1 Jul
2021
1 Jul
'21
5:37 p.m.
Dear All,
   I forgot the mention that variation of apple tree growth and yield
were closely related to one parameter; water holding capacity at field
capacity within the rooting zone.
   One should be wary of assumed soil quality in residential areas.
Fill is sometimes whatever can be secured at least cost; e.g. coarse
gravel with a frosting of soil on top. And unmodified soil profiles
sometimes have surprises at depth.
   Dave, Kentville
-------- Forwarded Message --------
Subject: [Naturens] O. fagi
Date: Wed, 30 Jun 2021 18:59:38 -0300
From: David Webster <dwebster(a)glinx.com>
To: Naturens <naturens(a)chebucto.ns.ca>
Dear All,
   Some days ago I asked where O. fagi was present in NS. And today
noticed a reply to the effect that such information would be found at
iNaturalist. The information there was in effect; everywhere which is no
more of use than a map which consists entirely of white paper.
START OF DIGRESSION
  Very briefly; agriculture, settlements and urban areas are generally
on the better soils except for ports where location by a suitable harbor
is key. And woodland tends to be on the poor leftovers.
   But even in farmed soils, unfavorable profile features can make for
a 10 fold difference in rate of apple tree growth and yield on rows 100'
long. Or for heaving and longevity of trees.
END OF DIGRESSION
   The specific locations of even 100 sites where O. fagi has
overwhelmed Beech trees and 100 or less where it has not might offer a
clue for best management of this pest; GPS readings converted to Long. &
Lat.
 In 1972 a good soil survey map was prepared for the entire province
of NS. Surveys of entire provinces are expensive so I expect copies are
still in stock. If not I have a copy.
   For orientation purposes (is there any association between damage
by O. fagi and soil type ?) one would need only (1) a qualitative
evaluation of beetle damage by late August and (2) some evaluation of
tree vigor e.g. typical shoot extension by late August. And a brief site
description; approximate slope, exposure and vegetation. e.g. grassed
lawn, grassed field or woodland.
   These are just suggestions based my a first hand unfamiliarity with
the facts.
Those who have seen O. fagi damage will be in a better position to
improve on the above.
Dave, Kentville
_______________________________________________
Naturens mailing list -- naturens(a)chebucto.ns.ca
To unsubscribe send an email to naturens-leave(a)chebucto.ns.ca