POWERGRAMS

18 Turn Over a New Leaf ENVIRONMENT WHY IT'S BETTER TO PLANT TREES IN THE FALL If a tree could select a favorite season, it would pick fall. Why fall? Fall offers an excellent planting time, much better than spring or other seasons. In the fall, a planted tree has time to establish its root system before winter. The tree's roots grow once they connect with moist soil and will do so if the ground temperature stays above 40 degrees. Once spring arrives, the warm temperatures promote growth of new shoots, with roots established in the soil. Let's face it, winter can be tough on foliage. No worries for trees – they go dormant in the winter, like a bear in hibernation. While the tree naps, its growth rate slows down, allowing for less nutrient consumption. When asleep, a tree requires little care. As spring arrives, the extra growing season benefits the tree before the stress of summer heat. "When trees begin to go dormant in the fall, they turn their attention away from the production and maintenance of leaf mass and can focus their energy and resources on the establishment of a healthy root system," said Josh Smalley, Alabama Power utility arborist supervisor. "This shift in priority allows fall-planted trees to get a head start," he said. "When the soil warms in the spring and new growth begins, a fall-planted tree will already have a significant root growth advantage that will, in turn, allow for better nutrient and water uptake, more vigorous leaf production and an overall healthier tree with a better chance of long-term survival." Benefits of trees • Clean the air by snagging dust, pollen and other debris. • Increase property value. • Offer shelter and food for wildlife. • Moderate the effects of sun and wind. • Strategically planted, can significantly reduce home cooling costs. • Absorb carbon dioxide from the air. Alabama Power customers play a part in ensuring dependable electric service. Before you begin planting, review the Right Tree Right Place brochure for planting recommendations near utility lines. Contact Alabama Power Customer Service at 1-800-245-2244 to receive a free copy in the mail. For more tips on planting, visit AlabamaPower.com/ Plant The Right Tree. By Dan Bynum

• Cover