Trees of Strength On-line Registration

Registration of Participation in Trees of Strength

Trees of Strength is a tree planting program remembering those who died from the terrorist attack September 11, 2001 and in honor of those who serve in our armed forces and those who continue to ensure our everyday freedoms. We ask that a red, white and blue ribbon be placed on the tree when planted or a plaque, like the one dedicated at the Extension Arboretum planting, placed near the tree, and register the tree with our office (name, address of who planted the tree, where planted, and who the tree is dedicated to). The State Master Gardener office is keeping track of all trees planted across the state. We would like to plant at least one tree for every person who died. A list of trees especially suited for the coastal counties was developed. The trees on the list reflect strength through different aspects, typically the trees live a long time, have low insect and disease problems, some are evergreen, and some their bark has a muscular appearance when older. A local list is available. For the State Master Gardener tree list and tons of other information on trees, you may log on to: http://www.treesofstrength.org.

The program runs through December 31, 2002. We are asking people to plant trees now until December. We are working with the schools to plant trees on the anniversary, September 11, 2002. Please join us in planting a Tree of Strength. If you would like to have someone come out to your tree planting, please call me, Mary Ann Metcalf at 452-6393.

Thank you for taking the time to complete this form!

Do Not Plant Too Deep!

• Money is wasted when trees are planted too deep.
• Do not bury roots in small deep holes.
• Do not wrap trees.
• Do not amend the soil, unless the soil is very poor.
• Do not brace so tightly that the tree cannot sway.
• Do not brace with wire in a hose.
• Do not fertilize at planting time.
• Do not plant grass or flowers near the tree.
• Do not remove branches to balance crown with roots.

Tips for Proper Planting:

• Plant at depth where roots spread from the trunk.
• Prepare a planting site, not just a hole in the ground.
• Loosen the soil far beyond the dripline of the tree.
• Remove sides of wire basket after tree is in place.
• Brace the tree only if it will not remain upright in a moderate wind.
• Brace with broad, belt-like materials that won't injure the bark.
• Mulch away from the trunk at least to dripline with composted material.
• Keep soil moist, not water logged, to the depth of the roots.
• Water beyond planting area to encourage root growth.
• Remove dead and dying branches.
• Wait until the second growing season to begin training cuts for shaping and to begin fertilizing.
• When back filling, be sure to tamp gently to remove air spaces.

Contact Information

Mary Ann Metcalf, C.A.
Urban Forestry Agent and Pesticide Coordinator
New Hanover County Center