Tree Podz Original

Stabilizing a newly planted tree is vital to enable the tree to develop a proper root system that will enable it to withstand wind forces and other environmental conditions it may experience during its lifetime. Newly planted trees are traditionally stabilized by installing one or two stakes in the ground on either side of a tree, using turnbuckles or straps that extend between the stakes and a point just below the tree’s crown. When such traditional stabilizing mechanisms are used, the tree’s sway in the wind is restricted. This can be problematic, as such movement is necessary to develop anchoring roots on all sides of the tree. Without this movement, the tree may take several years to develop a proper root system, which can make it more vulnerable over a longer period.

In addition to possibly retarding root development, traditional turnbuckles and stabilizing straps, which should generally be removed 12 to 24 months after installation, are often forgotten and therefore not removed by maintenance crews at the appropriate time. As the tree grows in diameter, forgotten straps will inevitably inhibit growth and/or injure the tree, and depending on the severity, the tree may eventually die.

In addition to tree stabilization, protection of newly planted or newly regenerated trees against mechanical damage and environmental conditions is also important. Mechanical damage is often caused by maintenance contractors or tree owners aiming their lawnmowers or trimmers too close to the trunk of a tree, causing injuries that can be detrimental to young trees. In severe cases, trees may have to be replaced, resulting in unnecessary expense and loss of vegetation.

Mulch is often used at the base of trees to smother competing vegetation and greatly improve tree growth rates. In many cases, the wind blows or the rain washes away the newly applied mulch in a short space of time, so that grasses and other competing species return soon afterwards. In an effort to compensate, some companies apply additional mulch, forming what is known as “Volcano Mulching”. When this mulch completely covers the base of the tree, a moist environment is created, encouraging the proliferation of bacteria and fungi that can be harmful to newly planted trees.

To solve all these urban tree-related problems, Urbafor Solutions has invented Tree Podz (provisional patent). The original version protects caliber trees by installing a physical, biodegradable barrier at the critical root zone of the trees to protect them from human activity. What’s more, this version includes two stabilizers that can replace the stakes. Finally, these stabilizers feature a guide to show tree planters the exact level of mulch to apply at the base of the tree.