TCB Presenter Series – Tree Care 101

Tree Care 101

Trees are glorious work horses in a challenging desert climate. To thrive and provide the many benefits mature trees give an urban setting, they need a little human help. Renowned tree and plant scientist, educator, and tree lover, Dr. Jim Downer will teach you to be a better steward of the trees in your care.  You will learn: – best practices for pruning native desert trees throughout their lifespan; – how to determine if your trees need pruning; – how to bring life to your desert soil; – where and how to water to ensure your tree gets the water it needs over time; – simple sustainability strategies to save you water, work, and worry while nurturing your trees to enhance longevity. Over the last several decades pruning science has changed. During the presentation you will learn where cuts should be made, and at what age, to avoid harming your trees by over-pruning. Dr. Downer will explain how correct pruning ensures the sound structure of a developing desert shade tree while enhancing its form, beauty, and performance.  Learn what desert trees need from you to ensure your trees become living legacies for the future. Please join our Zoom presentation and discussion on August 25th, 2021 at 5:30 pm MST Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkf-CvqTMtH9N_fJf-ScwmpZBNJXezUTtL After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Dr. Jim Downer has 36 years of experience as a horticulture and plant pathology Advisor with the University of California Cooperative Extension in Ventura County. Dr. Downer’s research is focused on mulch, soil microbiology and disease suppression in mulched soils, diseases of shade trees and cultural practices to maintain landscape plants. Dr. Downer is a member of the American Society of Horticultural Science, the American Phytopathological Society, The International Soc. of Arboriculture, and the Western Chapter of the ISA, and the International Society for Horticultural Science. Dr. Downer is an Adjunct professor at California Polytechnic University in Pomona. Dr. Downer serves on the Board of the John Britton Fund for Tree Research as the chair of the research advisory committee, and currently chairs the regional conference committee for WCISA. Dr. Downer has a love of shade trees, Shinrin roku (forest bathing/walking) tree work, wood working, horses, gardening, horticulture and the study of plants and their biology.