Post date: May 8, 2015 4:03:44 AM
We actually received some tree and shrub seedlings today — several days after the original plan (on “Taos time”, as we say here). There were not just a few sumac to go along the fence but also 40 thin leaf alder (Alnus incana tenuifolia), a large shrub or tree (up to 40’) that is native to this general area, but prefers abundant water, but may survive on drier sites. We don’t have abundant water, but planted them and hoped for the best. The sites with water (along the irrigation canal) would block views that some of our neighbors want to retain. These must be protected from our mowing operations — which we use to suppress thistle flowering.
We also got three inland Douglas-fir seedlings (Pseudotsuga menziesii) which also grow in the southern Rockies. Whereas the coastal Douglas-fir has very shallow roots, the inland variety tends to have deeper taproots, which it will definitely need if it is to survive here. Because these seedlings are not shade-tolerant we will need to keep them well weeded until they are taller.