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It’s a time to appreciate what trees do
Photo Credit: UF/IFAS
Jo Leyte-Vidal - Master Gardener Volunteer
Sadly, so many people look at a tree as messy because it drops leaves, or acorns, or creates shade on the grass, or grows too tall. They forget that trees give us the oxygen we breathe, hold the soil in place, create cool places in the summer heat, take up carbon dioxide out of the air and store it in the ground, create curb appeal in the landscape, break up the force of the wind, create privacy, add color to our lives, absorb noise and dust, and clean air of noxious gases.
Take a ride through our tree-lined streets and then travel through some heavily-built areas without trees.
Feel the difference.
February is the month in which trees are usually trimmed/ pruned and this is not always done properly.
A live oak is a very large tree with very low-growing branches and should have 60 feet of space in which to grow. This tree has a very low center of gravity and is heavily leafed which gives it great stability and strength. Forgetting all this, they are often planted in places that are inappropriate, such as parking lots.
In order to maximize all the benefits trees provide, let’s consider the mature size of the tree and plant it where it will flourish.
Then, on the cold days of winter, or the hot days of summer – relax and enjoy your well positioned tree.
While National Arbor Day is always in April, Florida's Arbor Day is the third Friday in January. In 2025 that date is January 17th.
This early date is perfect for planting trees in our area. The trees have time to start establishing roots before our dry season.
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