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Moisture Tolerant Trees #878407

Asked July 23, 2024, 11:40 AM EDT

I have a 1.5 acre parcel of land that borders on the Saint Marys River, that depending on the river water level condition, can be wet. This parcel was historically populated with Ash trees. Unfortunately, I presume due to the Ash Bore, all of the existing trees have died. I would like to plant some new trees in this area. I have two questions for you. First, can you suggest what type of tree, or trees, that would be suitable for this partially wet environment. I would like at least some of the new trees to be relatively fast growing. Second, can you suggest a source for the trees, and for someone who would come in and plant the trees. I’m not looking for “large” trees, I’m just looking for seedlings or trees of a size that have reasonable chance of growing. Any assistance you could provide would be appreciated.

Chippewa County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello

Chippewa County is USDA Plant Hardiness zone 4b to 5a. So first, choose trees hardy to those zones or colder( ie 4a or 3b).

It would also be good to do a soil test for the location, so you know your soil type and pH. Some trees are sensitive to pH and soil type.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/21432/Soil_Test.pdf

Here is a list of wet soil tolerant trees and their Hardiness zones. Choose at least two or three different species so if a pest or disease  wipes out one type, you are likely to have the others unaffected.

https://extension.psu.edu/trees-shrubs-and-groundcovers-tolerant-of-wet-sites

There are lists of trees starting on the following, PDF page 112, for soil moisture levels.

http://www.hort.cornell.edu/uhi/outreach/recurbtree/pdfs/~recurbtrees.pdf


Planting the tree correctly, with the root collar exposed just above the soil line, is critical ot tree health and longevity. See the planting instructions and ongoing care here-

https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368392.pdf


MSU Extension does not endorse retailers or brands, and so doesn’t keep lists of suppliers.

You can check the following for small trees-

Arbor Day Foundation- https://www.arborday.org/trees/

Your local nurseries may be willing to order trees for you in spring. Contact them now so you will know when to place an order.

Your local Conservancy group may have tree sales, usually in spring-

https://superiorconservancy.org

For services, including planting, search for professionals in your area. Here is one online resource- https://mnla.org

Spring is the best for planting in Michigan so that the plants have the maximum time to establish before winter.

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