Trees provide value and benefits to nearly all sites, and there is no place where “green” is more sought after than in city-scapes and commercial properties. Often there are myriads of empty parking spaces close to the entrance, and the several cars in the lot are hundreds of feet away . . . under the trees! This green place is elevated by its function. Large trees also affect property values. It is important for site managers to understand that large trees have requirements - there are expenses to “growing them big”.

Just as a building needs a foundation, so trees must also have a proper foundation to grow. The predictive future of every tree is dependent upon the committed foundation area. No matter how good the tree or extensive the care, if the root zone is not properly prescribed, the tree will not have a long-term future! In the matter of root zones, “Quantity is Quality!"

Nearly all city-scapes and suburban sites are constrictive to long-term tree growth. Both hard-scapes and the “turf—tree interface” are combative and anti-tree! The balance is made more difficult when utilities are demanded for modern living and de-icers are applied for safe streets. Yet, residents desire that trees grow to sizes where shade is contributory to the overall livability of a town. It is safe to say that most urban sites are “tree-negative”.

All trees have a cost: planting, nurturing, and removal. Proactive care is essential for mature specimens. Desire for the future must be coupled with scientific practice for an urban forest - trees growing in man-made spaces - to achieve its stated objectives. This balancing act marries the values of the community with its budget and cultural realities.