what a significant problem it has become in an economic, environmental, social, and net sustainabilitysense. When we cannot grow trees large enough to ‘pay us back’ or appreciate in the landscape with return on investment, we are not successful or efficient in growing trees and communities. Thus, the improper and deep planting epidemic makes the case to select highquality nursery stock, consult with a qualified arborist, and install to a standard that is supported and enforced by experts internationally. Communities should consider how to best approach the quality of their tree plantings through details and specifications that allow for oversight and enforcement of proper tree planting. An emphasis on low bids results in low expectations and potentially improper planting techniques. Young Tree Care Instead of “last but not least” let us start with “first and foremost” in having a maintenance plan for young tree care. It is a significant investment to plant trees and requires resources. Young trees will require pruning, mulching, some weeding, and watering (Photo 5). These are just the tasks and do not include the financial investment or sustainability considerations. Bibliography Watson, Gary W., and E. B. Himelick. 2013. The Practical Science of Planting Trees. Champaign, IL: International Society of Arboriculture. We are honored to recognize in this issue, the following individuals who recently received new credentials. Congratulations to all! ISA BOARD CERTIFIED MASTER ARBORIST Jose M. Fernandez ISA CERTIFIED ARBORIST Daniel B. Callahan Joseph M. Jones Clarence Cowan, IV Dawn Sherman Emilia Crawford Adrian Wilson Curt Andrew Hirtzinger ISA CERTIFIED ARBORIST MUNICIPAL SPECIALIST Aaron Joseph Noblet Photo 5. Young trees require 10-15 gallons of water per inch of caliper each week V E G E TAT I O N M A N A G E M E N T THAT’S CLEARING THE WAY Since 1946 Asplundh has been using herbicides to control unwanted vegetation growing on utility rights-of-way. And for more than 60 years, Asplundh has partnered with university researchers, utilities and manufacturers to ensure that our integrated vegetation management (IVM) programs are environmentally-sustainable and cost-effective. By combining mowing and side trimming with selective herbicide applications, Asplundh can tailor the most appropriate IVM plan for your right-of-way. We have the research to prove it at brambleandbyrnes.com. ASPLUNDH.COM 6 • 1-800-248-TREE The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 Tree Tech Bytes By Mark A. Webber, Board Certified Master Arborist Guide for Successful Pruning of Evergreen Trees In every edition of The Buckeye Arborist, I try to speak to topics that aren’t written about or discussed in the Arborist News and other forums. My responsibility as the Tree Tech editor is to give you the most up to date information and best practices of how the practicing arborist should be performing their daily duties. In this issue, I have written about a topic that has little or no information written or dissented about. Dead Zone Most conifers produce a dead interior zone where the twigs and buds are killed from severe self-shading (Starbuck, 2009). The dead zone limits the extent of pruning. If it is exposed by severe pruning, new shoots will not develop from the exposed area. The result is a deformed and unsightly plant. In today’s landscape, large evergreen trees are the backbone of landscapes throughout the United States. Property owners tend to revere these groups of plants with higher regard due to their unique upright habits that bring yearround green qualities. Unfortunately very little has been written or published that can guide practicing arborists on the best practices of how to properly and successfully prune evergreen trees. The current ANSI A300 part 1 standard section 6.1.4 sets forth the principle that no more than 25% of live foliage should be removed in any single pruning cycle with in a 1 year time frame (Tree Care Industry Association, 2008). Broadleaved evergreen trees like certain Image courtesy of University magnolias, evergreen hollys, and in some cases older of Missouri Extension rhododendrons that become tree like. In today’s modern landscape, it’s common to find forms of these plants that 50 years ago would have been the exception not the rule (Brickell & Joyce,1999). But due to plant selection and better winter hardiness we see more of these plants in todays cultivated landscape and it’s important that the arborist know the best practices of how to prune them successfully. But, I would contend that if anyone would remove 25% of any evergreen trees live terminals on a yearly basis for at least 3-4 consecutive years as the standard allows this would result in the plant being pruned into starvation. This over pruned tree would not have the photosynthetic potential to recover from the lost energy production caused by excessive pruning (Coder). Pine needles are arranged in clusters or bundles, which are fastened to a twig in a sheath. The number of needles in a cluster varies from species to species, but usually they are in bundles of two, three, or five. Most pines produce their buds on the terminal tips of their shoots and not along the stems. This results in one flush of growth per year. New shoots are called candles. To better understand the arborists responsibility of how, where, what, how much, and when to prune evergreen trees it’s critical for the arborist to understand that every pruning cut does matter, according to Dr. Kim D. Coder (2008): How to Prune: Prune pines in the late spring as new growth emerges. To produce a compact, uniform plant or to maintain a plant shape, pinch onethird to one-half of each candle when it expands in the spring (French& Appleton, 2009). Evergreen Branch Arrangement Types and How to Prune Pines (Pinus) “Pruning is used to maintain tree values, help trees appreciate in value over time, and minimize liabilities. Proper pruning increases tree owner and user value perceptions of management, minimizes structural problems, and attempts to maximize biological efficiency” And Dr. Coder (2008) further states that the arborist doing pruning of any kind should understand that it: “is critical to carefully consider every cut” To best understand this group of plants and the impactions of every pruning cut it’s important to understand how evergreen trees function. This group of plants contain unique plant parts that make them morphologically and physiologically different than their deciduous cousins. Anatomy of an Evergreen Tree Image courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension Do not prune back into woody stems; new growth will not develop from these areas. Shearing is not recommended. When older pines are overgrown, the only option usually is to remove an entire branch. Evergreen trees have leaves and needles that persist year round, and these plants include most conifers and some broad-leaved trees. Evergreen trees generally do not need pruning, especially if placed properly in the landscape. Conifers are distinguished from other plants by their needle or scale-like leaves, and their seedbearing cones. Because conifers have dominant leaders, young trees rarely require training-type pruning. The leader is the vertical stem at the top of the trunk. If a young tree has two leaders, prune Image courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension one out to prevent multiple leader development. Selective branch removal is generally unnecessary as evergreens tend to have wide angles of attachment to the trunk. Image courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension Spruces (Picea) have individual, angled needles with brown pegs at the base of each needle. The pegs remain on the twig after the needles drop, resulting in a rough twig. Buds are scattered along the twigs of the newest growth. Cones are long and pendulous. Although spruces need very little pruning, bottom branches may die with age and can be removed. Tree Tech Bytes Cont. on page 8 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 7 Tree Tech Bytes Cont. from page 7 How to Prune: For a formal shape, prune new growth in the spring. Shear in late spring, after new growth has expanded. only into live wood. To regain the natural shape of the plant, balance lower limbs by lightly pruning branch tips. Older arborvitae growing in shade will develop a dead zone that is incapable of regenerating new growth. Do not prune into this area. (Special note) Oriental arborvitae (Thuja orientalis) is slow growing and responds best to shearing new growth only. Cypress or false cypress (Chamaecyparis) These coniferous trees with a wide range of species that have flattened sprays of scale-like adult leaves. Juvenile leaves are larger and ovate to linear. Image courtesy of Colorado State University Although spruces need very little pruning, bottom branches may die with age and can be removed (McConnell, Mahoney, Colt, & Partridge, 1998). To reduce the size of a branch, cut back to a lateral branch or a visible dormant bud. This can be done in late winter. To repair a broken leader, cut off the broken branch and tie one of the shorter side shoots upright onto a splint, training it to become the new leader. Remove the tie after one year. If two leaders develop, remove the weaker one. Fir (Abies) are much like spruces and the pruning methods are the same (McConnell, Mahoney, Colt, & Partridge, 1998). Arborvitae (Thuja) – The needles of arborvitae are flat, frond-like fans. Cones are distinct and are in half-inch clusters. How to Prune: Arborvitae comes in many different forms and sizes that should be maintained when pruning (French & Appleton, 2009). Arborvitae will withstand heavy pruning and shearing because new branches develop from concealed buds in the branch crotches. Prune in early spring or mid-summer. When heavy pruning is necessary, prune before new growth begins in early spring so that new growth conceals pruning cuts. To lower the height (no more than 20 percent) of a plant, cut back to a lower branch crotch, making cuts How to Prune: Select branches with active live growth and remove branch to a branch with a similar stem diameter (McConnell, Mahoney, Colt, & Partridge, 1998). Do not cut into dead zones or shear- this will cause for unattractive plant and die back of the individual stems. Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) is not a cedar at all, but is in the same family as baldcypress (Taxodium). Cryptomeria is an extremely variable conifer that includes well over 100 cultivars available in the U.S. All Japanese cedars can be pruned to keep a more compact form. Pruning is best done just before new growth begins in the spring, but proper cultivar selection can eliminate the need for pruning. The evergreen leaves are made up of spirally arranged needlelike leaves. How to Prune: Remove the deadwood and do light shearing on new growth (Bohl, 2014). Avoid at all costs pruning into older wood due to a heavy dead zone in the interior branches. Junipers (Juniperus) This diverse group of plants includes spreading, upright, pyramidal, and creeping habits. Junipers have two types of needles, one scalelike and the other prickly and sharp. Both types are often seen on the same plant. Fruit is a distinct, light blue, berry-like cone. All junipers develop a dead Tree Tech Bytes Cont. on page 9 Training is crucial, which is why ACRT places great value in training safety-focused, knowledgeable arborists. And it’s why ACRT provides a broad array of classes, seminars and workshops designed to provide students with the latest knowledge and skills they need to make their careers successful. TRAINING THAT GOES WHERE YOU GO. • Largest licensed arboriculture vocational training organization in North America Training Schedule • Hands-on training programs, including our unique Line Clearance Arborist Certification class, customized specifically to your skill level, learning needs and even your location • • • • • • A variety of courses for arborists who work for municipalities, line clearance companies, tree care companies and government agencies • Field and classroom training available at your location or at our school Line Clearance Arborist Certification October 26–30, 2015 February 1–5, 2016 April 18–22, 2016 July 18–22, 2016 October 24–28, 2016 Basic Arborist • • • • • October 19–23, 2015 January 25–29, 2016 April 11–15, 2016 July 11–15, 2016 October 17–21, 2016 Advanced Arborist • Call for details Electrical Hazard Training Register at ACRT.com/GettingStarted Mention this ad to receive a free gift! • Call for details This schedule includes only programs taught at ACRT training centers in Akron, Ohio. If none of these programs fit your training needs, please call School Director Lois Tennant at (800) 622-2562, ext. 240, for additional information and class schedules. Successful completion of these courses helps students maintain ISA credentials. © Copyright ACRT Inc., All Rights Reserved. 8 acrtinc.com/training The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 Tree Tech Bytes Cont. from page 8 zone in the center of the plant because of insufficient light. New growth will not develop from this area unless green needles remain. Image courtesy of Colorado State University How to Prune: To correct the shape, prune before new growth starts in the spring; lightly prune side branches to reduce their size and to bring the plant back into scale (Brickell & Joyce, 1999). Prune spreading and creeping junipers by selectively cutting back to vigorous, lateral side branches. Do not shear in a formal manner. Overgrown specimens can be lowered up to 20 percent, but cuts must be above the dead zone. When shearing junipers care should be taken to leave some new growth on the plant to avoid pruning back into the dead zone. Shearing should take place in the spring when plants are actively growing. Severe pruning is not recommended. Evergreen Hollys (Ilex) – American holly or hybrid versions may be pruned in December for Christmas greens. These slow growers can be severely damaged by over pruning. How to Prune: Always make the cut at a node, just above a lateral bud. Prune so as to maintain the natural pyramidal shape of the tree (Brickell & Joyce, 1999). covers to various-sized trees and shrubs. Yews are slow-growing, long-lived plants, which produce two flushes of growth per year. How to Prune: New growth can develop on old wood on certain species of yews like cuspidate types while media types may or may not respond (Brickell & Joyce, 1999). In some cases yews are very tolerant of heavy pruning or shearing, but this is best done as winter ends and as spring breaks in colder climates. To maintain size, prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Prune again in mid-June. Annual shearing should be done after new growth has expanded. Follow-up shearing should continue throughout the growing season. To avoid stimulating new growth late in the season (thus preventing winter injury), do not shear yews after August. Rhododendron – Wide leafed evergreen plants that in time become large shrubs or small bushy trees with large terminal buds that produce large showy flowers. These plants generally require very little pruning, as they are slowgrowing. How to Prune: Old flower clusters should be removed immediately after flowering. Prune out only dead, diseased, and weak branches (Brickell & Joyce, 1999). Hemlocks (Tsuga) – Hemlocks have small, flat, dark green needles arranged spirally around the stem. Cones are small and pendulous. How to Prune: It is preferable to allow these plants to retain their natural form, hemlock will become a tall tree, but can be pruned or sheared as a hedge and can be pruned much like Yew (Taxus) (Brickell & Joyce, 1999) Special Pruning Tips Evergreen Magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora)-These shiny green leaved trees are wonderment to the winter landscape. The southern magnolia has creeped its way into northern landscapes and can be a tender species of tree that has little to no tolerance for pruning. While (Magnolia virginiana) or known as sweetbay magnolia has simply no tolerance to pruning except to have deadwood removed. Like their deciduous cousins the evergreen magnolia prefers to be left alone when it comes to pruning and if you have to prune large branches be sure the plant is in ample vigor, otherwise the plant will form serious decay zones in its trunk and scaffold branches. Corrective pruning for evergreen trees consists mainly of dead, diseased, or damaged branch removal. Remove dead wood promptly by cutting dead branches back to healthy branches. When pruning diseased branches make thinning cuts into healthy wood well below the infected area. Thinning cuts remove branches to their points of origin or attachment. Disinfect tools between each cut with products such as “Lysol.” How to Prune: Just deadwood back to a secondary live branch and keep plant well maintained with proper watering and fertility (Brickell & Joyce, 1999). Yews (Taxus) – Needles are glossy, dark green, and arranged spirally in pairs along erect stems. Fruit is a fleshy, red berry. Yews range from spreading ground When a tree’s leader is lost due to storm damage or disease, replace it by splinting an upper lateral branch into a vertical position. Prune all laterals immediately below the new leader. Use wood or flexible wire splints, removing them after one growing season. Pruning Evergreen Chart Note Allow evergreen trees to grow in their natural form. Don’t prune into the inactive center (no needles or leaves attached) of whorl-branched conifers because new branches won’t form to fill in the holes. Provided below is detailed month by month pruning recommendations by species for evergreen trees in USDA Zone 5 & 6 Legend: * = Best time to prune x = Do not prune except to correct damage, hazards, or structural defects - = Timing is not critical 1. Seldom needs pruning – remove multiple leaders, dead, and broken branches 2. Don’t prune into old wood having no leaves or needles 3. Prune during growing season to make more compact or dense 4. To avoid reducing berry production, don’t prune during bloom period 5. Prune to remove cankers 6. Flower buds set on previous season (old) wood; winter pruning will reduce spring flowering Plant Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Note Arborvitae Atlas Cedar Chamaecyparis Japanese cedar Fir Hemlock Holly (Evergreen) Juniper Magnolia, Southern Pine Spruce * * * x * * * * - * * * x * * * * - * * x * x - * * x x * - * * x x * * * * * x x * * * x x x * x x x * x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x - * * * x * * * * - * * * x * * * * - 1,2 1,2 1,2,6 1,2,5 1,2 1,2,3 4 1,2 1,6 1,2,3 1,3,5 Tree Tech Bytes Cont. on page 10 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 9 Tree Tech Bytes Cont. from page 9 Pruning large branches Pruning standards and horticultural writings as well as arboricultural publications advise against pruning branches flush to the trunk. Flush cutting in evergreen trees is harmful like in deciduous trees in several ways: Branches and debris from pruning should be removed from the site as soon as possible to minimize the danger of spreading the disease. Avoid pruning diseased evergreen trees in wet weather and the plants should be dry for several days before pruning. How much to prune • Damages bark as pruning tools rub against the trunk • Removes the branch collar • The cut goes behind the branch bark ridge. When major limbs are removed the branch collar should be protected at all costs. This area is the swollen area of trunk tissue that forms around the base of a branch. The branch bark ridge is a line of rough bark running from the branch-trunk crotch into the trunk bark, less prominent on some trees than on others. Like any kind of pruning, the removal of branches that contain active needles reduces the ability of the plant to make energy. In the case of most deciduous trees we strive to maintain a live crown ratio of at least 66% of the trees total volume of space. More importantly, this live crown ratio assures ample photosynthetic surface for a potentially robust and vigorous tree, if site resources are not limited. As live crown ratios decline, less photosynthetic area and more respiring tissue remain. As the live crown ratio shrinks the trees health changes and its ability to deal effectively with stress decreases as well. Dr. Kim Coder (2008) describes the consequences of over-pruned trees that: “For example, once upland oak species (Quercus spp.) approach a live crown ratio of 15%, they are more prone to insect attack (i.e. borers) and less resistant to abiotic stress. For example in Southern yellow pines (Pinus spp.), as live crown ratio approaches 10%, a number of bark beetles become much more effective in attack and the tree less able to resist” Careful and judicial pruning decisions Image courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension The best pruning cut is made outside the branch collar, at a 45 to 60 degree angle to the branch bark ridge. Leave the branch collar intact to help prevent decay from entering the trunk. Where to Prune Most evergreen pruning is done for corrective reasons, so seasonal timing is not as important as it is for deciduous species. Pruning during dormancy is the most common practice and will result in a vigorous burst of spring growth. Whenever unexpected damage from vandalism or bad weather occurs, prune immediately. There are, however, certain evergreen pruning activities for specific times of the year. Prune random-branched conifers in early spring when new growth will cover the pruning wounds. “Candles” of whorl-branched conifers must be pinched back in mid to late spring. Maintenance pruning of random-branched conifers is done in summer to keep plants within a desired size range. Do Not Top Evergreens The practice of topping is not a good choice. Topping is the removal of all branches of a mature tree above an arbitrary height leaving unnatural decayed stubs and will cause multiple structural defects in the remaining branches. Large evergreen trees do not respond well to topping. The removal of the upper main stem through topping opens the tree to internal decay, disease, or damaging insects; it also removes the most productive portion of the crown of the tree. Additionally, most conifer trees have strong apical dominance. When topped, a conifer will lose its apical dominance, will become branched in multiple directions, and the tree will be predisposed to future stem failures. Pruning Diseased Evergreens Evergreen trees under certain conditions can harbor pathogens that can be easily spread by pruning so great care should be taken. Pruning can promote the spread of the disease and can be easily carried by pruning tools to unaffected portions of the tree. Sanitation pruning cuts should be done well away from infected wood. Be sure to make your cut into live wood at least 4 to 6 inches below the last indication of dieback or disease to a secondary branch. Household Lysol is an excellent disinfectant for pruning equipment (McConnell, Mahoney, Colt, & Partridge, 1998) 10 As Dr. Kim Coder (2008) describes, as well as suggests earlier in this article, pruning is the most powerful tool that we arborists have that can improve or destroy a trees ability to provide function to a landscape and a trees benefits to its end user. It’s vitally important that before one single pruning cut is made to any tree, especially to an evergreen tree, that the practicing arborist respect and understand how the subject tree being pruned grows and how its morphological and physiological processes work so that every pruning cut is done in a judicial and sustaining manner. About the Author: Mark A. Webber is a Board Certified Master Arborist with nearly forty years of relevant professional experience. He provides forensic investigations, reports, and testimony in matters related to tree maintenance and removal, plant value, management of nursery and landscaping operations, and an assortment of horticultural issues. He can be contacted at mwebber@ webberlandscaping.com Citations 1. Bohl, L. (2014). Captivating Cryptomeria. Digger Magazine. September 2014.pp 19-26 2. Brickell, C.; Joyce, D. (1999). The Cavendish Encyclopedia of Pruning and Training. October 1999. pp1-336 3. Coder, K. D. (2008). Arboritecture: Foundations of Classic Design Pruning. University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources monograph publication WSFNR08-13. Pp.80. http://www. warnell.uga.edu/outreach/pubs/pdf/forestry/Pruning%20Manual%20 Arboritecture%20monograph%20pub08-13.pdf 4. Colorado State University Extension (2014). Web source http://www.ext. colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/617.html 5. French, S.C.; Appleton, B.L. (2009), A Guide to Successful Pruning, Pruning Evergreen Trees. 6. McConnell, D.W.; Mahoney, R.L.; Colt, W.M.; Partridge, A.D. (1998). How to Prune Coniferous Evergreen Trees. University of Idaho. pp1-8 7. Starbuck. (2009). Pruning Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. University of Missouri Extension Service. Web source http://extension.missouri.edu/p/mg8 8. Tree Care Industry Association. (2008). ANSI A300 (Part 1) - 2008 Pruning. TCIA/ISA 9. Windsor, J. (2013). Pruning Evergreens. University of Delaware. HYG-73. p 1 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 OHIO TREE CARE CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW Kalahari Resort & Convention Center Sandusky Ohio February 28 – March 1, 2016 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES The Ohio Chapter ISA hosts one of the oldest and most respected trade shows for tree care professionals in Ohio, the Ohio Tree Care Conference (OTCC). Over 400 individuals representing commercial, municipal, utility, governmental, research and educational entities will attend the 2016 Conference. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to market your products and services at the OTCC; it’s the only statewide Conference and Trade Show targeted to this group of arborists. Make a commitment today to support the 2016 Ohio Tree Care Conference! Food & Beverage Opportunities Grand Opening of Exhibit Hall Party – Investment: $1,000 per Co-Sponsor Support the party where everyone will gather on Sunday evening! Party will include music, food, beverages and lots of great networking. Exhibit Hall Lunch (Tuesday) – Investment: $1,000 per Co-Sponsor This co-sponsorship provides lunch to all attendees and exhibitor representatives. Lunch will be served on the Trade Show floor. Exhibit Hall Continental Breakfast (Monday) – Investment: $800 per Co-Sponsor This sponsorship provides breakfast for all attendees and exhibitor representatives. Breakfast buffet will be on the Trade Show floor. Sponsor this complimentary breakfast; it’s a great way to jump start the day. Beverage Station (Sponsorships Available Monday and Tuesday) – Investment: $500 Exclusive/$300 Co-Sponsor Sponsor a beverage station and gain company recognition in front of hundreds of qualified buyers. Educational Opportunities Keynote Sessions – Investment: $1,500 Exclusive Company representative may give a 5-minute presentation about the sponsoring company from the podium and a company representative may introduce the speaker. Track Sessions – Investment: $1,000 per Track Exclusive Available tracks include Arboriculture Plus, Commercial, Municipal, Utility and Climber’s Corner. Registration Opportunities Registration Give-Away Sponsors – Investment: $200 plus the cost of the item These sponsorships are a great way to get your company name out there to EVERY attendee. Recommended items include registration bags, lanyards, note pads and pens, clip boards, etc. Items must display Ohio Chapter ISA logo or name and may show the sponsor logo or tag line. Design and artwork must be pre-approved by Chapter staff. Sponsor is responsible for all production and shipping/delivery charges. Friend Sponsor – Investment: $100 Because every little bit helps, Friend Sponsors are available for those who just want to give a little more. Benefits of Sponsorship Dependent upon receipt date of Commitment, sponsor will receive recognition in two issues of The Buckeye Arborist (Distribution 800); on event signage, in the Conference program and on the Chapter’s website. Policies & Procedures 1. OTCC exhibitors are given first option of sponsorship opportunities. 2. To secure a sponsorship, submit a Commitment Form plus full payment to the Ohio Chapter. Sponsorships will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. 3. Sponsor must comply with all relevant policies concerning advertising and exhibiting with the Ohio Chapter ISA. Event dates and times are subject to change. Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture 1100-H Brandywine Blvd. Zanesville, OH 43701-7303 Phone: (614) 771-7494 Fax: (740) 452-2552 [email protected] www.ohiochapterisa.org The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 11 OHIO TREE CARE CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW Kalahari Resort & Convention Center Sandusky Ohio February 28 – March 1, 2016 SPONSORSHIP COMMITMENT FORM Complete and return form to secure your support; check the box by the desired sponsorship. Options available first come/first served. Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Party (Co-Sponsor $1,000) Exhibit Hall Lunch (Co-Sponsor $1,000) Exhibit Hall Continental Breakfast (Co-Sponsor $800) Beverage Station – Check Preference Below Exclusive $500 Co-Sponsor $300 Keynote Session (Exclusive $1,500) Track Sessions (Exclusive $1,000) – Please mark desired track: Arboriculture Plus Commercial Municipal Utility Climber’s Corner Registration Give-Away $300 – Check Preference Below Note Pads & Pens Lanyards Registration Bags Shirts Other – please write recommendation for another option for consideration. Friend Sponsor ($100) CONTACT INFORMATION (Please Print/Type Clearly the coordinator for your company and their contact information.) Company Name _________________________________________________________________ Contact Name __________________________ Title __________________________________ Phone _________________________________ Cell ___________________________________ E-mail ___________________ Authorized Signature ___________________________________ Completing this form serves management notice that you agree to be contacted by mail/phone/fax and/or e-mail. Payment must be included with form. Once marketing begins, Sponsorships are non-refundable. Check (Please make payable to Ohio Chapter ISA) To pay by credit card, please visit www.ohiochapterisa.org and Sign In (located in the upper right corner). Ohio Chapter ISA currently accepts the following credit cards: MasterCard and VISA. Ohio Chapter ISA is unable to accept credit cards by phone, fax, email, or by mail. If you do not remember your Username or Password, use the Reset Your Password on the Ohio Chapter ISA web site by entering the email address associated with your member record. Please contact the Ohio Chapter ISA office at 614-771-7494 if you have any questions or have trouble logging in. We appreciate your support of Ohio Chapter ISA. PLEASE MAIL, FAX OR EMAIL COMPLETED FORM TO MAXIMIZE YOUR EXPOSURE! Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture 1100-H Brandywine Blvd. Zanesville, OH 43701-7303 Phone: (614) 771-7494 Fax: (740) 452-2552 [email protected] www.ohiochapterisa.org 12 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 STRONG LEGACY • STRONGER FU D AV E Y U T I L I T Y S E R V I C E S PRODUCTION STARTS HERE. WE TRACK EACH VEHICLE IN DAVEY’S FLEET THROUGH GPS. We have a modern GPS enabled fleet that is tailored to the needs of each client. This allows us to respond equally well to the most remote and rugged environments or the demands of working in a densely populated urban center. THIS IS THE DAVEY WAY. RELIABILITY PERSONIFIED. • Highly trained employee owners in results • A strong family of brands • Industry leading safety culture • Modern fleet with advanced GP WEB: www.davey.com/utility EMAIL: [email protected] For more information please visit www.davey.com/utility or call 866.66 CONTACT: 800.445.8733 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 13 TREE Fund Update By Charles Owen, City of Brecksville Name Dropping Team Ohio just finished its biggest fund raiser of the year, the Pig Roast/Wine & Beer Tasting event at The Holden Arboretum on August 22. The weather was perfect, the food and beverage outstanding, the venue inviting and the camaraderie flowed like good beer. All the parts came together thanks in large part to our Team Ohio captain and TREE Fund liaison, Beth Buchanan – she, as a force of nature herself, may have even influenced the weather! The event was a great success in support of our riders participating in the Stihl Tour des Trees bicycle ride to benefit the Tree Research & Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund). A great time was had by all! I am honored to have been able to help out at the event, to rub (and bend) elbows with the tree care luminaries in attendance, and to support the Team Ohio Tour riders. I would like to mention, in no particular order, some of the folks that were there: Team Ohio itself was well represented with current Tour riders and support personnel: TREE Fund liaison (and in this case, ringleader) Beth Buchanan, Jane Renee Chabrand, Hank Gulich, Kevin Jones, Jeff McMullen, Laurie Skul, Dave Staats, and Mark and Shirley Vaughn. The riders showed their thanks and humility by manning the serving line once the food was ready. Our host for the evening, The Holden Arboretum, also showed its support of the TREE Fund’s mission and goals with some of its staff in attendance. Arboretum director Clem Hamilton was there and led several exclusive tours to the not-yet-opened canopy walk facility in one of Holden’s many forested areas. I am looking forward to seeing the new exhibit myself after it opens this Labor Day. The pig roast could not have happened without the very active hands-on participation of two other Holden stalwarts, Gary Weinheimer and Chad Clink – to say they merely filled their roles of “facility coordinators” is quite the understatement! The Arb’s education department was represented by Ms. Marian Williams and its current crop of student interns by Alex Makowic. A retired arboretum legend was also on hand for the evening. Tom Yates, former superintendent at Lantern Court (the Corning estate with extensive gardens dating from the 1930’s), was a huge influence on me when I interned at the arboretum and resided at Lantern Court in the late 80’s. I consider Tom a mentor and friend. His brother Doug, retired from Klyn Nurseries, was there too. It was great to see them both! Alan Siewert of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Urban Forestry, along with his wife Anne, contributed to the day-long set-up in many ways. Even though he is not a bike rider, Alan is one of our most ardent supporters. He, as always, served as the master of ceremonies during the event and helped organize beforehand. We had visitors from out of state. Prominent among this group was Mary DiCarlo, our main top-level contact with the TREE Fund office near Chicago. She is instrumental in making sure each Tour des Trees runs smoothly and is always on hand at the event. Mary had some words of thanks and encouragement for us during a few minutes at the microphone after supper. I think she was also present to take notes so that other chapters might benefit from our experience (and success!) with this event. We even had international participants. Representing our neighbor TREE Fund Update Cont. on page 15 Thank you to our Sponsors Platinum Plus Sponsor Platinum Sponsor Platinum Plus Sponsor Silver Sponsor 14 Platinum Plus Sponsor Platinum Plus Sponsor Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsor Silver Sponsor Silver Sponsor Platinum Plus Sponsor Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsor The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 Tree Fund Update Cont. from page 14 to the north was, among others, Warren Hoselton – also known as Professor Pricklethorn. Mr. Hoselton donned his “game face” to help dedicate a tree, Tour-style, and to entertain the kids present at the event. It is always gratifying to have children around at these adult mixers and it was great to have a source of education and entertainment (and stickers!) for them. Thanks Professor! Each of the major sponsors sent a contingent. It is good to have the opportunity to put a face with that logo or that voice on the phone. In other TREE Fund news: For details on the upcoming Stihl Tour des Trees and other TREE Fund events, please visit www.treefund.org. Riders and teams are still taking donations, please be generous! Grant applications can be made through that same website. Applications are due October 1 for: We were busy raising funds for research and education in the tree care industry so it was really important to us that one of the recipients of these same funds was actively present to help us out. Dan Herms, entomologist at OARDC in Wooster, was there with his wife Cathy, an educator in her own right. Dr. Herms made a few comments to the crowd after supper. He emphasized the importance of independent research dollars like those available through the TREE Fund as a source of seed money (an appropriate metaphor considering the context). Monetary support he gets through the TREE Fund can be matched by The Ohio State University and the combined funds can then be used to draw even more financial support. The current visitations of the invasive emerald ash borer have shown how critical it is to have research machinery in place for the long haul. • John Z. Duling Grant, which provide “seed” funding for innovative research and technology transfer projects that can benefit arborists’ everyday work. (Up to $10,000) • Jack Kimmel International Grant, for arboriculture research projects all over the world. (Up to $10,000) We are still catching our collective breath after the event and will report more details in the next issue. This issue contains a heartfelt thanks to our major donors. PROTECTING THE REPUTATION OF THE UTILITIES WE SERVE... VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST IT’S PART OF OUR JOB 800-522-4311 • www.nelsontree.com/ad/reputation.html The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 See the video 15 A CUT ABOVE. Hard-working Terex Equipment plus dependable service across the nation from Terex Services North America adds up to strong, efficient, and reliable equipment and service. We are ready to serve you with equipment, parts, service and inspections from OEM technicians. Just give us a call. For more information on Terex Utilities equipment or Terex Services North America Call 1.800.982.8975, or visit online at www.terex.com/utilities Terex is a registered trademark of Terex Corporation in the USA and many other countries. ©2015 Terex Corporation. 16 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 CEUs at Home Common Tree Concerns During the Fall By Jennifer Milbrandt, Coordinator of Natural Resources, City of Strongsville Even though the growing season is winding down, there are still questions concerning trees that we face. Diseases, insects and abiotic disorders occur in fall too. The following tree-related issues typically occur during the fall in Ohio. White Pine Needle Drop All conifers drop their needles; however, white pine is typically the “severe” and noticeable. Needle drop, is where the inner needles of white pines turn yellow and drop off. Needle drop is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the autumn (and sometimes early spring). White Pine Needle Drop ( photo courtesy: Deborah Miller, Davey Institute) Mites As the cooler temperatures come back to Ohio, so do cool season mites! The spruce spider mite (Oligonychus ununguis), for instance , can be found on all types of conifers: spruce, pines, junipers and arbor vitae. Eriophyid mites on white pine (photo courtesy: Deborah Miller, Davey Institute) Tubakia Leaf Spot Tubakia leaf spot (formerly called Actinopelte leaf spot), is a late-season fungal disease of oaks. Although all species of oak appear to be prone to this disease, oaks in the red oak group such as black, red, and pin oak, appear to be most susceptible. Symptoms of the disease include small to large dark brown or reddish-brown spots or blotches on the leaf. Spotting on leaf veins may cause large areas of dead leaf tissue along the veins. If trees are heavily infected with Tubakia leaf spot, premature defoliation may occur, however, disease usually develops late enough in the season such that adverse effects on the health of trees are minimal. 3 Spider mites have piercing-sucking mouth parts that remove the contents of individual plant cells. When a spider mite feeds on a leaf, tiny yellow or white speckles form on the leaf ’s surfaces. If many feeding marks form in the same area, the foliage takes on a bronze cast, this is referred to as stippling. Defoliation can then follow. To verify spider mite activity, consider using the “beating-tray” method. Place a white paper underneath the branch you suspect has an infestation, and then shake the branch. To make the spider mites more visible on the paper, use your finger to lightly smash and smear the mites – mushed mites appear as greenish-brown streaks. 1 Reddish streaks are typically beneficial mites. Eriophyid rust mites (Nalepella sp.and Epitrimerus sp.) are also active in the fall as well as early spring.. Rust mites can be found on hemlock, fir, spruce and baldcypress. Tubakia Leaf spot (photo courtesy: Deborah Miller, Davey Institute) Unlike the eriophyids that produce plant galls, rust mites are “freeliving,” meaning they can survive on the surface of their host’s foliage. Stippling and yellowing of needles on spruces and hemlocks are often attributed to spruce spider mites, but eriophyids may actually be the cause of damage. A microscope is often required to distinguish between spider mite and rust mite feeding. 2 The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 CEUs at Home continued on page 18 17 CEUs at Home continued from page 17 Squirrels Ohio’s squirrel population is busy gathering food and plumping up for the winter. During fall, as squirrel’s switch their focus from reproduction to winter reserves, they clip twigs and strip bark from branches. Twig clipping is just what it sounds like; the squirrel clips a twig, usually at the end of a branch, and lets it fall to the ground. The end result of this squirrel activity is a scattering of clipped twigs on the ground below the tree. Beech and oak trees are especially susceptible to twig clipping because squirrels want easy access to nuts. By knocking branches to the ground, gathering nuts becomes an easier task. Bark stripping can be quite alarming as the squirrel literally strips or chews off sections of bark from tree branches. Squirrels do this for various reasons, including food, water, and reinforcing their winter nests. Squirrel damage on Beech (Jennifer Milbrandt) References 1 David J. Sheltar, “Spider Mites and their Control,” The Ohio State University Extension. OSU Fact Sheet, 2011. http://ohioline.osu. edu/hyg-fact/2000/pdf/2012.pdf. 2 Joseph F. Boggs, et al. “Insect and Mite Activity noted in Ohio Nurseries & landscapes: 2003,” Special Circular Ohio Agricultural Research & Development Center 193: 33-53. 3 Gail Ruhl, Picture of the Week. Purdue University Department of Botany & Plant Pathology , June 2006 https://www.ppdl.purdue. edu/PPDL/weeklypics/8-14-06.html 4 Ohio State University Extension. Buckeye Yard & Garden Online. The Ohio State University Ohio State Extension: Hort Shorts, October 3, 2013 https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/ resource/717/05/ Squirrel actively stripping bark (Jennifer Milbrandt) News from National Ohio Chapter Recognized – During the 2015 ISA Annual International Conference, Chapter Council of Representatives (CoR) liaison Mark Hoenigman received a Participation Award for participating in at least 75 percent of CoR outreach efforts in 2014. Executive Director Dixie Russell was one of only fifteen components to receive the Overall ISA Component Participation Award; recognizing her and Mark for attending and participating in 75 percent or more of the combined CoR and Component Executive outreach efforts. Call for Papers – ISA is seeking presentation proposals for the 2016 ISA Annual International Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, August 13-17. Abstract proposal will be accepted through Friday, December 4. International Tree Climbing Championship – The ISA has announced a new strategic plan for separating its annual international conference and the International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC). After careful consideration, the ISA Board approved a new format that creates greater opportunities for involving ISA chapters, associate organizations, and members and also increases opportunity for public outreach. ISA leadership believes that holding the events independently provides flexibility in selection of locations, facilities, and dates that are best suited for the growth and success of both events, which may result in 18 them occurring at different times of year and in different locations altogether. This flexibility moves ISA toward being able to deliver better benefits to a wider audience, reaching more people within the industry and among the general public. “With the events separated, ISA will be able to better allocate human and financial resources to organize events that meet our strategic goals and provide even more educational opportunities and interaction with our members,” says Jim Skiera, the executive director of ISA. “Separation also allows capacity to build out a greater public engagement experience with our tree climbing championship.” Without the time constraints of one annual event, ISA plans to offer more educational workshops during the ITCC geared toward reaching niche groups of the industry. In conjunction, an outdoor trade show will provide additional opportunities for demonstrations and networking among our members, vendors, and other industry partners. More interactive educational activities will also be a key component in order to attract the public and generate more exposure for the industry. The 2016 ITCC event will be held April 2-3 in Brackenridge Park, San Antonio, Texas. For more information on news topics, please contact ISA. The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 Earn CEU’s at Home CEU Test Registration Information Must be completely filled out. Name___________________________________________________________ Certification #____________ Company________________________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________ E-mail ___________________________________________________ Signature________________________________________________________________Date____________ Diagnosing Soil Problems Test Questions To receive continuing education unit (CEU) credit for home study of this article after you have read it, circle the appropriate answers on the test below. A passing score is 8 correct answers. Next, complete the registration information above, including your certification number & signature, on this answer form and send it to Ohio Chapter ISA, 1100-H Brandywine Blvd, Zanesville, Ohio 43701-7303. The answer form must be postmarked no later than October 31, 2015 to be valid. A photocopy of the answer form is not acceptable. You must be a current member of the Ohio Chapter ISA for your CEU test to be processed. You will be notified only if you do not pass. If you do not pass, you may not re-take the test. This test will qualify for ISA CEUs. 1. Eriophyid mites are the only cause of needle discoloration on white 7. Rust mites can be found on all but the following: pine in the fall? a.Hemlock a.True b.Fir b.False c.Juniper d.Spruce 2. Squirrel clip twigs in the Autumn to a. Mark their territory 8. Which of these oak is the least susceptible to Tubakia leaf spot: b. Attract a mate a. Black oak c. Easily access food b. White Oak c. Red Oak 3. Tubakia Leaf Spot is an early season disease on oak that has adverse d. Pin Oak effects on tree health. a.True 9. Spruce spider mites can be found on all types of conifers: spruce, b.False pines, junipers and arbor vitae. a.True 4. Squirrels strip bark from trees for all the following except: b.False a.Food b.Water 10. A microscope is often required to distinguish between spider mite c. Reinforcing their winter nest and rust mite feeding d. Marking their territory a.True b.False 5. Spruce spider mite populations can be verified by using which of the following methods: a. Beating tray method b. Bait traps c.Sugaring 6. Needle drop is where the inner needles of the white pine turn yellow and drop off a.True b.False The Buckeye Arborist September/October 2015 19 The Buckeye Arborist Ohio Chapter International Society of Arboriculture 1100-H Brandywine Blvd Zanesville, Ohio 43701 Phone: (614) 771-7494 Fax: (740) 452-2552 [email protected] www.ohiochapterisa.org CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED 835/0915/260 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID COLUMBUS, OH PERMIT NO. 8755