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HomeMy WebLinkAboutExhibit 5EXHIBIT A PLANTING AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES A. Planting Site factors which influence long-term survivability should be considered: overhead and underground utilities, sidewalks, sign conflicts, traffic visibility, light poles, right-of-way or site improvements, size of planting spade/site,. etc. All planting stock or replacement stock must be Florida Grade #1 or better. All synthetic or non -biodegradable material such as nylon rope, synthetic wrap, treated burlap, etc. must be removed from the root ball before planting. All biodegradable material should be removed from the upper 1/3 of the root ball. Precautions should be taken to eliminate any material from extending above the spit surface where it can act as a wick and dry the surrounding soil. r If trees are planted with wire basket around the root ball, it is recommended that the top two tiers of wire be outland removed after the root bail.is set in the planting hole. The planting hole should be at least 3-5 times the diameter of the root ball (where possible) and the same depth as the root ball. Position the tree or palm in the center of the planting hole with the top of the root ball even with the surrounding soil surface'. Backfill with soil from the planting site, if it is not contaminated. All large rocks should be removed. When the hole is half full, slowly water to saturate the soil and remove air pockets, then continue to fill the hole with soil. It is not recommended that large amounts of organic matter be incorporated into the-backfli.-Rakethe-soil evenly around the entire'planting Water thoroughly to remove air pockets, secure the soil around the roots, and provide nourishment. �. B. Mulching Mulch an area at least three times the diameter of the root ball to a depth of 2-4" with wood chips, bark mulch, shredded mulch, leaves or pine needles. Keep the mulch several inches away from the tree or palm trunk. Replenish mulch as it decomposes maintaining a 2-4" layer over the life of the project. C. Staking Stake only if necessary; for example, if the tree or palm will not stand on its own due to potential vandalism or strong winds. Use flexible materials such as strapping or commercially available ties that give as the tree diameter increases and as the tree moves. Biodegradable material is recommended. Do not use wire even if the wire is inside rubber hosing. Stakes and ties shoutd remain on the trees no longer that one year to avoid girdling. D. Pruning At the time of planting, only dead, damaged, rubbing or cross braches or fronds should be removed. Remove sucker sprouts from the base of the tree after planting. Corrective/structural pruning can begin approximately one year after planting. Do not remove more than 1/3 of the live crown during one growing season. E. Watering Establish a regular watering schedule and follow it. Slow deep watering is recommended. Additional water may be needed during hot or dry periods. As tree or palm growth progresses, be sure to water outward (away from the trunk) to the surrounding soil area. This will promote the outward growth and spread of roots. Various species of trees or palms and/or soil types may require varied degrees of watering. Soil moisture and tree health should be monitored and irrigation adjusted accordingly. Non -irrigated sites need to be monitored more closely. F. Fertilizing Begin a fertilization program within the first year of planting. Broadcast fertilizing or fertilizer plugs/stakes are recommended.. Fertilize lightly after the first year using a balanced fertilizer (rates should be based on the size _of the tree or palm and -any -special nutrient requirements). if micronutrient deficiencies are suspected, have a soil test completed and supplement the• fertilization program accordingly.