Backfilling Around Trees

Mark M · April 17, 2003, 04:38:35 PM

Is the a rule of thumb about backfilling around trees? I know some species are very intolerant yet others must be able to adapt. I was out looking at some trees in a new development and they must have put 3-4 foot of fill around a bunch of cottonwoods. I can't imagine they will survive.

Mark

Tillaway · April 17, 2003, 06:19:50 PM

I don't know about yours but the ones out here are pretty hard to kill.

Jeff · April 17, 2003, 06:32:26 PM

At one time I was told no more then 4 inches per year. Can't rembmer who when where or why. Its just in a brain file.

ohsoloco · April 17, 2003, 06:39:27 PM

Maybe they'll die soon, Mark...I thought you were looking for a bunch of cottonwood to saw anyway :D :D :D

Minnesota_boy · April 17, 2003, 06:42:41 PM

Be sure to pressure wash off all that fill dirt so you can saw clear to the bottom. :D

Jeff · April 17, 2003, 07:08:32 PM

Quotethey must have put 3-4 foot of fill around...

Mark, are you really "they"?
Did the dump run out and you have stooped low enough to get more logs that you are asking if you put ENOUGH dirt around those trees?

Mark M · April 17, 2003, 09:15:17 PM

Hey that's a DanG good idea Jeff! 8)

If it is only 4 inches then all I have to do is put 4.5 inches of fill instead of 4 feet! Not near as much wheelbarrow work that way. :D

My next door neighboor has a walnut tree about 4 inch DKH (diameter knee high - its not very tall). I was thinking about rigging up a big mirror to give it a little more light. I can reach it with my hose to give it water this summer and this winter I could put an electric blanket around it to keep it warm. Maybe all this extra attention will help it grow a little faster so that maybe in 20 years or so I can saw a couple of 2x4's when he isn't looking