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Identity Crisis: A broadleaf conifer, the fern pine is known for its versatility: it can be grown as a shrub, hedge or tree.
Always request credentials and references when hiring
By Tony Tomeo
Most people who read this column are garden enthusiasts and probably perform most or all of the work in their gardens. However, when large trees need attention, it is necessary to have the work done by experts.
Those of us with maintenance gardeners have probably had problems at one time or another--most probably involving hedge shears. Most garden species eventually recover from such abuse or can be replaced.
However, when working with large trees, improper maintenance can be much more damaging. Replacement is certainly not as simple as for other plants, since changes in sun exposure affect many of the plants in the area shaded by the removed tree. Removal can also be considerably expensive.
As with gardeners or other horticultural "professionals," good arborists (a horticulturist who specializes in tree care) are difficult to find. Fortunately, the few good ones are exceptionally good. In fact, some of the best in the state are here in Santa Clara County. Because trees are usually the most important investment in a landscape, it is important to identify a qualified arborist.
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), an organization dedicated to the promotion of professionalism in the various tree care industries, is a very useful source. Those who are recognized by the ISA as certified arborists have passed a series of tests relevant to their expertise. Certification also indicates more than successful completion of the exam.
Certification shows arborists take their work seriously enough to be involved with the ISA. This is an effective means to stay in contact with other professionals and to exchange information. I cannot say enough good things about the ISA, and I recommend businesses supervised by ISA-certified arborists.
I am perhaps too critical of arborists, but I prefer those who know their trees. Those who know the differences between species (and can speak the Latin to prove it) have obviously done their homework. Those who think redwoods, pines, firs, spruce, cedars and cypress are all the same should be avoided like Rhus diversiloba (poison oak).
With tree removal, certification is not as important. Even I can cut down small trees. However, it's best to know that whoever does the work can do it safely without crushing surrounding plants, fences or the neighbor's Buick. With any tree work, insurance should be required. Smaller companies that might be considered may advertise that they are bonded and insured; otherwise, you might want to ask.
It is not common to ask arborists for references, but many are well-known for their quality work. Some of the best may be found by asking friends and neighbors who maintains their trees, and especially if they have been satisfied with the work. Blair Glenn of Saratoga Tree Service has done business with one of his first clients since the mid-1970s! Those who do bad work, or "hackers," are usually not around long.
If it is necessary to find someone to perform tree work in the phone book or newspaper, those who promote procedures that are horticulturally incorrect, such as topping, have no business in your garden. Real arborists work by the rules. B. J. Johnson of Commercial Tree Care would be the first to say to a request for topping: "We won't do it. If you want it done, call someone else."
I also find that those who advertise too many other services are not specialized enough. Wood chips, firewood and stump services are acceptable. However, those who build fences, decks, ponds or irrigation systems or haul trash are too diversified to be full-time, dedicated arborists.
Low rates should also be a concern. It is best to spend more for good work than save a bit only to spend considerably more on repair or removal of a damaged tree.
Plant of the Week: Fern pine
This is neither a fern nor a pine. However, it can be a tree, shrub or hedge. The fern pine, Podocarpus gracilior, is very versatile and easy to grow. It grows in partial shade to full sun, although may be burned if surrounded by reflective surfaces, such as pavement, walls or roofs. Very old trees can reach 50 feet tall in the ground; plants may stay small in large tubs for many years. Well-behaved roots are easy on pavement.
With selective pruning, fern pines may be maintained as informal hedges or screens. Sheared hedges lack the appealing soft texture, but perform well. Chlorosis can be a problem, but is easily remedied with fertilization. Healthy color is slightly grayish green. Foliage is linear, like wide pine needles. Incidentally, the fern pine is classified as a broadleaf conifer. It is commonly available, but espaliered specimens should be avoided as modern cultivars are just too rigid.
Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be reached at 408.358.2574.
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Willow Glen, California Since 1992
