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Making It Grow! News Articles

October 23, 2005

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It is the time of year when our trees start showing their magnificient
colors. From Caesars Head to Hilton Head and from Aiken to the
Grandstrand, the forests throughout the Palemetto State will be a
rainbow of colors. It is also the time of year when we need to think
about the trees that will be planted around the home landscape during
late fall and winter.

In selecting trees for planting, let's not forget the great native
material we can use around our homes or businesses. Oak, maple, river
birch, and the southern magnolia are just a few of the native trees we
can use in South Carolina.

In my opinion, the oak is without a doubt the most majestic tree one
can select for planting. Not only does it have class, but the oak
provides valuable food for wildlife. Its acorns are high in protein
and energy which are needed by wildlife in late winter.

One of the most well-known native oaks is the willow oak. It grows
quite large and and fast. Its couisin, the the white oak, is a slow
grower but it is a contribution you can make to posterity. I had a pin
oak moved off of a ditch bank on my property and placed in my backyard
several years ago. After the first year of transplanting, it showed
significant growth.

The live oak is the grandaddy of them all. The morphology of this tree
stands out in any landscape. Live oaks dominate our low-country but
now are being used more throughout the midlands.

Maples are good choices for shade and color. 'October Glory' is faster
growing variety than the traditional sugar maple. Unfortunately,
faster growing trees have weaker wood. This makes them more
susceptible to ice and wind damage.

One cannot discuss trees in the South without mentioning the magnolia.
This native tree will fascinate you with its shiny evergreen leaves
and its fragrant white flowers. For those homeowners with limited
space, the 'Little Gem' would be better suited for compact yards. Many
magnolias do require a little maintenance when their leaves fall to
the ground.

We live in a "fast world" and the river birch is a fast grower. Its
peeling bark is an ornamental attraction. However, it is not the best
tree to look at during the winter months. The river birch does like to
attract aphids.

There are many other native trees one can use. Native dogwoods with
their spring flowers do quite well in partial shade. This understory
tree always reminds us of the coming of Easter each spring.

The selection of any tree for planting requires careful consideration.
It will be with for a long time. Discuss the characteristics of each
tree you plant with your local nursery. Make sure you are planting it
correctly and in the right spot. It will provide you and your heirs
enjoyment for many years to come.