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A typical large homeowners’
association’s landscape with maturing trees might have
a value of a million dollars or more. Such an investment deserves
professional management. Too often an Assocation’s board
decides "it is time to cut all the trees" and solicits
bids from local tree contractors. Few recognize the difference
between cut and prune. Unfortunately, most tree contractors
simply provide just what they are asked, rather than offering
sound management counsel on how best to maintain the tree investment.
Rarely do all trees need simultaneous pruning. They
are as individual in their needs as are we - their guardians. The absolute
worst is the directive sometimes given that "all the trees are
to be cut heavy," so that they will not need it again so soon.
Trying to control size through heavy pruning will result in higher maintenance
costs. The best pruning approach is to allow the natural characteristics
of the tree to develop. If the tree is too big for the location, it
should be removed to allow nearby trees to continue developing. Another
option would be to replace it with a more suitable species. Secondly,
heavy cutting of established limb wood initiates decaying weak structured
trees that will require more frequent maintenance to minimize an increased
hazard to people and property.
The management approach is to identify a baseline
of needs. Then, in a prioritized fashion, itemize the needed work by
species, season or urgency. With this data, a forecast of many years
into the future is made with realistic budgets of meaningful and necessary
tree care. A good plan must also address the cultural problems of the
site, like water, light, space and soil conditions.
A professionally prepared management plan allows
any non-tree-expert to efficiently manage financial resources
to best control the living resources they are entrusted to
preserve. With properly managed care, trees will be precious
gifts for future generations.
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