Urban core neighborhoods set to lose many trees

[fieldafm]

I would not plant directly over any pipe or conduit.  If you can adjust a foot or so on either side you should be ok, as most root systems will grow around obstacles.  Japanese Magnolias do not get too big so I don't think the root systems would cause a problem.  I was forced several years back to run irrigation pipes "through" some large oak roots.  I've never had a problem.  But planting directly over a pipe is a no-no because the tap root goes straight down.

I bought several trees Sat myself.  What a crowd - and I got there at 7:30.  I bought bald cypress, red maple, and river birch.  My neighbor bought some live oaks and bald cypress.  None have gone in my yard as I have too many.  We went and planted them all in our neighbors' yards(with permission of course).  Some of our neighbors are new, others are elderly who have lost their trees due to age or storms.

I'm working on getting some treaty oaks donated for community improvement and will let you know if that happens.

Thanks for the advice Sigma!  I'm going to do some measuring after work and see what kind of room I have to work with.

I was suprised about the amount of people!  My dad and I got there about 6:45 and we weren't even close to the front of the line.  He wanted some indian hawthorne's and some camelia's, but he unselfishly was too busy helping my two friends and I with our stash to grab some in time.  I felt bad so I may go up to Hall's Nursery this week and buy him some anyway.

[RWNeal]

Here's a question somewhat related to the discussion: What's the best way to find a good certified arborist? I have a water oak in my front yard that has some rotten thick branches way up high. It looks bad enough that a couple of tree surgeons have left flyers at my door.

[Dog Walker]

Absolutely the best Certified Arborist in this area is a guy named Early Piety.  Funny name, but years and years of experience and he hates to cut trees down.  Specialty Tree Surgeons is the company name and he uses "Tree Preservation Consultants" as their tag line.  I've used him to save a couple of two hundred year old live oaks for me by cabling them and putting in lightening protection. 

Highly recommended!

[RWNeal]

Thanks! I'll give him a try!