(A) The trees recommended in § 152.519 have minimal maintenance requirements. However, all trees must receive a certain degree of care, especially during and immediately after planting.
(B) To protect an investment in new trees, the developer should ensure that the following guidelines are followed when planting.
(1) The best times for planting are early spring and early fall. Trees planted in the summer run the risk of dehydration.
(2) Plant all trees at least three and one-half feet from the end of head-in parking spaces to prevent damage from car overhangs.
(3) Dig the tree pit at least one foot wider than the root ball and at least six inches deeper than the ball’s vertical dimension.
(4) Especially in areas where construction activity has compacted the soil, the bottom of the pit should be scarified or loosened with a pickaxe or shovel.
(5) After the pit is dug, observe subsurface drainage conditions. Where poor drainage exists, the tree pit should be dug at least an additional 12 inches and the bottom should be filled with coarse gravel.
(6) Backfill should include a proper mix of soil, peat moss, and nutrients. All roots must be completely covered. Backfill should be thoroughly watered as it is placed around the roots.
(7) Immediately after it is planted, the tree should be supported with stakes and guy wires to hold it firmly in place as its root system begins to develop. Staked trees will become stronger more quickly. Remove stakes and ties after one year.
(8) Spread at least three inches of mulch over the entire excavation in order to retain moisture and keep down weeds. An additional three-inch saucer of mulch should be provided to form a basin around the trunk of the tree. This saucer helps catch and retain moisture.
(9) The lower trunks of new trees should be wrapped with burlap or paper to prevent evaporation and sun scald. The wrapping should remain on the tree for at least one year.
(10) Conscientious post planting care, especially watering, pruning and fertilizing, is a must for street and parking lot trees. Branches of new trees may be reduced by as much as a third to prevent excessive evaporation.
(Ord. passed 12-20-2001) Penalty, see § 152.999