PORTNEUF VALLEY TREE GUIDE - City of Pocatello

3Pocatello’s tree ordinance requires that tree branches be kept 8’above sidewalks; 12’ above streets; and 14½’ above designatedtruck routes. The ordinance and Master List of Acceptable Treesexplain requirements and prohibitions related to street trees. To seethem, visit Pocatello City Hall or www.Pocatello.us/pr/documents/acceptable_trees.BE FIREWISEFirewise practices include removing dead wood and low treebranches; removing vegetation from roofs, gutters, and under decks;selecting fire-resistant plants; and keeping tree limbs 15’ away fromchimneys, buildings, and power lines. To learn more: www.firewise.orgor Three Rivers RC&D at 208-241-4656.PLANTING INSTRUCTIONSCare For Your TreesThe most common and serious planting error is planting too deep.Before planting, find the root flare—where roots spread at the base ofthe trunk. This flare should be partly visible at the top of the plantinghole.The most common planting stock found at local nurseries are incontainers, bareroot, or balled and burlapped (B&B). Plantingprocedures vary depending on the kind of stock selected. For a sturdytree, carefully follow these procedures:1. Dig hole 2 to 3 times as wide as the root-ball and the same depthas the tree was planted in the nursery. The sides of the hole should berough and uneven to help roots grow into the surrounding soil.Container Stock: Gently remove container and inspect root-ballfor circling roots. If you see only a few, gently separate and spreadthem outward. Eliminate masses of circling roots by making twoto four half-inch deep vertical cuts in the sides of root-ball. Cut ashallow “X” on the bottom of the root-ball. If soil covers the rootflare, brush it off. Place root-ball in planting hole. Make sure topof root flare is level with or slightly higher than surrounding ground.Balled & Burlapped (B&B): If soil covers the root flare, brush it off.Carefully place tree in planting hole so top of root flare is levelwith or slightly higher than surrounding ground. If you need toadjust tree’s position, shift the root-ball; do not twist tree trunk.Straighten tree and add just enough soil to stabilize it. Cut andremove all twine or wire. Remove as much burlap as possible, assome is not biodegradable.