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Native Plant Synoptic Garden
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First, efforts should be made to “prevent all branches from growing larger than half the trunk
diameter” (Gilman, 2004). Second, no matter what type of pruning is being performed, “maintain
a live crown ratio of greater than sixty percent” (Gilman, 2004). Efforts should be made early on
to establish proper crown structure for the species, thus eliminating the need to prune large
branches later on. Prunin g large branches (greater than one inch) increases the risk for diseases to
enter the plant tissue (Chalker-Scott, 2004). Finally, when pruning, cuts should be made based on
the figures provided. These figures represent three distinct morphological differences that may be
exhibited at the time a branch needs to be removed. In absolutely no circumstance should flush
cuts be made, since they substantially reduce the ability for a woody plant to effectively
compartmentalize the wound (Gilman, 2002).
Zone Specific Maintenance
Forested Ridge
Along the west side of the proposed synoptic garden is the forested ridge section. This
portion of the garden would require the general maintenance as previously mentioned, but may
also require some pruning being that there will be an abundance of tree species there. The
pruning that would need to be done would be the removal of dead, diseased, injured, broken,
crossing, interfering, and crowded limbs. A dense top may be thinned, if deemed necessary (by
the WPA Certified Arborist) to allow for the passage of light and air. Light is needed by the
interior foliage of a plant and by other plants beneath it (Harris, 2004). Pruning could also be
used to improve aesthetics, as well as structure. Depending on the number of deciduous trees that
would be present in this area, there may have to be leaf litter removal during the late summer and
early fall, but some of the leaf litter should be left to improve organic matter levels in the soil.
During the dry months, this area or portions of it may need to be watered to maintain plant quality
and reduce stress.
Alpine Zone
There are two separate portions of the alpine zone, one near the Graham Visitors Center
and one near the Maintenance buildings. There may be high maintenance needs along the road