Pensacola News Journal

For: Saturday, Nov. 6, 2004

By: Daniel E. Mullins

Extension Horticulture Agent

Santa Rosa County

Landscape Cleanup and Associated Questions Continue

I have just returned from a week off to return borrowed generators, run other errands and get a little rest. Upon returning, I see that the effects of Hurricane Ivan linger. Questions regarding landscape repair and cleanup continue to dominate all other subjects at work.

Here is a sampling of some of the most current gardening questions. This is meant to show the wide range of topics and hopefully address some readers’ concerns.

Q. I have had some trees cut and the stumps have been ground up. What

should I do with the wood grindings from these stumps?

1. Remove as much of this material as possible and compost it. Don’t just spread it around and expect grass to grow well in those areas. If left in place, be assured of a challenge in growing plants there for two or more years.

This high volume of freshly ground wood begins decomposing rather rapidly, but the entire process takes a long time. While the break down of the grindings is taking place, nitrogen and possibly other minerals become less available to nearby plants. This phenomenon is known as “nitrogen robbing” and results in little or no growth of grass or other ornamentals, and those that grow at all are usually stunted and yellow.

Once the wood particles are removed, apply enough fresh soil to

establish the original grade and smooth the area. Grass, flowers or shrubs can then be planted. Even when extra care is taken, many of the stump grindings often remain and become mixed with the soil. Light, frequent supplemental applications of nitrogen for a year or two help to counteract the nitrogen robbing effect until the soil stabilizes. After the material has been well composted it can be recycled by using it as a soil amendment in plant beds.

17. Now that my trees are gone, I would like to improve my lawn. Because of the shade that was present previously, the grass is sparse and there are some bare areas. What should I do now to improve my lawn?

A. First, remove all storm debris such as fallen branches and leaves. If there is danger of soil erosion, consider sodding a permanent grass or seeding annual ryegrass for protection. If erosion is not a concern, you could wait until spring for seeding, sprigging or plugging. Do not fertilize the permanent grass this late in the season.

Q. I am concerned about one of the remaining trees in my yard. It appears to have weathered the storm, but fine sawdust has collected at the base of the trunk. What does this mean?

A. This is not good news, so keep a close eye on that tree. Fine powdery sawdust at the base of a tree indicates that a species of borer that feeds upon dead wood is at work. I suspect that this tree has died, but green foliage remains due to the tree’s stored energy.

Give it a little more time to prove me wrong. Once that you are sure that it is dead, remove it promptly before it becomes weak and in danger of falling.