Is Tree Canopy Key?

The concept for this podcast is fairly simple - #TreesAreKey to healthier, happier, safer communities. However, it gets a little more complicated as we delve deeper into the topics of arboriculture and forestry. As we talked about in episode 94 “Inventories Are Key”, it’s great to know what you are managing, but there are other ways to assess community forests. Listen to this episode where we discuss urban tree canopy assessment.

Species Spotlight

Hercules'-Club Zanthoxylum clava-herculis aka Prickly Ash

Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more about this small Texas native that has been used as a toothache remedy.

Biomechanics Are Key

Trees are fascinating organisms. With the ability to capture radiant energy and turn it into a chemical energy and to create something solid out of thin air, trees are truly amazing. Join us for this episode of #TreesAreKey as we begin exploring the world of tree biomechanics.

Species Spotlight

Winged Elm, Ulmus alata

Do you know how to tell the difference between this Texas native and its cousin, the Texas fall elm? Listen to this episode to learn more about a wonderful tree.

Diversity is Key

We talked about diversity a little bit in episode 24 “Species Selection Is Key” and in “Inventories Are Key”, but diversity is truly key to a healthy, resilient community forest. Join us this week as we delve deeper into this fascinating topic.

Species Spotlight

Mexican plum, Prunus Mexicana, is a visual treat this time of year. Often one of the first to bloom, Mexican plum is a harbinger of spring and makes a delicious jelly in the summer. Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more about this drought tolerant species.

Inventories Are Key

It is easier and more efficient to care for something if you know what you are dealing with. This can be as simple as identifying the tree in your backyard (episode 9, Keys to Tree ID) or as complex as knowing where all the ash trees are in your community. Join us this week as we talk about why inventories are key.

Species Spotlight

Blackjack Oak, Quercus marilandica goes by many names, yet it is unlikely you will find one in your local nursery or garden center. This tree is an important component of many Texas woodlands and forests. Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more.

Trees are Key to Wildlife

In the past we have talked about possible animal damage to trees. Tune in this week as we discuss the importance of trees for wildlife.

Species Spotlight

Red mulberry, Morus rubra, is an important wildlife species that can also provide us with a tasty treat. Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more.

Costs Are Key

Tree care can be costly, but it isn’t difficult to find an estimate for care. Just follow the recommendations found in episode 2, Keys to Hiring a Tree Care Professional, and solicit three qualified, credentialed arborists to bid on the work. However, many people do not realize there are often indirect costs in maintaining your tree. Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more.

Species Spotlight - Rocky Mountain Douglas-Fir Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca

This week’s species is not a great choice for most yards, but is a great example of the diversity of our native Texas trees. There’s even a bit of a mystery associated with this tree. Tune in to the latest #TAK to learn more.

Keys to Being Social For Trees

One of the biggest challenges our #industree faces is obscurity. Many people know what a landscape architect is, but have no idea what the responsibilities are for an arborist or urban forester.

Listen this week as we talk about Keys to Being Social for Trees. Social media is a great tool for reaching more people and helping them understand the importance of trees and caring for them.

Species Spotlight - Arizona Cypress Cupressus arizonica ssp. arizonica

This week’s tree is a large evergreen that will add interest and habitat to your yard year-round. It would even make a great living Christmas tree. Listen to this week’s #TreesAreKey to learn more.

Keys to Professionalism

Arboriculture and forestry are wonderful careers, but it can be a struggle to be economically valued. One thing we can do to help with this concern is to increase our professionalism. Listen to this episode of Trees Are Key to learn the Keys to Professionalism.

Species Spotlight

Deciduous holly, Ilex decidua, is a wonderful large shrub or small tree that has great winter interest. Listen to this episode to learn about this holly that drops its leaves for the winter.

It has been an amazing year for the #TreesareKey podcast. Thanks to our loyal listeners we have hit over 25,000 listens. Tune in to this week’s episode for a review of some of the best discussions of 2016.

Did you know that you may be helping your trees when you remove mistletoe so you can hang it inside?

However, mistletoe can have a dark side.

Listen to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more.

Species Spotlight

Black Cherry Prunus serotina var. serotine

Tune in to this episode of #TreesAreKey to learn more about one the most valuable hardwoods in the Eastern United States.