A beautiful tree grown on the perfect site is something to admire. Matching a tree to its native site is a small investment that will ensure a living legacy for future generations.
The right tree will improve air, soil, and water quality. It will provide shelter, food, and protection for birds and mammals. A single tree may provide a break from the wind and snow, create shade to reduce energy bills, conserve a preexisting habitat, or kickstart reforestation.
Program Goals:
- To help inform members on proper site selection and planting techniques to maximize the full potential of their landscape.
- Recommend varieties to members based on their desired function and maintenance requirements.
- Provide advice on basic pruning, harvesting (in the case of fruit trees), and maintenance of the planting site.
- Give advice on protecting trees from browsing by deer and small mammals, recovering from mechanical damage, reducing injuries from winter, and keeping trees free from pests and disease.
How Does the Program Work?
Our program is designed to help members select the best tree for their property by guiding them through preparing the site for proper planting and installation.
The Catskill Forest Association will meet with its members in spring and early summer to choose the best sites for the desired species. A rubber mat will be provided to mark the planting site and kill competing vegetation (grass, weeds, etc.) to make establishment easier.
Planting will take place in the fall. Trees will be transported and installed on the same day and provided with fencing for deer, screening for rodents and voles, and a healthy amount of mulch for the roots.
Trees will be sourced from nurseries right in the Catskills and will be chosen based on their health, growth form, and availability.
Examples of what to plant and why:
Hardy varieties of Apple, Plum, Pear, or Peach to begin a home orchard.
Large flowering ornamentals such as Maple and Tulip tree, attractive to pollinators and humans alike.
Native mast-producing species such as Oak, Hickory, or Mulberry beneficial to wildlife.
Long-lived native hardwoods perfect as a tribute, memorial, or family legacy.
Have CFA help you choose and prep your sites between March and June. Fall plantings are scheduled for September through October.
Contact Zane Lawyer for more information:
zane@catskillforest.org/ (845) 586-3054