Foster Road farm sign

Farm Journal

Thoughts and images from life at Foster Road

 

Entry: APRIL 15, 2009

 

Takedown

Arriving at 8:00, I found the arborist crew already there, setting up to get right to work. They were very focused and the only question they had for me was where to put the load of walnut mulch once it was chipped and ready to unload.

 

Walnut wood contains a chemical that inhibits germination and growth of other plants. This makes the mulch great for areas where you don't want things to grow, but be careful not to spread it where you hope to one day plant tomatoes.

 

Hurrying back over my lunch hour, I arrived just in time to watch them take down part of the topmost crown. The crew leader tied the section skillfully, and as the rest of us watched transfixed, severed the limb. It fell with mighty weight but came to rest almost gently, suspended from the remaining crown.

 

Immediately the crew sprang into action and the sawing, raking and chipping began again. One last camera click and it was back to work for me. Can't wait to see the next steps...