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Mike
Misting the canopy is an effective way to temporarily off set root loss.
The functional purpose of the roots system is to provide water to the canopy. Through
controlled transpiration cell temperatures are maintained at operating levels. Ed Gillman
with the university of Florida did some extensive study in this area. He suggested that
under stressed conditions ( daylight hours) misting for 5 min. every 20 min. appeared to
sufficient to off set root losses. I never did locate a timer that would yield that configuration
in settings. I think one could however alternate the heads to yield something similar.
Regulating accumulation is necessary and desirable to prevent oxygen deprivation and
fungus problems from occurring. Leaching of the elements from the leaves also can occur
in prolonged or excessive use.
In my experience misting was extremely effective when used to off set enormous root
losses in conjunction with the transplanting of large Live Oaks (32"dbh to 48"dbh) in hot
weather. One 48"dbh Live Oak was moved with only a 6'diameter ball. The contractor had
originally hired me to move it, as he was afraid of the $50,000.00 fine if it died.
Unfortunately specifications called for it to be moved in January but delays in processes,
did not allow him to proceed until May. Subsequently he escaped responsibility and moved
it with out taking any of the precaution and protections advised. Simply plucked and
placed. But he did install a misting system. I can't help but to believe that the misting
system was the only reason it survived.
The misting system is not difficult nor expensive to set up. Your position is a little different.
I would suspect the root loss is not the only problem, in that other disturbances are likely to
be present such as compaction and shearing from the construction activities of heavy
machinery and changes in grade. It may be necessary to reestablish soil conditions
favorable to root generation.
Misting appears to so effectively reduce and eliminate water stresses. It is likely that some
weaning will be necessary to spur root generation.
George Schrader SO-0448
AMERICAN TREE
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