Dr Glynn Percival manages the UK and Ireland Bartlett Tree Research and Diagnostic Laboratory based at the University of Reading and talks about how new growth on willow trees that makes a mulch that boosts fruit tree health.
He and his team have been studying single source mulches - which are made up of the bark and branches of just one species of tree (like willow or eucalyptus) and preliminary studies have found a single soil application of these amendments provides long lasting, broad spectrum control of several fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens.
The prize for this episode is a Silky Zubat 330 Handsaw valued at $76.99 USD donated by Bartlett Tree Experts.
The host of the Orchard People radio show and podcast is Susan Poizner of the fruit tree care education website http://www.orchardpeople.com.
Formerly known as the Urban Forestry Radio Show, from germination in January 2016 until December 2023, we have grown over the years, thanks to the collective knowledge and collaboration of our monthly guests, organizations, and audience from around the world.
We offer something for everyone to support your fruit tree care journey, whether you prefer to learn through listening, watching, and/or reading.
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- (00:00) - Introduction and Disclaimer
- (00:33) - Welcome to the Urban Forestry Radio Show
- (01:37) - Challenges in Growing Fruit Trees
- (02:15) - Boosting Fruit Tree Immune Systems
- (03:06) - Guest Introduction: Dr. Glynn Percival
- (03:48) - The Benefits of Mulching
- (04:37) - Research on Single Source Mulches
- (07:38) - Listener Questions and Expert Answers: What difference does mulch from different parts of the tree make, when to apply mulch, what species or types of trees produce good mulch
- (21:39) - Willow Mulch and Tree Immune Systems
- (39:51) - Future Research and Applications
- (45:34) - Conclusion and Farewell
