How to Start Trees Off Right

What a shame, then, that only half of the trees planted in urbanized areas will even live 13 to 20 years on average. Short-lived trees bring disappointment and often fall short of bringing a reasonable return on the investment of planting and maintenance costs. 

This issue suggests a better foundation for planting trees that last long into the future. To do this, we have drawn upon the work of award-winning landscape architect Jim Urban. In his book, Up By Roots, Urban has condensed a wealth of scientific information and field experience into 10 principles. With his permission and that of the book’s publisher, the International Society of Arboriculture, these principles are outlined briefly in the following pages. Although intended primarily for professional landscape designers, they can and should be applied by anyone who is planning to plant trees. For greater detail and elaboration on each principle, we enthusiastically direct you to Up By Roots.