Evaluating the Planting Site

What are some factors of growing space that influence tree growth?

How do the various climate factors impact site selection for a tree?

Describe how the different tree characteristics influence plant selection?

Hardiness:

Deciduous or evergreen:

Form:

Size (mature):

Flowers:

Fruit:

Color:

Other plant features:

What are some considerations to make when selecting between native and introduced plants?

What are examples of desirable characteristics of nursery stock?

Understand advantages and disadvantages of bare-root stock, balled-and-burlapped stock, and container stock.

Describe characteristics of an ideal soil for tree growth.

How does soil texture influence soil structure, permeability, water-holding capacity and drainage.

Understand the process of water movement through soils of different soil textures and the terminology; (bulk density, gravitational water, field capacity, wilting point, available and unavailable water).

Know the 6 macronutrients and 7 micronutrients essential for tree growth. What nutrients are available to trees from the air and water?

What is cation exchange capacity, AND how does this process influence soil fertility and tree growth?

What is soil reaction? How does soil pH influence nutrient availability? How can it be modified?