Scott Zanon, the author of Desirable Trees for the Midwest: 50 for
the Home Landscape and Larger Properties, has majors in agronomy (turfgrass science)
and horticulture. While chairing a committee to renovate The Ohio State University
golf courses, he realized that there was an appalling dearth of information
about the relationship between specific trees and turf. The irony is that turf
and trees have radically different management requirements.
Most of us in the industry are aware of the need to keep mature size in mind
to avoid future interference with power lines or property lines and much of
our business is a result of the fact that homeowners lack this awareness. But
Zanon adds another element of awareness. He points out that trees should not
be sited on the eastern or southeastern part of properties, whether residential
or golf course, because they will shade out morning sun that is needed by turf
in order for dew to evaporate quickly, thus lessening fungal disease. Also
conducive to good turf growth is the practice of selective tree pruning which
will increase air circulation and the amount of light as well as enhance many
views.
The major part of the book is an encyclopedic listing of 42 deciduous trees
and 8 coniferous ones. Each is beautifully illustrated in its various stages
of growth with several photographs by Steven Still, a retired OSU horticulture
professor. Also included are photos of summer and fall color, fruit, bark,
and overall habit. The descriptions of each selection include zone hardiness,
mature size, habit, growth rate, bark, leaf color, flowers, fruit, culture,
and problems as well as author's notes are useful.
Unfortunately, Zanon does not explain his rationale for selecting these trees
although I inferred that it was for their form, habit, architectural interest,
ornamental features, and a minimum of surface roots.
At the end of this section is a very interesting list of trees that were not
included and the reasons why. I would have preferred that he divide that list
into two parts, one for those that are there merely because of availability
issues, and another for those that were excluded for other reasons.
The back of the book consists of several, very useful lists of trees by characteristics,
e.g size, site, flowers, ornamental bark or fruit, fall color, winter interest,
salt tolerance, and screening. Anyone who is considering planting a tree would
benefit from reading and then having this book in his/her reference library.
Unlike most books, you can actually preview 25% of the book on Scott's
website, DesirableTrees.com.
Bobbie Schwartz
Bobbie's Green Thumb
