The original developers of Heritage Hill Community had a vision that included mature shade trees lining the streets.  As the community matured, so would the trees.  To achieve this vision, the developers chose the Ash tree to line the neighborhood streets for a uniform, consistent look.  What the developers overlooked was the strict use of one varietal made their decision vulnerable to attack.  The Ash tree's nemesis, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), migrated to Kentucky about the same time that the community was being developed.  The result, streets are now lined with Ash trees in various stages of decline instead of healthy growth.

 

When EAB larvae feed on Ash trees, their galleries injure the living tissue that carries organic nutrients, in particular, sugar and water, to all parts of the plant where needed. In trees, this living tissue makes up the plant’s circulatory system. Over time, the tree begins to die from the upper canopy down to the ground.  As the tree becomes more and more infested, the injury becomes more severe. Large branches or even the trunk can be cut through the bark all the way around by the larval galleries. Once the tree's vascular system is damaged, it is not healthy enough to effectively deliver insecticide or treatment options up the trunk and into the branches and canopy.  As a result, treatment options against an EAB infestation are typically inconsistent or unreliable. 

 

The good news is that there are over 60 trees that are native to Kentucky that are hardy enough to thrive in urban settings and all those choices will ensure a community of diverse, thriving trees. 

 

Before you select a replacement tree, select a species that is hardy and suited to the Kentucky climate. Another important consideration is picking the correct time of year to plant.  People often think about planting trees in the spring and summer months when trees are in flower.  However, the ideal time to plant is during the tree's dormant season, after leaf drop in the fall and before bud-break in the spring. This time period is the least stressful to the tree because it is not actively trying to grow.

 

Before purchasing your tree, there is homework to do. One of the most important things to do is to thoroughly research the tree species before the purchase and planting. The end goal is to plant the right tree in the right place. To ensure this, consider the environmental factors of your potential site such as; minimum temperature, available moisture, soil type, amount of light, pollution and soil compaction. Also consider the tree's purpose; Why are you planting this tree? Consider your goal and find the species that suits your purpose best. Such purposes include specimen planting, shade, aesthetics, wildlife, windbreaks and screens. Size matters with trees: The potential height and width of your tree is one of the most important factors to consider. All too often, urban trees are cut down because "the tree got too big!" The truth is, the tree didn't get too big, it was planted in the wrong place. Large trees can lift sidewalks, grow into pipes or utility lines, block windows, views and shade gardens. Finally consider the crown Shape - What form will your tree have? What shape suits you best? (this information was summarized from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, Division of Forestry Tree Planting Tips web page at: http://forestry.ky.gov/Urban%20Forestry%20and%20Community%20Programs/Pages/TreePlanting.aspx

 

Its a sad day when a community loses a mature tree.  But with a little research, proper planning and patience, your property will continue to promote a green community and the increased variety of trees will only make fall and spring color changes more dramatic.

 

1.  Louisville Grows is a non-profit organization dedicated to growing a just and sustainable community in Louisville, through urban agriculture, urban forestry, and environmental education. They have a web page describing 30 recommended trees for urban planting here:

 

2.  The University of Kentucky's Department of Horticulture page is here:

 

3.  The Kentucky State Energy and Environment Cabinet Department for Natural Resources web page (paraphrased in this article) is here:

 

Bruce Coyne

HHCA BOD

August 9, 2016