Endless Orchards/PHS Event- Mark Saucedo

On Sunday, November 13th, I along with Pierce, Cian, and Effi attended the Endless Orchard Tree Adoption organized by the Temple Office of Sustainability at the bell tower on Temple University's campus. Although I attended the event only expecting to plant a single tree, I was also tasked with assisting in the actual event. By this I mean I performed the duties of a volunteer which included, distributing plants as well as planting multiple trees. I was surprised by the amount of green space on Temple’s main campus. I mainly worked with members of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Their kindness along with their knowledge of trees made this event quite enjoyable.

1. What course concepts did you see in action?
1. During this event, I was able to implement many of the concepts described in class. Focusing on soil, my talk with Dana helped to strengthen my knowledge of the importance of soil. Dana was very against the use of fertilizers in this instance, as she explained that since the tree was still very young it could have a negative impact on its growth. She then went on to explain the benefits of the organic mulch which was very rich in carbon and nitrogen. As Dana was explaining the location of tree planting she spoke of the importance of soil quality, as lack of nutrients and water would impact its growth. The soil lab conducted in class was very beneficial when planting the trees. The hands-on experience with the soil in class was helpful in determining the soil quality of the holes which the trees were going to be planted. The soil in the hole was dark brown, which is an indicator of nutrient-rich soil, however, it was rather dry, which was important to know for hydration purposes. 
2. What did you do? – be very specific – include plant names, soil types, names of groups and  individuals.
1. As a volunteer for this event, me along with Cian, Pierce, and Effi assisted in distributing trees and mulch to those individuals who adopted a tree. The tree options included Bartlett pear trees, black cherry trees, and apple trees along with organic mulch provided by Temple’s office of sustainability. The most interesting aspect of this event was the information I received from the members of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society who was also assisting with the Endless Orchard event. I was educated by PHS member Dana on the necessary steps to plant a tree. Dana explained that location is extremely important as you want the tree to be in an ideal sunlight location with enough room to grow. Next, Dana explained that you must only prune the dead and damaged branches by cutting above the collar of the branch. Once the base of the tree is released from the container the next step is to trim the roots. The roots can begin to grow awkwardly when confined in the container. Making sure the roots are free is crucial for the stability of the tree, thus, it is critical for the roots to be not tangled. Once the roots are exposed, the root flare must be uncovered when planted. If the root flare is covered and unexposed it will impact the growth of the tree. It is important to not make the hole for the tree not too deep because if the trunk of the tree is buried, it will not allow for the proper growth of the tree. Rather than digging deeper, Dana explained that building a wider hole is more beneficial.  After receiving the proper instructions, it was time to plant our black cherry trees. With pre-dug holes situated on 11th street behind Gladfelter Hall, all that needed to be done is correctly place the tree in the hole and appropriately cover I, making sure not to cover the root flare. Buried root flares can actually kill the trees, depriving them of proper nutrients. After the tree was placed in the hole with the roots properly cut and the depth of the hole was adjusted, the tree was planted and covered with mulch. Watering of the trees occurred the following day. In total, our group planted 3 black cherry trees. 
    
   
   
   
   
3. How does this project or agency address community needs?
1. Trees are critical for cities as they help to combat climate change as it is an easier solution. As cities such as Philadelphia are continually getting hotter and moister, trees help cool homes and reduce the urban heat island effect. Aside from climate change, trees also help to manage and capture stormwater runoff. Trees also help to improve the ecosystem as they provide food for local animals as well as adding a positive aesthetic quality to the area. 
4. How can you continue your involvement with this urban greening issue?
1. After spending a few hours working with members of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, they were extremely excited to invite my group to future tree planting events and even attend a 2 class session in PHS Tree Tenders program which offers hands-on tree care training for residents of the Philadelphia region. As Dana explained, a PHS initiative involved the “Plant 1 Million” program which aims to plant one million trees in public and private locations all over Philadelphia. I intend on reaching out to the PHS to continue to plant and care for trees.
5. What did you do at the event that made you feel that you made a difference and why?
1. At the event, my group and I planted 3 black cherry trees on 11th street directly behind Gladfelter Hall. We improved the ecosystem by introducing trees which assist in climate control, air quality, and also provides food. While we were planting the trees, a security guard expressed her excitement to pick from the tree when it was producing cherries. This adds to the aesthetic quality as more people will be inclined to pass by and enjoy a few cherries on their way to class. Although we only planted 3 trees, it was a right step in the direction of improving the city of Philadelphia by means of climate control, stormwater control, and improving the aesthetic image of not only Temple University, but Philadelphia as a whole.  
   

 Pennsylvania Horticultural Society member Dana speaks about the impact of tree planting: Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Dana