removal of the entire root system.
3.3.3
Plant Pits
Plant pits shall be dug to a depth equal to the height of the root ball as
measured from the base of the ball to the base of the plant trunk. Plant
pits shall be dug a minimum of 2 times the diameter of the root system to
allow for root expansion. The pit shall be constructed with sides sloping
towards the base as a cone, to encourage well-aerated soil to be available
to the root system for favorable root growth. Cylindrical pits with
vertical sides shall not be used. Pits shall be dug immediately before
plants are placed in the pit.
3.4
INSTALLATION
3.4.1
Setting Plant Material
Plant material shall be set plumb and held in position until sufficient top
soil has been firmly placed around root system or ball. In relation to the
surrounding grade, the plant material shall be set even with the grade at
which it was grown. The root system shall be spread out and arranged in
its natural position. Damaged or girdled roots shall be removed with a
clean cut. The beginning of the root flare shall be visible at soil level
when the tree is planted, since it is critical not to plant the tree too
deep. The following shall be performed:
a.
Plumb plant materials and backfill half of the hole with topsoil.
b.
Prior to backfilling, all metal, wood, and synthetic products
shall be removed from the ball or root system avoiding damage to
the root system. Biodegradable burlap and tying material shall be
carefully opened and folded back from the top a minimum 1/3 depth
from the top of the root ball.
c.
Water the hole to collapse air pockets.
d.
Backfill and gently firm topsoil.
e.
Clear soil mounded against trunk.
f.
An earth berm, consisting of backfill soil mixture, shall be
formed with a minimum 100 mm 4 inch height around the edge of the
plant pit to aid in water retention and to provide soil for
settling adjustments.
[3.4.2
Adding Mycorrhizal Fungi Inoculum
Mycorrhizal fungi inoculum shall be added as recommended by the
manufacturer for the plant material specified.
]3.4.3
Watering
A regular watering schedule shall be established. Slow deep watering shall
be used. Plant pits and plant beds shall be watered immediately after
backfilling, until completely saturated. Run-off and puddling shall be
prevented. Watering of other plant material or adjacent areas shall be
prevented.
SECTION 02915
Page 16
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