City Trees is a premier publication focused on urban + community forestry. In each issue, you’ll learn how to best manage the trees in your community and more!
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1136305
sublime. There are so many gorgeous images, par- ticularly the one of golden chain tree (Laburnum x waterii 'Vossii') in full bloom with drooping racemes of golden-yellow flowers. Interestingly, Dirr and Warren do not recommend it for street tree use for a number of valid reasons. Dirr and Warren expose "bad" taxa, such as five- stamen tamarisk (Tamarix chinensis): "Our advice is simple: don't plant it." Other ornamentals con- sidered invasive, such as Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), Chinese parasol tree (Firmiana simplex), and empress tree (Paulownia tomentosa), receive endorsements for breeding or genetically engi- neering sterile cultivars. They include caveats with some species, such as recommending only male Chinese pistache (Pistacia chinensis) cultivars. This book has no bibliography or glossary, although some terms are defined in parentheses. I would have liked to have those sections as well as appendices that organize the species by specific characteristics and functions. I disagree with the authors' contention of the por- tability of this 7.5 lb. book, but agree with this statement: "While a computer is great for seeking out very specific information, we believe in the power of a book to encompass a subject within a framework of the authors' knowledge." I feel that print simply lacks the interactive power of electronic formats, such as with Dirr's searchable DVD-ROM of 2013 and iPhone app of 2010, that allow users to glean and compile information. Other electronic sources improve accessibility with hyperlinks and other fea- tures that connect with other digital resources. The Tree Book provides an entrée to a diverse collection of taxa, but as with any reference, it shouldn't be your only source for selecting trees. Augment the foundational information in The Tree Book with the knowledge and experience of local and regional producers, practitioners, and specialists familiar with the challenges and nuances of their respective growing areas. Readers of The Tree Book will experience a strong kinship with the authors' passion for the beauty and functionality of trees and a greater appreciation of this oft-repeated quote: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." SavATree can help you look at the distribution of tree canopy across your city and relate it to the biophysical and social environment. Mapping is a tool to inform program, policy, and practice to identify opportunities for increasing environmental equity. We can assist with both mapping and practice support. savatree.com Trees | Shrubs | Lawn | Deer | Ticks | Consulting Where are the trees in your city? Contact us (888) 750-7977 www.savatree.com/consulting MEMBER This map, indicating tree canopy prioritization, addresses the need for green infrastructure, heat island relief and environmental justice. It factors in corresponding maps with the following variables: minority populations, median household income, impervious surfaces, surface temperature and existing tree canopy. Study Area Outline Highest Priority Medium Lowest Priority Census Block Groups Tree Canopy Prioritization