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[+]Ciscogeek0 points3 points3 points
ago
(edited ago)
[–]Ciscogeek0 points
3 points
3 points
(+3|-0)
ago
(edited ago)
Yea, It looks that way. I just did some quick searching. It looks like the Oak spreads out more horizontally than vertically. Image
Even with the slice of land they're moving it still seems far too little to have encompassed the bulk of the root system. I have a feeling that tree might not make it once transplanted. It could have been a PR stunt to shut up activists.
Young oaks are more flexible than older ones. While young oaks can generally adapt and survive under a variety of conditions, mature oaks are extremely sensitive to change and can be weakened or killed by any number of activities.
This is because of their elaborate root system, developed over decades, that transports moisture and nutrients and provides structural support for the growing tree. Any activity that damages the roots can compromise a mature tree.
The root system begins in the acorn. Most of an acorn’s energy goes into the fast-growing tap root that probes deep underground to seek reliable moisture. Tap root growth continues for the first few years after which the tree’s resources can finally go into above-ground and leaf growth.
Lateral roots have a different job. They spread out horizontally in the top 2 or 3 feet of soil and provide structural support for the tree. They also have fine roots that absorb moisture and nutrients. As the oak matures, it sends out deep vertical roots from the laterals which find deeper soil moisture as well as add stability.
With all of these roots in place the mature oak becomes quite set in its ways. Any activity (e.g., grading, filling, trenching, paving) that removes roots, compacts the soil, or changes moisture availability may affect the permeability of the soil and the tree’s ability to exchange gas and moisture, and thus harm the tree. Poor drainage can smother roots and promote fungi that cause crown and root rot.
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[–] aakaakaak 0 points 7 points 7 points (+7|-0) ago
Is it just me or is that not a lot of root structure for an old oak tree? Don't they go like, everywhere?
[–] Ciscogeek 0 points 3 points 3 points (+3|-0) ago (edited ago)
Yea, It looks that way. I just did some quick searching. It looks like the Oak spreads out more horizontally than vertically.
Image Even with the slice of land they're moving it still seems far too little to have encompassed the bulk of the root system. I have a feeling that tree might not make it once transplanted. It could have been a PR stunt to shut up activists.
But what do I know. This is mostly speculation.
Edit: The Cali Forest Stewardship has some more info that seems to concur with my thoughts
Edit2:
I found the source video:
A still from the base shows there was no way they captured enough roots to sustain this tree:
[–] MaunaLoona ago
Considering how little sense it makes to try to save the tree, it's more about making a feel-good attempt than necessarily saving the tree.