Anna Newhoff
NCR Reporter
Members of the Callahan Garden Club got their hands dirty to celebrate Florida Arbor Day.
Several Nassau County community groups came together Jan. 17 to plant two trees at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds.
A 30-gallon red maple tree, donated by Gage Tree Care, and a 15-gallon tulip poplar, donated by the UF/IFAS Nassau County Extension, were planted by the Callahan Garden Club, Keep Nassau Beautiful, the Florida Forest Service, and the UF/IFAS Nassau County Extension.
Representatives from the participating groups helped with the planting and provided valuable information to Callahan Garden Club members about the benefits and timing of tree planting in Florida’s unique climate.
Florida Arbor Day takes place on the third Friday in January, earlier than National Arbor Day, which is observed on the fourth Friday in April. The state’s warmer climate allows for earlier planting, giving trees the best chance to thrive.
“By the time Arbor Day is celebrated in other parts of the country, it’s already a little too warm here in Florida,” said UF/IFAS Extension Agent 1 David Hebert.
“Planting earlier ensures the tree can establish its roots before the soil warms up.”
Hebert also shared tips on protecting newly planted trees. Unlike other plants, trees don’t require winter protection, but their roots do. A layer of mulch, 2 to 3 inches deep, can help retain soil moisture, inhibit weeds, and protect roots from temperature fluctuations. However, it’s important to leave about 2 inches of space around the tree trunk to prevent root rot. Mulch also keeps the soil cool during hot weather and warm in cooler months.
When planting a tree, the hole needs to be one-and-a-half to three times the width of the root ball, which is the root area of the tree. The hole needs to be the same depth as the root ball. It’s important to avoid hardpan, which prevents drainage and can lead to root rot.
In addition to tree care, attendees learned about torpedo grass, an invasive species native to Africa. The white root distinguishes the weed from other grass. It’s important to remove torpedo grass so it does not disturb natural plants.
If you would like more information about gardening, the Callahan Garden Club’s next meeting is at 10 a.m. Feb. 5 at the clubhouse, located at 45251 Fourth Ave.