Trees have different needs from other types of plantings.  Trees need canopy space, sun, air circulation, and clear distance from man made structure which might include buildings as well as sidewalks, patios and pavement.

Know the purpose of the tree before planting.  Trees can block views.  This may be good for blocking an unsightly building or landscape, but may obscure a pretty view when the tree is mature.

Examine the root ball.  With the agreement or even help of someone from the nursery, take the root ball out of its container. There should be no roots visibly circling the root ball.  A tree with circled root will be stunted.

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but slightly shallower than the root ball. Older planting techniques called for digging the hole deeper than the root ball and filling below the root ball with amended soil.

Trees, even not fruiting varieties, provide food for many different kinds of animals.  Among the most annoying and obvious animals in southern California that damage trees, particularly young trees, are deer, gophers and rabbits.

Insects are probably the first thought when a tree appears damaged, especially if there are holes in the leaves.  Insects can also be carriers of diseases that kill trees.  The University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources Integrated Pest Management (IPM) web site has extensive files on diseases of trees.

If a tree looks unhealthy and there is no visible insect damage, the problem could be caused by a disease.  The University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources Integrated Pest Management (IPM) web site has extensive files on diseases of trees.

Some trees that look unhealthy may be suffering from environmental circumstances, like mineral deficiencies or excesses, weather or poor water management. Mineral deficiencies often change the appearance of the leaf, with most deficiencies having unique characteristics.

Because agriculture makes a significant economic contribution to California and, particularly, San Diego County, the state has invested heavily in research aimed at improving production and quality of agricultural products.

Some kinds of trees can grow very large.  If not managed properly, they can be dangerous.  News stories of trees toppling on houses or cars during severe weather are not uncommon.

First, the cardinal rule when looking at a tree with pruning tools in hand is Don't Top Trees!

The success of the growth of a tree depends highly on the soil in which it is planted.  The first critical element is soil drainage. To test for drainage, dig a hole 18 inches in diameter, 12 inches in depth.  Fill the hole with water and let it drain. After it has drained, fill it again and time how long the hole takes to empty.

There is no simple number that can be provided when the question is asked "How long should I water my Hong Orchid (Bauhinia Blakeana) tree", for example.  Water needs for trees vary based tree type, region, season, soil type, and proximity to other plantings among other factors.  Even the type of watering system makes a difference.

The San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects emphatically supports the continued planting, nurturing and replacement of trees in San Diego’s urban environment

Pruning trees improperly can irrevocably damage them, be hazardous to both the tree and the public, and lead to significant liability. Working in a tree with a chain saw is extremely dangerous and requires a high degree of skill.

Organizations in San Diego that educate people about rare fruits, to identify fruits that are adaptable to the local area, and to propagate and to exchange plant materials.