Coping with Clay: Trees to Suite Sites, Sites to Suit Trees

Abstract

Soils high in clay content are subject to widespread springtime wetness and poor aeration for tree root systems. Selection of kinds of trees tolerant of soil adversities and preparation of planting places for better accommodation of the selected trees are concurrent needs that must be meshed if there are to be enduring urban landscapes. Selection of better urban trees should be based primarily upon ecological attributes, including geographic and edaphic origins. Planting places should be conducive to rapid root proliferation and establishment following transplanting.