Tangled Trees

Short discussion on habitat trees. What are they, why do we need them, and how do we create or maintain them in the urban landscape?

Disclaimer: This is not a "how to" type episode, I cannot tell you how to plant or plan for biodiversity in your region. I also refer to averages through this discussion, I am aware that there are and will always be special cases when unexpected growth, death, and toxicity can occur. 

My reference to 'urban soil(s)' is referring specifically to highly disturbed soils in urban environments, not to untouched woodlots or green spaces in urban landscapes (although, these can easily become degraded with poor management). 

Information on early and late succession species: 

(For more information check out the Podcast: Completely Arbortrary by Casey Clapp & Alex Crowson)

Early Succession Species:

• Also known as pioneer species
• Grow quickly and reproduce rapidly
• Short lifespan
• Tolerate harsh environmental conditions (e.g. high temperatures, low moisture levels)
• Often have small size and simple structures
• Generally have high dispersal ability

Late Succession Species:

• Also known as climax species
• Grow slowly and reproduce slowly
• Long lifespan
• Require stable environmental conditions to thrive
• Usually require nutrient-rich soils.
• Often have large size and complex structures
• Generally have low dispersal ability

The under-appreciated role of trees for stormwater management. Limitations and how to determine or recognize the value of trees in the urban landscape. This episode covers the basics of stormwater management, traditional vs green infrastructure or natural management strategies, biodiversity,  and the responsibility urban foresters and arborists have to educate and engage the public. 

If you enjoyed the episode, please share it. You can also connect with me on Instagram @climbtrees.raisebees - please send topic requestions or any questions you have. 

If you have questions about specific information in this episode, I can happily provide the reference material and/or academic papers. I am always happy to discuss content and the topics covered. 

Answering a few of the common questions received on Instagram, including a short discussion on black locust and its ability to fix atmospheric Nitrogen and how it can be used in companion planting.  

*If you have questions about the resources or want to share academic papers or information, please connect with me on Instagram @climbtrees.raisebees

Disclaimer: *This podcast is not a substitute for technical or academic training. Please seek additional resources before referring to or utilizing any information or techniques discussed in this podcast.*

Throwback to an original episode (with some never before released behind-the-scenes content) of the Tangled Trees Podcast to kick off a new mini-series called "Recording with Friends." We discuss invasive insects, fungi, decay, and education and how the industry changes with the appearance of diseases and pests. 

*Disclaimer - some terminology used in this episode may not be correct. Please, refer to current textbooks and research before applying this knowledge or terminology. The original recording was released in 2020. 

Part 3 of the soil mini-series is a discussion covering soil formation and how soil formation can influence, enhance, or inhibit plant growth.  

*(Part 1 - Soils for Urban Trees & Part 2 - Decomposition)

A short discussion focusing on tree diversity, monoculture and the role of biodiversity in urban landscapes. 

What is decomposition and how might it impact tree growth? A brief overview of organic nutrient input into soils and how we can support the nutrient cycling process. 

This episode focuses on the basic concept of urban soils as well as common issues arborists and urban foresters may face with urban soils as a rooting medium. 

A simplified introduction to retrenchment pruning and management for tree preservation. 

Can we blame the storm or rain alone? Why hurricanes and wind events should be a signal that urban forest management needs to change.