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High Altitude Tree Planting #777539

Asked November 10, 2021, 11:53 AM EST

Hey there, I'm looking for the best trees to plant at 9500 ft in the South Park area, roughly 20 miles SW of Jefferson. Since we don't live up there full-time, also looking for something we can plant and forget if possible. I know that's a steep ask but just curious if something exists. Thanks for the help! Chris

Park County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Chris, 
I apologize for not getting back to you sooner! 
We do host a tree sale through the CSU nursery, Here is the page with the order form. 
http://park.extension.colostate.edu/seedling-guides-and-order-form/
The order form has markings on the trees that are good for Park County - Those ones are a range from 8,000-11,000 feet elevation so if you see one that you are interested in check this guide to see what the recommended elevation is - https://park.extension.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/51/2018/11/Trees-Buyers-Guide.pdf

For planting and forgetting... that is a bit harder. A lot of those trees above are pretty drought tolerant so that would be good however, that is once they are established. 
A few things that we recommend for people who aren't able to water as often is to utilize polymer crystals that absorb the water and hold it by the roots longer and then mulching around the trees to prevent evaporation as much as possible. How often would you say you would be able to water them? Could you set up a drip system with a large storage tank that you fill up when you are in town? Could maybe set it on a timer? Is there a neighbor who could check on them? 
Please let me know if there are additional resources that I can help with! 
Thanks,
Barbie

Barbie Garnett Replied December 09, 2021, 12:55 PM EST

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