Abstracts

Dickinson, Sancho and C.E. Whitcomb. 1981. Why nurserymen should consider fall transplanting. Am. Nurseryman 153(10): 11,64-67.

Several research findings suggest fall transplanting may have advantages over spring transplanting. First, plants become established before the spring flush of growth. Second, wholesalers and retailers can spread the demand for plant material and related items over a longer period. Other advantages are more efficient use of nursery space and employees’ time and a steadier cash flow. After one growing season (seven months for spring-planted material and 11 months for fall-planted material), Japanese black pines planted in fall had more new roots, old roots, total roots, top weight, stem caliper and height than those planted in spring. Bur oak increased total roots, top weight, caliper and height when planted in fall. A similar response was observed with sawtooth oak, Pfitzer’s juniper and cluster pine. There was no difference between development of new roots, old roots, total roots, top weight, stem caliper or plant height of the Chinese pistache. All plants of all species survived fall planting except the dwarf Burford holly.

Chapman, Douglas. 1981. Ground covers adorn surfaces in shady, low maintenance areas. Weeds, Trees & Turf 20(6): 27-28.

Ground covers are a real alternative for turf in sun or shade to reduce maintenance. Many shade-loving ground covers grow especially well around trees while not competing heavily with the tree or shrub for moisture and nutrients. Further, these ground covers don’t require mowing, thus mower damage to trees is eliminated. A few of the outstanding shade-tolerant ground covers include Lily-of-the-Valley, English ivy, Plantain lily, Japanese spruge, primrose, and periwinkle. All of the aforementioned ground covers thrive in semi or full shade and prefer moist, rich fertile soil. They are outstanding as companion plants to reduce maintenance while improving the micro climate, thus helping many trees thrive.

• © 1982, International Society of Arboriculture. All rights reserved.