COMMENTS:
The Consulting Arborist’s survey of the city block of Ocean Avenue (south side), Mission Street (west side), 7th Avenue (north side) and San Carlos Street (east side) yielded the following tree species and numbers of trees, as follows:
Coast Live Oak: 8
Coast Redwood: 7
Sweetgum: 7
Holly Oak: 6
Blackwood Acacia: 3
London Plane: 3
Catalina Ironwood: 2
Monterey Pine: 2
Island Oak: 1
TOTAL: 39 Trees
In the City’s Local Coastal Program, there is a Forest Management Plan, Appendix G, CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, RECOMMENDED TREE SPECIES LIST. The “LIST” states, in part, as follows:
Our forest is based on the concept of a two-story canopy consisting of native and indigenous trees and is one that the Commission feels is essential for the continuation of Carmel’s forest. Monterey pines (Pinus radiata) and cypresses (Cypressus macrocarpa) are the primary upper canopy trees of the forest and the planting of these species shall receive the greatest priority in appropriate situations. Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) is the preferred lower canopy tree. In general, the native indigenous trees (pine, cypress, and oaks) will do well planted at any location throughout the City.
A healthy forest requires a variety of tree species to preclude a single disease from causing irreversible damage. Therefore, the following list of tree species, including growth characteristics, is provided for those circumstances where one of the preferred tree species is not appropriate. Native species are favored.
Thus, the “preferred” trees are Monterey Pines, Monterey Cypresses and Coast Live Oaks; and “native species are favored” when “one of the preferred tree species is not appropriate.” Yet, as this one commercial block survey reveals, of 39 total trees, only 10 trees are “preferred” trees; that is, 2 Monterey Pines and 8 Coast Live Oaks. Furthermore, of the most recently planted trees, none of them are Monterey Pines, Monterey Cypresses or Coast Live Oaks; rather, there are Coast Redwoods (7) and Sweetgums (7).
Coast Redwoods are considered the tallest trees in the world, commonly 200 ft – 300 ft tall and 23 ft. diameter. And even though the City’s RECOMMENDED TREE SPECIES LIST states that Coast Redwoods “grow to 50-60 feet in our area,” other cities typically recommend the planting of redwoods only where the planting space area exceeds 15 feet in width (ex. Novato, CA., http://www.ci.novato.ca.us/cd/forms/CDP045.pdf) and areas such as “parks, greenbelts, or large front yards with no overhead obstructions.” (ex. Stockton, CA., http://www.stocktongov.com/parks/trees/MasterTreeList.pdf).
And even though the City’s RECOMMENDED TREE SPECIES LIST states that Sweet Gums grow “to 40-feet in coastal climate,” other cities typically advise the planting of Sweetgums in 5 feet or more wide planting space areas or in parks and greenbelts (ex. Stockton, CA., http://www.stocktongov.com/parks/trees/MasterTreeList.pdf). Even Barrie D. Coate concluded, “I suggest that since most cities are no longer using sweetgums as street trees that the city of Carmel consider that decision as well.”
Furthermore, of the 39 trees on the surveyed block, Blackwood Acacia and Island Oak are not even on the City’s RECOMMENDED TREE SPECIES LIST and Catalina Ironwood, Holly Oak, London Plane and Sweetgum are non-native; 22 of the 39 total trees are either not on the “LIST” or non-native. And the City’s recent planting of young Coast Redwoods and Sweetgums is prevalent in the city overall, not just this surveyed city block. Ergo, the Acting City Forester is incorrectly interpreting and implementing the City’s Local Coastal Program and Municipal Code, particularly with regard to the planting of the three “preferred” trees, namely Monterey Pine, Monterey Cypress and Coast Live Oak. Moreover, the city’s planting of Coast Redwoods and Sweetgums is not only in contradiction to the LCP and Municipal Code, but it is unwise due to the typically too small planter space openings given to trees in the city’s commercial sidewalks.
One of the trees surveyed on San Carlos St., Tree # 37 Coast Redwood, is a young tree. It replaced Monterey Pine (9’5”) “Straight Arrow,” one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Heritage Trees. Regarding tree replacement species, the Municipal Code, 17.48.080 Tree Removal and Replacement, states, as follows: “Replacement trees shall be the same species as the removed tree or another species listed on the Tree Species List and as approved by the City Forester except that particular emphasis shall be placed on maintaining a significant population of native Monterey Pine, coast live oaks and Monterey Cypress on a City-wide basis.” Yet the removed Monterey Pine was replaced by a Coast Redwood.
CONCLUSIONS:
What conclusions can be drawn from Barrie Coate’s “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES” report?
• To the extent the City implements a tree policy, the city violates the Local Coastal Program and the Municipal Code with regard to replacement tree species; that is, Monterey Pines, Monterey Cypresses and Coast Live Oaks, the “preferred” trees, are not being planted in the commercial district. Note: The planting of approximately 32 Monterey Pines and Cypresses along the south side of Ocean Avenue between San Antonio & Camino Real and north of Ocean Avenue at Del Mar Avenue in late October 2006 was initiated by Friends of Carmel Forest and made possible by a grant from California ReLeaf.
• The city does not have uniform standards for planter space openings with regard to their placement on the sidewalk and size.
• Too many planter space openings are too small for existing trees in the commercial district.
• This one commercial block symbolizes the City’s neglect of Carmel’s trees and forest over many, many years.
• While the City Council adds to reserve funds on an annual basis and presides over reserve funds totaling $9.6 million, Carmel-by-the-Sea’s “signature” Monterey Pine “urbanized” forest dies.
QUESTIONS:
Why has the Acting City Forester authorized the planting of non-native trees (Sweetgums) and poor sidewalk trees for the available planter space (Coast Redwoods), rather than implementing the LCP and Municipal Code with respect to the planting of the “preferred” trees, namely, Monterey Pines, Monterey Cypresses and Coast Live Oaks?
What will Carmel-by-the-Sea’s “urbanized” forest look like in the not to distant future if Monterey Pines, Monterey Cypresses and Coast Live Oaks are not planted in the commercial district and beyond?
REFERENCES:
General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan Coastal Resource Management Element
Urbanized Forest, Parks and Open Spaces
Carmel's forest is an “urbanized” Monterey pine forest rather than an “urban” forest...An “urbanized” forest exists before development and is characterized by its diversity in species, age and randomness in tree location resulting in meandering streets of varying width. (LUP)
To many, the “urbanized” forest is the character-defining feature that makes Carmel-by the-Sea so unique. The forest, along with the beach and ocean, is the City’s largest and most visible natural resource. Homes are nestled into the native Monterey pine and Coast Live oak on a grid of streets that yields to trees more than to engineering expediency. Upper canopy trees impart a distinctive ambiance and identity to the City. Lower canopy trees soften and provide screening of development. Together the mix of upper and lower canopy trees establishes a powerful sense of place. (LUP)
Steps must be taken to minimize the threat to existing healthy Monterey pines and new seedlings to ensure continued diversity in species, age, and location…It is essential that these and other policy directives be carried out to ensure that the Monterey pine forest landscape is protected so that the forested character of this unique coastal village is preserved. (LUP)
Forest Management Plan
Appendix G
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
RECOMMENDED TREE SPECIES LIST
The “Preferred” Upper & Lower Canopy Trees, as follows:
Pinus radita – “Monterey Pine”
An attractive pine that creates the forested character of our village. A fast growing native species, which naturally occurs along the coast of central California, and can rapidly attain 70-100 feet. It is best suited to coastal landscapes where it becomes drought tolerant. Monterey pine has the form of a pyramid, but at maturity develops a rounded or flatish crown. Accepts lots of water, but can get overgrown and die at early ages, therefore, watering should be limited to the first few years after planting. (Native, evergreen, upper canopy tree).
Cupressus macrocarpa – “Monterey Cypress”
Stately and conical when young. At maturity attains heights of 40 feet and more, and as wide. With supplemental water, it produces amazing growth. Planted away from the coast, it is susceptible to canker fungus. Fog and wind conditions will allow proper development and freedom from canker. (Native, evergreen, upper canopy tree).
Quercus agrifolia – “Coast Live Oak”
Evergreen tree, developing a broad round dome from 30-60 feet high, 35-80 feet wide. Fast growing when young, especially with ample water. Supplemental watering of mature trees is not recommended. Native to coast ranges from Mendocino to San Diego counties. Has greedy roots and drops almost all of its old leaves in early spring. It is a magnificent year-round cover for small gardens. (Native, evergreen, lower canopy tree).
Tree species list “where one of the preferred tree species is not appropriate. Native species are favored;” trees below from list with respect to surveyed block.
Selected excerpts, as follows:
UPPER CANOPY TREES
Sequoia sempervirens - “Coast Redwood”
Will grow to 50-60 feet in our area, tops usually die as a result of coastal wind. (Native upper canopy tree).
LOWER CANOPY TREES
Lyonothamnus floribunda asplenifolius – “Catalina Ironwood”
Moderate growth rate, 30-40 feet in height. (Native lower canopy tree).
Note: Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius is a native of the Channel Islands.
Quercus ilex – “Holly Oak”
Native to the Mediterranean region. Medium size tree grows to 30 feet with a round canopy. (Lower canopy tree)
Note: Non-native.
Liquidamber styraciflua – “Sweet Gum”
Moderate growth rate with cone shape form at maturity. Grows to 40-feet in coastal climate...(Lower canopy tree).
Note: Non-native.
Platanus acerifolia - “London Plane”
Fast growing to 40-50 feet. (Lower canopy tree).
Note: Non-native.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Municipal Code
Chapter 12.28
TREES AND SHRUBS*
12.28.010 Purpose and Intention.
The City Council finds that it is necessary to maintain the existing urban forest in order to preserve windbreak protection, abate soil erosion, and enhance the natural beauty of the City, and adopts this chapter in the interest of public health and safety. (Ord. 79-5 § 1, 1979; Ord. 214 C.S. § 1, 1970; Code 1975 § 1230).
12.28.230 Planting Trees.
All trees planted in the public street or sidewalk area and all tree planting spaces required by this code shall be located and planted under the supervision of the Director of Forest, Parks and Beach, who shall supervise such planting and locating. In the performance of such work, consideration shall be given to the following factors; provided, that setbacks permit and considerations of safety do not interfere. These factors are determined to be of primary importance in maintaining the City forest:
D. Species selected may vary, depending on location, however, the preference of native species is urged; the Monterey pine is to be perpetuated as the dominant forest tree within the City.
Chapter 17.34
LANDSCAPING
17.34.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to protect and enhance Carmel-by-the-Sea’s dominant Monterey Pine urbanized forest and landscaped amenities.
Chapter 17.48
TREES AND SHRUBS1
17.48.010 Purpose.
The City Council finds that in order to preserve windbreaks, reduce soil erosion, and preserve the natural beauty of the City’s urbanized forest, it is necessary to maintain the extent and health of the dominant Monterey Pine forest, along with other native tree species and adopts this chapter in the interest of public health and safety. (Ord. 2004-02 § 1, 2004; Ord. 2004-01 § 1, 2004).
17.48.080 Tree Removal and Replacement.
3. Tree Species. Replacement trees shall be the same species as the removed tree or another species listed on the Tree Species List and as approved by the City Forester except that particular emphasis shall be placed on maintaining a significant population of native Monterey Pine, coast live oaks and Monterey Cypress on a City-wide basis. Replacement Monterey Pine trees shall be of local genetic stock.
Showing posts with label Commercial District "FINDINGS" Tree Study. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Commercial District "FINDINGS" Tree Study. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
PART VI: Consulting Arborist’s “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” Current Observations & Comments/Conclusions
Overview Summary of the Coast Live Oak, Monterey Pine and Monterey Cypress
• Coast Live Oak
The specimens used as street trees are in planter space openings which are entirely too small for the trees requirement of oxygen and water.
Most specimens have been badly danaged, apparently every year, by oak leaf caterpillar.
In addition fruit tree leaf roller caterpillars have consumed new foliage each spring.
Adding to this loss of leaf surface, many trees have been severely overthinned, which further reduces the tree’s ability to feed itself.
In summary, the combination of consumption of foliage by caterpillars and the restrictions placed on the trees by human activity has caused the publicly owned coast live oaks in Carmel to be in poor to very poor condition with little hope of recovery unless procedures are changed.
• Monterey Pine
Most specimens are mature (80-110 years old) and are moderately to severely infected by pine pitch canker disease.
They will continue to die, one at a time over the next 10 years until the dominant tall tree canopy of Carmel is gone.
• Monterey Cypress
Most of the specimens seen as street trees are relatively young to middle aged, and if not over pruned should offer many more years of useful life.
Whether they are appropriate in 3-foot squares in city sidewalks is a separate subject of discussion.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS from “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” as follows:
We noted another Monterey cypress street tree which is a very healthy tree of about 30 feet in height which has been pruned up above the pedestrian areas and is high enough over the street to avoid being damaged by street repair equipment.
This is at the Hanson Art Store.
At the Garcia Gallery is a large Monterey pine with a very thin canopy.
There is a large coast live oak around which an innovative space has been left for root zone.
I suggest that that solution to the question of space for tree roots be considered for more frequent use.
Adjacent and near the corner of Dolores and Ocean Avenue is a coast live oak which is actively dangerous.
This tree is heavily infected with Artist’s conk (Ganoderma applanatum). That white rot disease consumes the tissue in the center of the tree and always results in the tree eventually falling over.
I strongly recommend that this tree be removed as soon as possible.
Notice the contrast in the typical Carmel tree canopy at the corner of 7th and Lincoln as compared with the opposite corner where no large trees are seen. Which of these views is what the citizens and visitors prefer?
On Lincoln Street across from the foundation is a big cone spruce (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa). You might want to consider use of that in other places in town.
At 9th near Dolores is an example of really severe lion’s-tail pruning on coast live oaks.
This is destructive pruning and reduces the value of the tree and increases the likelihood over the long term of limb failure.
Respectfully submitted,
Barrie D. Coate
Encl.: Assumptions and Limiting Conditions
Site Pictures
• Coast Live Oak
The specimens used as street trees are in planter space openings which are entirely too small for the trees requirement of oxygen and water.
Most specimens have been badly danaged, apparently every year, by oak leaf caterpillar.
In addition fruit tree leaf roller caterpillars have consumed new foliage each spring.
Adding to this loss of leaf surface, many trees have been severely overthinned, which further reduces the tree’s ability to feed itself.
In summary, the combination of consumption of foliage by caterpillars and the restrictions placed on the trees by human activity has caused the publicly owned coast live oaks in Carmel to be in poor to very poor condition with little hope of recovery unless procedures are changed.
• Monterey Pine
Most specimens are mature (80-110 years old) and are moderately to severely infected by pine pitch canker disease.
They will continue to die, one at a time over the next 10 years until the dominant tall tree canopy of Carmel is gone.
• Monterey Cypress
Most of the specimens seen as street trees are relatively young to middle aged, and if not over pruned should offer many more years of useful life.
Whether they are appropriate in 3-foot squares in city sidewalks is a separate subject of discussion.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS from “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” as follows:
We noted another Monterey cypress street tree which is a very healthy tree of about 30 feet in height which has been pruned up above the pedestrian areas and is high enough over the street to avoid being damaged by street repair equipment.
This is at the Hanson Art Store.
At the Garcia Gallery is a large Monterey pine with a very thin canopy.
There is a large coast live oak around which an innovative space has been left for root zone.
I suggest that that solution to the question of space for tree roots be considered for more frequent use.
Adjacent and near the corner of Dolores and Ocean Avenue is a coast live oak which is actively dangerous.
This tree is heavily infected with Artist’s conk (Ganoderma applanatum). That white rot disease consumes the tissue in the center of the tree and always results in the tree eventually falling over.
I strongly recommend that this tree be removed as soon as possible.
Notice the contrast in the typical Carmel tree canopy at the corner of 7th and Lincoln as compared with the opposite corner where no large trees are seen. Which of these views is what the citizens and visitors prefer?
On Lincoln Street across from the foundation is a big cone spruce (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa). You might want to consider use of that in other places in town.
At 9th near Dolores is an example of really severe lion’s-tail pruning on coast live oaks.
This is destructive pruning and reduces the value of the tree and increases the likelihood over the long term of limb failure.
Respectfully submitted,
Barrie D. Coate
Encl.: Assumptions and Limiting Conditions
Site Pictures
Monday, June 04, 2007
PART V: Consulting Arborist’s “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” Current Observations & Comments/Conclusions
TREE # 28: London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia)
London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia).
7th Av. & San Carlos St., S.W. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 64” x 66”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This London plane tree appears to be healthy.
TREE # 29: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This small, young Sweetgum appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 30: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 54” x 59”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 22 is another pitiful coast live oak, in this case a specimen which is also infected with witch’s broom, a fungal disease which severely debilities the tree.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Coast Live Oak has normal foliage, the shape of the tree is abnormal on the street side due to pruning or damage.
TREE # 31: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 55” x 130”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 23 is one of the largest American sweetgums in town and is a fine specimen which is currently doing relatively little amount of damage although this may be relatively new pavement.
Current Observations (May 2007): This large American Sweetgum appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 32: Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergiana): Died and Removed
Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergiana) died and removed; vacant planter space opening
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 74” x 165”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 24 is a pitiful weak specimen of Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergiana). Unfortunately the plan is very heavily infested with pine adelgid, a sucking insect.
This tree is very weak and would need both pest control and fertilizer to become a useable tree. Even at that Japanese black pine is a small tree that would never be large enough to be a suitable street tree.
This is an example of inappropriate selection of species and the time spent in waiting for this to become a useful street tree is time wasted which could have been spent in a better selection.
Current Observations (May 2007): The Japanese Black Pine tree died and was subsequently removed; a vacant planter space opening remains.
TREE # 33: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 73” x 93”
View of Root Girdling
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young, recently planted Sweetgum has root girdling characteristics. As such, the presence of root girdling will adversely affect the health and longevity of this tree.
TREE # 34: Island Oak (Quercus tomentella)
Island Oak (Quercus tomentella).
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 73” x 118”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 25 appears to be an island oak (Quercus tomentella). This is a fine specimen but has been badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar last year and by lack of educated pruning.
This is a case of desperately needing appropriate structural pruning to remove the largest diameter of the lowest branches, and leaving the other branches but tipping them to encourage maximum leaf surface.
If this tree doesn’t receive some training and pest control it will become a very awkward poorly formed specimen.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Island Oak, an unusual specimen for Carmel-by-the-Sea, has abundant foliage; however, as noted above, it “desperately” needs structural pruning to prevent it from becoming a “poorly formed specimen.”
TREE # 35: Monterey Pine (Pinus Radiata)
Monterey Pine (Pinus Radiata)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Dimensions: Large Bed of Soil
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Across the walkway is Tree # 26 a Monterey pine that is heavily infested with sequoia pitch moth.
This insect should not be confused with a bark bettle because it is not, and even though it looks ugly it is not severely destructive to the tree.
This tree’s biggest problem is simply pine pitch canker disease.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Monterey Pine tree appears to be in poor condition and health as evidenced by dead and dying branch areas and evidence of pine pitch canker disease.
TREE # 36: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Dimensions: Large Bed of Soil
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Redwood appears healthy.
TREE # 37: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 61” x 93”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears healthy as evidenced by plentiful new growth. This tree replaced Monterey Pine (9’5”) “Straight Arrow,” one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Heritage Trees.
TREE # 38: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 62” x 81”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 27 is another holly oak in very poor condition primarily due to oak leaf caterpillar damage last year.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak has a foliage canopy, albeit not normal.
TREE # 39: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 51” x 83”
"PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 40: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 61” x 102”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 28 is another very old large coast live oak which has a better proportion of normal foliage than the others but still is abnormal.
This tree is only producing 1 inch per year of annual shoot growth which is much less than normal.
A limb suspended over the street has been badly damaged by multiple strikes by trucks.
This tree badly needs to have the one limb over the street removed and needs protection from the oak leaf caterpillar.
Current Observations (May 2007):This Coast Live Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
SUMMARY: Along the east side of San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av., there are a total of twelve trees: 3 Coast Live Oak trees, 3 Sweetgum trees, 2 Coast Redwoods, 1 Holly Oak, 1 Island Oak, 1 London plane tree and 1 Monterey Pine tree. Note: The Japanese Black Pine tree has since died; there is a vacant planting space opening for a tree.
London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia).
7th Av. & San Carlos St., S.W. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 64” x 66”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This London plane tree appears to be healthy.
TREE # 29: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This small, young Sweetgum appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 30: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 54” x 59”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 22 is another pitiful coast live oak, in this case a specimen which is also infected with witch’s broom, a fungal disease which severely debilities the tree.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Coast Live Oak has normal foliage, the shape of the tree is abnormal on the street side due to pruning or damage.
TREE # 31: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 55” x 130”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 23 is one of the largest American sweetgums in town and is a fine specimen which is currently doing relatively little amount of damage although this may be relatively new pavement.
Current Observations (May 2007): This large American Sweetgum appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 32: Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergiana): Died and Removed
Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergiana) died and removed; vacant planter space opening
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 74” x 165”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 24 is a pitiful weak specimen of Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergiana). Unfortunately the plan is very heavily infested with pine adelgid, a sucking insect.
This tree is very weak and would need both pest control and fertilizer to become a useable tree. Even at that Japanese black pine is a small tree that would never be large enough to be a suitable street tree.
This is an example of inappropriate selection of species and the time spent in waiting for this to become a useful street tree is time wasted which could have been spent in a better selection.
Current Observations (May 2007): The Japanese Black Pine tree died and was subsequently removed; a vacant planter space opening remains.
TREE # 33: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 73” x 93”
View of Root Girdling
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young, recently planted Sweetgum has root girdling characteristics. As such, the presence of root girdling will adversely affect the health and longevity of this tree.
TREE # 34: Island Oak (Quercus tomentella)
Island Oak (Quercus tomentella).
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 73” x 118”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 25 appears to be an island oak (Quercus tomentella). This is a fine specimen but has been badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar last year and by lack of educated pruning.
This is a case of desperately needing appropriate structural pruning to remove the largest diameter of the lowest branches, and leaving the other branches but tipping them to encourage maximum leaf surface.
If this tree doesn’t receive some training and pest control it will become a very awkward poorly formed specimen.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Island Oak, an unusual specimen for Carmel-by-the-Sea, has abundant foliage; however, as noted above, it “desperately” needs structural pruning to prevent it from becoming a “poorly formed specimen.”
TREE # 35: Monterey Pine (Pinus Radiata)
Monterey Pine (Pinus Radiata)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Dimensions: Large Bed of Soil
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Across the walkway is Tree # 26 a Monterey pine that is heavily infested with sequoia pitch moth.
This insect should not be confused with a bark bettle because it is not, and even though it looks ugly it is not severely destructive to the tree.
This tree’s biggest problem is simply pine pitch canker disease.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Monterey Pine tree appears to be in poor condition and health as evidenced by dead and dying branch areas and evidence of pine pitch canker disease.
TREE # 36: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Dimensions: Large Bed of Soil
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Redwood appears healthy.
TREE # 37: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 61” x 93”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears healthy as evidenced by plentiful new growth. This tree replaced Monterey Pine (9’5”) “Straight Arrow,” one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Heritage Trees.
TREE # 38: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 62” x 81”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 27 is another holly oak in very poor condition primarily due to oak leaf caterpillar damage last year.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak has a foliage canopy, albeit not normal.
TREE # 39: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 51” x 83”
"PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
TREE # 40: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 61” x 102”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 28 is another very old large coast live oak which has a better proportion of normal foliage than the others but still is abnormal.
This tree is only producing 1 inch per year of annual shoot growth which is much less than normal.
A limb suspended over the street has been badly damaged by multiple strikes by trucks.
This tree badly needs to have the one limb over the street removed and needs protection from the oak leaf caterpillar.
Current Observations (May 2007):This Coast Live Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy.
SUMMARY: Along the east side of San Carlos St. between 7th Av. & Ocean Av., there are a total of twelve trees: 3 Coast Live Oak trees, 3 Sweetgum trees, 2 Coast Redwoods, 1 Holly Oak, 1 Island Oak, 1 London plane tree and 1 Monterey Pine tree. Note: The Japanese Black Pine tree has since died; there is a vacant planting space opening for a tree.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
PART IV: Consulting Arborist’s “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” Current Observations & Comments/Conclusions
TREE # 20: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
Mission St. & 7th Av., S.E. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 32” x 40” Irregular
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 14 is a coast redwood which is currently in very poor condition having a large proportion of its foliage brown and dying.
A close look at the foliage shows that the only foliage that is normal is the current season’s foliage.
That is probably due to at least 20 gallons of water per 1 inch of truck diameter on a monthly basis to remain healthy and I see no way that his tree could receive this much water in this sloped very small site with electric boxes occupying a good part of its root zone.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Redwood appears to be in poor condition and health as evidenced by its’ brown and dying foliage. Its’ present condition is to be expected due to the poor selection choice of a Coast Redwood so close to another large tree at maturity, the Sweetgum to the north.
TREE # 21: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Soil
Dimensions: 62” x 82”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 15 is a pitiful little coast live oak that has not only been damaged by oak leaf caterpillar but by shearing by some over zealous gardener.
The problem this tree has are self-evident.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Coast Live Oak has abundant foliage, as noted above, it has been sheared and shaped into an unnatural appearance.
TREE # 22: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 40” x 84”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 16 is another of the very large blackwood acacias, which in this case has large strips of deadwood down the main trunk on three sides.
Current Observations (May 2007): As noted above, this Blackwood Acacia tree has “strips of deadwood down the main trunk” and as such will probably have a less than normal life span.
TREE # 23: Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 34” x 54”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 17 is another of the very large blackwood acacias which has several dead areas in the truck.
Although the canopy is healthy the trunk is so thoroughly decayed that you can expect this tree to fall over one day in the foreseeable future.
It should be removed..
Current Observations (May 2007): It appears that the Blackwood Acacia tree was removed as there is now a Catalina Ironwood in its’ planter space opening. This young Catalina Ironwood tree appears healthy as evidenced by it’s plentiful foliage.
TREE # 24: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 54”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 18 is a blackwood acacia which is mature but which has included bark between the main joints at about 12 feet above grade.
The root buttress of this tree is already breaking the adjacent pavement as would be expected with this species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This mature Blackwood Acacia tree appears to be healthy, although not desirable as a commercial sidewalk tree due to the effects of its’ present size.
TREE # 25: London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia)
London plane tree (Platanus acerifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 46”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 19 is a London plane tree another example of a good specimen which might represent added useful examples for use elsewhere in Carmel.
Current Observations (May 2007): This London Plane tree appears to be healthy.
TREE # 26: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 44” x 58”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 20 is another coast live oak in pitiful condition.
Its poor health is primarily due to poor vigor combined with extensive oak tree caterpillar’s damage.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak is indeed in “pitiful condition;” its’ foliage has not recovered from previous damage.
TREE # 27: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 46 x 58”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 21 is another coast live oak which has been badly damaged by oak tree caterpillars but which has retained a much larger proportion of normal foliage.
Note that once again this tree is in a 3-foot square.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak tree appears in good condition as evidenced by the presence of normal foliage.
SUMMARY: Along the north side of 7th Av. between Mission St. & San Carlos St., there are a total of eight trees: 3 Coast Live Oak trees, 2 Blackwood Acacia trees, 1 Catalina Ironwood tree, 1 Coast Redwood tree and 1 London plane tree.
Coast Redwood
Mission St. & 7th Av., S.E. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 32” x 40” Irregular
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 14 is a coast redwood which is currently in very poor condition having a large proportion of its foliage brown and dying.
A close look at the foliage shows that the only foliage that is normal is the current season’s foliage.
That is probably due to at least 20 gallons of water per 1 inch of truck diameter on a monthly basis to remain healthy and I see no way that his tree could receive this much water in this sloped very small site with electric boxes occupying a good part of its root zone.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Redwood appears to be in poor condition and health as evidenced by its’ brown and dying foliage. Its’ present condition is to be expected due to the poor selection choice of a Coast Redwood so close to another large tree at maturity, the Sweetgum to the north.
TREE # 21: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Soil
Dimensions: 62” x 82”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 15 is a pitiful little coast live oak that has not only been damaged by oak leaf caterpillar but by shearing by some over zealous gardener.
The problem this tree has are self-evident.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Coast Live Oak has abundant foliage, as noted above, it has been sheared and shaped into an unnatural appearance.
TREE # 22: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 40” x 84”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 16 is another of the very large blackwood acacias, which in this case has large strips of deadwood down the main trunk on three sides.
Current Observations (May 2007): As noted above, this Blackwood Acacia tree has “strips of deadwood down the main trunk” and as such will probably have a less than normal life span.
TREE # 23: Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 34” x 54”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 17 is another of the very large blackwood acacias which has several dead areas in the truck.
Although the canopy is healthy the trunk is so thoroughly decayed that you can expect this tree to fall over one day in the foreseeable future.
It should be removed..
Current Observations (May 2007): It appears that the Blackwood Acacia tree was removed as there is now a Catalina Ironwood in its’ planter space opening. This young Catalina Ironwood tree appears healthy as evidenced by it’s plentiful foliage.
TREE # 24: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 54”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 18 is a blackwood acacia which is mature but which has included bark between the main joints at about 12 feet above grade.
The root buttress of this tree is already breaking the adjacent pavement as would be expected with this species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This mature Blackwood Acacia tree appears to be healthy, although not desirable as a commercial sidewalk tree due to the effects of its’ present size.
TREE # 25: London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia)
London plane tree (Platanus acerifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 46”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 19 is a London plane tree another example of a good specimen which might represent added useful examples for use elsewhere in Carmel.
Current Observations (May 2007): This London Plane tree appears to be healthy.
TREE # 26: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 44” x 58”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 20 is another coast live oak in pitiful condition.
Its poor health is primarily due to poor vigor combined with extensive oak tree caterpillar’s damage.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak is indeed in “pitiful condition;” its’ foliage has not recovered from previous damage.
TREE # 27: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
7th Av., between Mission St. & San Carlos St.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 46 x 58”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 21 is another coast live oak which has been badly damaged by oak tree caterpillars but which has retained a much larger proportion of normal foliage.
Note that once again this tree is in a 3-foot square.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Coast Live Oak tree appears in good condition as evidenced by the presence of normal foliage.
SUMMARY: Along the north side of 7th Av. between Mission St. & San Carlos St., there are a total of eight trees: 3 Coast Live Oak trees, 2 Blackwood Acacia trees, 1 Catalina Ironwood tree, 1 Coast Redwood tree and 1 London plane tree.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
PART III: Consulting Arborist’s “PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES,” Current Observations & Comments/Conclusions
TREE # 6: Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
Ocean Av. & Mission St., N.E. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 37” x 59”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 6 is a newly installed Catalina ironwood (Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius).
This is a fine specimen of 9 feet tall but the rootball in which it was planted is still exposed and is bone dry.
Note the soil surrounding the rootball is composed of entirely organic material. There is no dirt or soil of any kind in the fill soil.
The saucer is much larger than the rootball and as a result the water goes into the material surrounding the rootball and does not wet the rootball.
Further the nursery stake has been left in the tree and that should not be allowed. Anytime a tree is planted the nursery stake should be removed to allow the new adjacent stakes to do the job of supporting the tree.
I would consider this a totally inadequate installation job.
If this condition is not improved you can expect this tree to decline as spring weather arrives and more demand for moisture occurs.
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Catalina Ironwood appears healthy; however, as noted above, the rootball appears to be dry and the nursery stake is still present.
TREE # 7: Coast Redwood ‘Aptos Blue’
Coast Redwood ‘Aptos Blue’
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 30” x 60”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 7 is a fine ‘Aptos Blue’ redwood that is performing very well.
This may be an example of a broad based tree which should have side branch pruning to get it out of the corridor of pedestrians
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears healthy.
TREE # 8: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil
Dimensions: 30” x 60”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 8 is a young sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) which is in a 3’ x 5’ space.
As this tree matures it may destroy the paving in this area and the time invested in developing a mature tree will have been lost if the tree at that stage is removed.
Sweetgums are also notorious for dropping seedpods which are a trip hazard and have been the source of lawsuits in several cities.
I suggest that since most cities are no longer using sweetgums as street trees that the city of Carmel consider that decision as well.
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 9: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 38”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 9 is a holly oak (Quercus ilex), a very sturdy tree but in this case has been badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillars.
Note that Peter found both pupal cases and a dead adult moth.
This tree has suffered auto damage on the trunk but in this case that will not cause the tree to be hazardous.
If this tree is to be maintained in good condition it will be absolutely necessary to control the oak leaf caterpillar population.
The only problem caused by this species of oak is that it has the most aggressive root system of the evergreen oaks and ultimately will cause very serious damage to the pavement here.
Note that it has been planted between two water meters in a 3-foot square. That is inadequate for this species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy. However, as noted above, the installation choice between 2 water meters and in an inadequate planter space opening bodes poorly for this tree. And therefore a shorter-than-normal life span would be anticipated.
TREE # 10: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 11: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 12: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 30” x 44”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not included.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy.
TREE # 13: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 34” x 38”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy.
TREE # 14: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 32” x 36”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 10 is a small but old holly oak in very poor condition.
Note the very heavy sooty mold deposit on the branches.
Sooty mold only occurs when you have heavy infestations of sucking insects such as aphid, scale or whitefly.
The oak leaf caterpillar damage is very severe.
The next specimen is an even worse example in very poor health.
Current Observations (May 2007): As noted above, this small Holly Oak has visibly heavy sooty deposits on its’ branches and appears to be in poor health.
TREE # 15: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 47” x 86”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 11 is a very old blackwood acacia (Acicia melanoxylon). Unfortunately blackwood acacias are very destructive of pavement and are very fast growing and always healthy but usually composed of branches which are brittle and have a strong potential for limb breakage as they mature.
This tree also has a serious codominant leader with an included bark joint at about 12 feet above grade which will make the potential for it splitting apart fairly significant.
Next is one of the better holly oaks we have seen and for reasons I can’t explain has not been as badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar.
This tree has developed a buttress at the base and will gradually damage the adjacent pavement as it continues to expand but this is a much better specimen than most of the holly oaks.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Blackwood Acacia appears to be vigorous and healthy.
TREE # 16: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 46” x 71”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Next is one of the better holly oaks we have seen and for reasons I can’t explain has not been as badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar.
This tree has developed a buttress at the base and will gradually damage the adjacent pavement as it continues to expand but this is a much better specimen than most of the holly oaks.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundance foliage canopy.
TREE # 17: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 40”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears to be healthy.
TREE # 18: London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia)
London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia).
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 49”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 12 is a mature London plane tree (Platanus acerifolia).
Unfortunately this tree has been damaged by sycamore anthracnose in spring each year for many years as well as sycamore mildew each year.
The current foliage is damaged by sycamore mildew.
If the City needs large deciduous trees this is probably one of the better bets since it is much less destructive of the pavement than the other species. The disease resistant cultivar ‘Columbia’ should be used. It is relatively carefree and should be considered one of the better potential street tree species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This London Plane tree appears to have less foliage than expected at this time of year.
TREE # 19: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 31” x 53”
Close-Up View of Root Girdling
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
The adjacent tree # 13 is probably one of the best sweetgums (Liquidambar styraciflua) in the city.
Its only problem is that the next tree, a large coast redwood was planted a mere 12 feet from it. Since each of these would reach a canopy spread of at least 30 to 40 feet this is much closer than it should be to the redwood.
The sweetgum also has a defect that will become increasingly important as the tree ages that is a large girdling root that will gradually affect the health of the tree.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Sweetgum appears healthy due to its’ abundant foliage, the presence of root girdling will, as noted above, adversely affect the health and longevity of this tree.
SUMMARY: Along the west side of Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av., there are a total of fourteen trees; 5 Holly Oaks, 4 Sweetgums, 2 Coast Redwoods, 1 Blackwood Acacia, 1 Catalina Ironwood and 1 London Plane Tree.
Catalina Ironwood ((Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius)
Ocean Av. & Mission St., N.E. Corner of Block
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 37” x 59”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 6 is a newly installed Catalina ironwood (Lyonothamnus floribundus asplenifolius).
This is a fine specimen of 9 feet tall but the rootball in which it was planted is still exposed and is bone dry.
Note the soil surrounding the rootball is composed of entirely organic material. There is no dirt or soil of any kind in the fill soil.
The saucer is much larger than the rootball and as a result the water goes into the material surrounding the rootball and does not wet the rootball.
Further the nursery stake has been left in the tree and that should not be allowed. Anytime a tree is planted the nursery stake should be removed to allow the new adjacent stakes to do the job of supporting the tree.
I would consider this a totally inadequate installation job.
If this condition is not improved you can expect this tree to decline as spring weather arrives and more demand for moisture occurs.
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Catalina Ironwood appears healthy; however, as noted above, the rootball appears to be dry and the nursery stake is still present.
TREE # 7: Coast Redwood ‘Aptos Blue’
Coast Redwood ‘Aptos Blue’
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 30” x 60”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 7 is a fine ‘Aptos Blue’ redwood that is performing very well.
This may be an example of a broad based tree which should have side branch pruning to get it out of the corridor of pedestrians
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears healthy.
TREE # 8: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil
Dimensions: 30” x 60”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 8 is a young sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) which is in a 3’ x 5’ space.
As this tree matures it may destroy the paving in this area and the time invested in developing a mature tree will have been lost if the tree at that stage is removed.
Sweetgums are also notorious for dropping seedpods which are a trip hazard and have been the source of lawsuits in several cities.
I suggest that since most cities are no longer using sweetgums as street trees that the city of Carmel consider that decision as well.
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 9: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 38”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 9 is a holly oak (Quercus ilex), a very sturdy tree but in this case has been badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillars.
Note that Peter found both pupal cases and a dead adult moth.
This tree has suffered auto damage on the trunk but in this case that will not cause the tree to be hazardous.
If this tree is to be maintained in good condition it will be absolutely necessary to control the oak leaf caterpillar population.
The only problem caused by this species of oak is that it has the most aggressive root system of the evergreen oaks and ultimately will cause very serious damage to the pavement here.
Note that it has been planted between two water meters in a 3-foot square. That is inadequate for this species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears healthy as evidenced by its’ abundant foliage canopy. However, as noted above, the installation choice between 2 water meters and in an inadequate planter space opening bodes poorly for this tree. And therefore a shorter-than-normal life span would be anticipated.
TREE # 10: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 11: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 48”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Sweetgum appears to be healthy.
TREE # 12: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 30” x 44”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not included.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy.
TREE # 13: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 34” x 38”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy.
TREE # 14: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite & Soil
Dimensions: 32” x 36”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 10 is a small but old holly oak in very poor condition.
Note the very heavy sooty mold deposit on the branches.
Sooty mold only occurs when you have heavy infestations of sucking insects such as aphid, scale or whitefly.
The oak leaf caterpillar damage is very severe.
The next specimen is an even worse example in very poor health.
Current Observations (May 2007): As noted above, this small Holly Oak has visibly heavy sooty deposits on its’ branches and appears to be in poor health.
TREE # 15: Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Blackwood Acacia (Acicia melanoxylon)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 47” x 86”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 11 is a very old blackwood acacia (Acicia melanoxylon). Unfortunately blackwood acacias are very destructive of pavement and are very fast growing and always healthy but usually composed of branches which are brittle and have a strong potential for limb breakage as they mature.
This tree also has a serious codominant leader with an included bark joint at about 12 feet above grade which will make the potential for it splitting apart fairly significant.
Next is one of the better holly oaks we have seen and for reasons I can’t explain has not been as badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar.
This tree has developed a buttress at the base and will gradually damage the adjacent pavement as it continues to expand but this is a much better specimen than most of the holly oaks.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Blackwood Acacia appears to be vigorous and healthy.
TREE # 16: Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 46” x 71”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Next is one of the better holly oaks we have seen and for reasons I can’t explain has not been as badly damaged by oak leaf caterpillar.
This tree has developed a buttress at the base and will gradually damage the adjacent pavement as it continues to expand but this is a much better specimen than most of the holly oaks.
Current Observations (May 2007): This Holly Oak appears to be healthy as evidenced by its’ abundance foliage canopy.
TREE # 17: Coast Redwood
Coast Redwood
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 36” x 40”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007): Not Included
Current Observations (May 2007): This young Coast Redwood appears to be healthy.
TREE # 18: London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia)
London Plane Tree (Platanus acerifolia).
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 38” x 49”
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
Tree # 12 is a mature London plane tree (Platanus acerifolia).
Unfortunately this tree has been damaged by sycamore anthracnose in spring each year for many years as well as sycamore mildew each year.
The current foliage is damaged by sycamore mildew.
If the City needs large deciduous trees this is probably one of the better bets since it is much less destructive of the pavement than the other species. The disease resistant cultivar ‘Columbia’ should be used. It is relatively carefree and should be considered one of the better potential street tree species.
Current Observations (May 2007): This London Plane tree appears to have less foliage than expected at this time of year.
TREE # 19: Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av.
Planter Space Opening
Soil & Compacted Decomposed Granite
Dimensions: 31” x 53”
Close-Up View of Root Girdling
“PREMINARY FINDINGS DURING A ONE BLOCK REVIEW OF CARMEL STREET TREES”
Observations (January 2007):
The adjacent tree # 13 is probably one of the best sweetgums (Liquidambar styraciflua) in the city.
Its only problem is that the next tree, a large coast redwood was planted a mere 12 feet from it. Since each of these would reach a canopy spread of at least 30 to 40 feet this is much closer than it should be to the redwood.
The sweetgum also has a defect that will become increasingly important as the tree ages that is a large girdling root that will gradually affect the health of the tree.
Current Observations (May 2007): While this Sweetgum appears healthy due to its’ abundant foliage, the presence of root girdling will, as noted above, adversely affect the health and longevity of this tree.
SUMMARY: Along the west side of Mission St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av., there are a total of fourteen trees; 5 Holly Oaks, 4 Sweetgums, 2 Coast Redwoods, 1 Blackwood Acacia, 1 Catalina Ironwood and 1 London Plane Tree.
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