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How to Plant a Tree

As we drive along the overcrowded highways, constricted city streets, and coarse town roads, in a hurry to get to a place that isn’t going anywhere, we are often preoccupied with the events of the day to notice the mighty statues stationed a stone throw from the asphalt. We are in too much of a hurry to realize the important ecological impact of trees. As clear cutting practices destroy once beautifully forested areas, it has become evident that humans, the planet, and its species cannot survive without this wonderful gift from nature.

Trees provide a number of important ecological functions. Trees protect land from erosion and decreasing topsoil caused by wind and flooding. By filtering toxins in the air, absorbing carbon dioxide, and producing oxygen, trees are essential for all life.

During harsh periods of drought, trees store water which helps protect the environment. Forests protect the habitat and food sources for plants and animals. Not only are trees indispensable for maintaining a natural balance, planting trees is a wonderful way to beautify your land and neighborhood.

SELECTION

Two important factors to consider when choosing a planting area are the soil characteristics and the drainage system. Also, you should plant trees indigenous to your area so they can survive without harming other plant life.

WHERE TO PLANT

Ask your local tree nursery staff about concerns as: "how big the tree will grow, will the branches reach power lines, your home, or hang over the street, and will the roots eventually damage your foundation, well, or walkways.”(1.)

HOW TO DIG THE HOLE

Dig deep enough for the tree’s extensive root system. Make sure the tree is placed on firm ground. The soil should be pressed securely around the roots. Mixing bone meal or decomposed manure will help the tree become strongly rooted. Make sure to remove any rocks or refuse from the soil. The ground should be completely saturated.

WATERING AND BACKFILL

Quality local topsoil should be used to fill in the rest of the hole. Soak the entire backfill with water. Add more soil to compensate for settling. "After planting, soil should be kept moist, not soaked. A 3 to 6 inch layer of mulch can be placed around the tree to conserve water.” (2.)

PRUNING

Beginning the second year, pruning top limbs, and broken or distorted branches helps to impede water loss.

FERTILIZING

“Organic fertilizers such as manure and mulch are better than chemicals that may destroy natural organisms in the soil.” (3.) Also, chemicals are detrimental to our wildlife friends.

Planting trees beautifies the land and helps make a healthier environment for the human population and the species that inhabit our forests.

INFORMATION SOURCES:

Ref. 1. All Species Project: Plant A Tree http://www.allspecies.org/neigh/treeplant.htm

Heartland All Species Project: 644 Charlotte, Kansas City, Missouri 64110 816/361-1230 Retrieved March 28, 2004

Ref. 2. and 3. “Planting and Growing Trees” Section VI. B. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia Standard Edition 2004

So, you have found a baby wild bird?

Every year, beginning around spring, many people find baby birds. When coming across a baby bird, some people will bring it home and raise it themselves. Although a heartfelt gesture, it is not always the best decision.

What should I do if I found a baby bird?

Most baby birds are constantly being watched by their parents. In most situations, baby birds should be left alone. There are a number of steps that should be taken if you find a baby bird on the ground:

* Determine if it is a nestling, (no feathers)or a fledgling, (has feathers) If it is a fledgling and it is hopping around with the parents still feeding it, leave it alone. They will continue feeding it.

* If it is a nestling, try to find the nest and put it back. If you are unable to locate the nest, use a butter container with holes drilled in the bottom to allow for water drainage and line the bowl with paper towel. Tack the nest container into the tree as close to the original nest as possible. Watch for the mother to come back and start feeding the baby again. Baby birds in good health will be fed and cared for again, if ill, the mother will leave again.

* Contact your local wildlife rehabilitator if the bird is sick or injured. If you are unable to reach a rehabber, contact your local Veterinarian or Government Wildlife Officer.

To maintain a baby bird, or prepare it for transport to a Veterinarian or rehabber, follow these steps:

(A.) Remember where you found the bird. This will be important for release

(B.) Prepare a container with air holes and a sheet to line the bottom of the container.

(C.) Wear protective gloves to prevent the spread of disease and parasites.

(D.) Gently place a light cloth over the bird and carefully pick it up. Place the bird gently into the container.

(E.) Warm the animal if it's cold or to keep its body temperature from dropping. Place the container on a heating pad set on low. Make sure only one end of the container is on the heating pad in case the bird feels too warm.

* Don't give it food or water

* Don't handle or bother the bird

* Keep children and pets away

Wash your hands after handling the baby bird. Wash and disinfect anything the bird was in contact with to prevent the spread of diseases or parasites to you or your pets.

A baby bird's best chance for survival is its mother! It's against the law to keep wild animals in your home if you don't have permits, even if you plan to release them.

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