๐ณ Love trees? We've got you covered! Welcome to Talking Trees, your daily podcast for everything arboriculture! Whether you're a seasoned arborist, a tree enthusiast, or just curious about the natural world, we bring you fresh, engaging content every day of the week: ๐ฑ Monday: Back to basics โ perfect for beginners and pros alike. ๐ง Tuesday: Climbing techniques and adventures in the canopy. โ๏ธ Wednesday: Hands-on tree care tips and tricks. ๐ Thursday: Dive into consulting and professional in ...
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In this Wednesday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the newly updated guidance from the National Tree Safety Group (NTSG) on applying common sense risk management to trees. Balancing public safety with the immense environmental and social benefits of trees is at the heart of this approach. We discuss: Why the overall risk from trees is very low,โฆ
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Tree climbing spikes, also known as spurs, are essential tools for specific arboricultural operations but come with important considerations. In this Tuesday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the different types of climbing spurs, focusing on materials like steel and aluminum, and gaff lengths suited for tree, pole, or hybrid work. We discuss: Hโฆ
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In this Monday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the vital processes of osmosis and root function that underpin healthy tree growth and establishment. Understanding how roots interact with their environment is crucial for arborists and anyone managing young or mature trees. We discuss: How osmotic processes drive water uptake and nutrient transpโฆ
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This is your weekly summary of the Talking Trees podcast! ๐ฑ Monday 142 - Easter and Tree Traditions We explored the symbolic connections between Easter celebrations and trees, highlighting the Tree of Life, Slavic spring rituals, and the deep-rooted relationship between seasonal traditions and nature. ๐ง Tuesday 143 - Elyโs London Plane โ Earth Day โฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Saturday episode of Talking Trees, we explore how urban trees and green spaces contribute to pollen allergenicity, a growing health concernโespecially as climate change alters pollen production patterns. We discuss: Findings from Florence and Cรณrdoba showing how urban park design, plant species selection, and park siโฆ
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In this special Arbor Day episode of Talking Trees, we shine a light on the role of consulting arborists and the importance of the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) in shaping the arboricultural profession. We discuss: The differences between arborists, certified arborists, and consulting arborists, focusing on training, experience, aโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Thursday episode of Talking Trees, we take a long-view perspective on one of humanityโs most transformative relationships: the discovery and use of fire, and its complex connection with trees and the natural world. We discuss: How early hominins first encountered natural wildfires and slowly began to control and harnโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Wednesday episode of Talking Trees, we take a critical look at how severe pruningโespecially toppingโaffects urban trees and their ability to provide ecosystem services. Drawing from the latest scientific research, we explore how pruning practices shape tree physiology, carbon capture, and microclimate regulation. Weโฆ
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In this special Earth Day episode of Talking Trees, we spotlight one of the UKโs most iconic trees: the Great London Plane of Ely. Celebrated as the largest of its kind in the country, this remarkable specimen stands not only as a botanical giant, but also as a symbol of heritage, science, and community engagement. We discuss: The historic and cultโฆ
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In this Monday holiday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the rich symbolic and cultural connections between Easter celebrations and trees. From the ancient Tree of Life to Slavic rituals involving willow branches, this episode weaves together mythology, art, and seasonal tradition. We discuss: The Tree of Life as a universal symbol of regeneratiโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode This is your weekly summary of the Talking Trees podcast โ bringing you a full week of arboricultural knowledge, inspiration, and science. ๐ฑ Monday 128 - Tree Interactions with Other Organisms We began the week exploring how trees coexist with fungi, animals, and microbes. Learn how mycorrhizal networks, competition, and symโฆ
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This is your weekly summary of the Talking Trees podcast โ exploring everything from microbiomes to medicine. Here's what we uncovered this week: ๐ฑ Monday 135 - Street Trees and Soil Microbiota We opened the week underground, exploring how microbial life in the rhizosphere supports urban street trees. Bacteria, fungi, and endophytes form biochemicaโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Saturday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the pharmacological potential of trees, focusing on two iconic species: Fraxinus (ash tree) and Salix alba (white willow). Both have long histories in traditional medicine and are now gaining attention in modern pharmacological research. We discuss: The presence of powerfโฆ
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International Society of Arboriculture = ISA
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13:07In this Friday episode of Talking Trees, we celebrate the legacy and ongoing impact of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)โthe worldโs leading organization dedicated to advancing the profession of arboriculture. We explore: The history of ISA, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024 The evolution of its scientific journal from tโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Thursday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the emerging and complex connections between exposure to trees and green spaces and the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer. While research is still developing, recent studies have started to uncover possible protective effects of urban greenery on human health. Weโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Wednesday episode of Talking Trees, we investigate the powerful and often underestimated role of lightning in the life and death of trees. Lightning not only causes physical damage but may also shape tree evolution and biodiversity over time. We explore: How lightning strikes affect tree aging, decay processes, and hโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Tuesday episode of Talking Trees, we focus on the often underappreciated but absolutely essential role of the Groundieโthe ground worker in tree care operations. Inspired by Jeff Jepsonโs book Groundie, we explore what it takes to thrive in this demanding position. We discuss: The core responsibilities of a ground woโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Monday episode of Talking Trees, we uncover the hidden world beneath our feetโthe soil microbiota that supports and sustains urban street trees. This episode dives into the crucial roles played by bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms living in the rhizosphere and within tree tissues. We discuss: How microbial coโฆ
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In this Friday episode of Talking Trees, we celebrate the remarkable career of Dr. Mark Johnston, a pioneer in urban forestry whose lifeโs work has shaped tree care across the UK and beyond. Drawing from his autobiographical reflections in the 2024 TREES e-book, this episode offers a personal and professional journey through decades of dedication tโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode Episode Summary (English): In this Saturday episode of Talking Trees, we examine the devastating impact of Chalara fraxinea (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus), the fungal pathogen behind ash dieback in Europe. We explore the spread, symptoms, and susceptibility factors affecting Fraxinus excelsior and other ash species, including finโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Thursday episode of Talking Trees, we examine one of the most contentious questions in urban arboriculture: who should bear the cost of protecting trees? Focusing on legal and planning frameworks in the United States, the episode explores how local tree protection ordinances can spark conflict between environmental gโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Wednesday episode of Talking Trees, we dig into the science and practice of tree injections, also known as vegetative endotherapy. This method of delivering substances directly into a tree's vascular system is transforming plant care, especially in managing pests and diseases. We explore: The history and development โฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this Tuesday episode of Talking Trees, we ascend into the practical world of structural substrates and their critical role in supporting healthy urban trees, especially in areas with paved surfaces and compacted soils. We focus on Cornell Universityโs CU-Structural Soilยฎ system, an engineered soil blend combining crushed โฆ
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๐ Tree Interactions with Other Organisms
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12:53Subscriber-only episode In this Monday episode of Talking Trees, we dive into the intricate world of how trees interact with a wide range of other organismsโfrom fungi, lichens, and microbes to insects, birds, and mammals. These relationships are fundamental to ecosystem balance, biodiversity support, and forest resilience. Drawing from recent reseโฆ
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This is your weekly summary of the Talking Trees podcast โ bringing you expert insights and practical knowledge from Monday to Saturday. Hereโs what we covered this week: ๐ฑ Monday 121 - Function of Assimilation Apparatus We explored the role of the assimilation apparatus โ leaves and needles โ in photosynthesis and stress adaptation. Learn how treeโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we dive into the bacterial disease Erwinia amylovora, commonly known as fire blight. Listeners learn about the origins, biology, and symptoms of this aggressive pathogen that primarily affects apple and pear trees. The discussion covers essential practices for managing outbreaks, including pโฆ
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In this episode, listeners meet renowned arboricultural expert David Lonsdale. David shares his inspiring journey and extensive experience, discussing his insights on tree pathology, tree risk assessment, and management strategies that promote healthy urban forests. He provides practical knowledge blended with anecdotes from his long career, highliโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode, we explore the methodologies and importance of calculating tree values, focusing on how arborists and municipalities assess the financial, ecological, and aesthetic worth of urban trees. We discuss common valuation techniques, including the Replacement Cost Method and the Amenity Valuation approach, highlighโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode Todayโs episode takes us into the world of pollarding, a classic pruning technique thatโs still relevant in modern arboriculture. We explore the difference between pollarding and topping, explain why the term โpollardโ can be misunderstood, and discuss its advantages, especially in urban environments. Youโll also learn aboutโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In today's episode, we delve into the crucial topic of soil decompaction. Compacted soils severely hinder tree root growth and water infiltration, impacting overall tree health. We explore practical methods for addressing soil compaction, including air spading, vertical mulching, and the use of compost or biochar. Youโll alsโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the function of the assimilation apparatus in treesโnamely, the leaves and needles that drive photosynthesis and support tree vitality. We discuss: The structure and role of leaves and needles in gas exchange and energy production How morphological and anatomical adaptations help โฆ
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This is your weekly summary of the Talking Trees podcast. Letโs revisit the fascinating episodes we explored this week: ๐ฑ Monday 114 - Pulleys and Friction Rings We kicked off the week with a look at the essential climbing gearโpulleys and friction rings. We discussed their functions, differences, and best use cases in tree work. ๐ง Tuesday 115 - Stโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the close relationship between trees and bats, highlighting the essential role trees play as habitat providers for these fascinating nocturnal mammals. Bats rely on old, hollow, or dead trees for roosting, breeding, and protectionโmaking arboriculture an important ally in bat consโฆ
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In this episode of Talking Trees, we pay tribute to Dr. Alex Shigo, the father of modern arboriculture. His groundbreaking research on tree biology, particularly the CODIT model (Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees), revolutionized how arborists understand and care for trees. We discuss: His pioneering work at the U.S. Forest Service The shift fโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the cultural and spiritual significance of trees throughout human history, focusing on the concept of Cultus Arborumโthe ancient reverence and ritual worship of trees across civilizations. We discuss: Historical tree veneration โ From sacred groves in Celtic and Germanic traditionโฆ
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๐ Mechanosensitive Control of Plant Growth
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14:58
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14:58Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the fascinating world of mechanosensitive control in plant growthโhow trees and plants perceive, respond to, and even adapt to mechanical forces from their surroundings and their own structure. We discuss: Mechanosensing basics โ How plants detect tension, compression, and mechaniโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the Stockholm Soil systemโan innovative urban tree planting method designed to support healthy root development and infrastructure compatibility. This Swedish-engineered approach combines load-bearing stone aggregates with structured soil and biochar, enabling robust tree growth eโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the mechanical principles and real-world performance of pulleys and friction rings in arboricultural operations. These components are essential tools for arborists when it comes to lifting, lowering, and redirecting loads safely and efficiently. We discuss: Mechanical advantage anโฆ
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Welcome to this week's recap of Talking Trees, where we summarize the key insights from Monday to Saturday. Letโs dive into what we covered this week! ๐ฑ Monday 107 - Hirons - Applied Tree Biology We explored the essential principles of tree biology as outlined in Dr. Andrew Hirons' book Applied Tree Biology. Topics included tree anatomy, root functโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we examine Pseudomonas syringae pv. aesculi, the bacterial pathogen responsible for horse chestnut bleeding cankerโa serious disease affecting Aesculus hippocastanum across Europe. Topics discussed: Identification and symptoms โ How to recognize bleeding canker through bark lesions, dark exuโฆ
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Singapore Biodiversity Index - International Day of Forests
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15:50
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15:50In this special episode of Talking Trees, we highlight the International Day of Forests and its significance in promoting global awareness of forest conservation. Established by the United Nations, this annual event encourages efforts to protect and restore forests worldwide. We also explore the Singapore Biodiversity Index, a tool designed to measโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the complex relationship between tree roots and buildings, a critical issue in urban arboriculture and landscape planning. While trees provide numerous ecological and aesthetic benefits in cities, their roots can sometimes interfere with foundations, underground utilities, and pavโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the use of compost tea in arboriculture and sustainable plant management. Compost tea is an organic liquid extract derived from compost that contains beneficial microorganisms, nutrients, and bioactive compounds. It is gaining attention as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers aโฆ
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๐ Forces Acting on the Anchors During Ascent in SRT
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10:29Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the forces exerted on anchor points during Single Rope Technique (SRT) ascents in tree climbing. Understanding these forces is crucial for ensuring climber safety, rope longevity, and anchor stability in professional arboriculture. We discuss: How different factors affect anchor sโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore Applied Tree Biology, a fundamental resource for arborists and tree care professionals. Written by Dr. Andrew Hirons and Peter Thomas, this book provides a deep dive into tree physiology, structure, and managementโbridging the gap between scientific research and practical arboricuโฆ
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Welcome to this week's recap of Talking Trees, where we summarize the key insights from Monday to Saturday. Letโs dive into what we covered this week! ๐ฑ Monday 100 - Ecobenefits and Disservices of Trees We explored the balance between the benefits and challenges of trees in urban and natural environments. While trees provide essential services likeโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we examine Kretzschmaria deusta, a wood-decaying fungus that poses a significant threat to tree stability and longevity. Often referred to as "brittle cinder", this fungus is notorious for causing white rot and soft decay, making trees structurally compromised before visible external symptomโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore tree dynamics, focusing on how trees respond to external forces such as wind, gravity, and mechanical stress. Understanding tree motion and flexibility is essential for arborists, urban foresters, and engineers working with tree stability assessments and risk management. We discusโฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore root penetrating radar (RPR), a non-invasive technology used to assess tree root systems without excavation. Understanding root architecture is crucial for tree stability, health assessments, and urban planning. We discuss: How ground-penetrating radar (GPR) works โ The basics of โฆ
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Subscriber-only episode In this episode of Talking Trees, we explore the use of wound dressings in arboriculture and whether they truly benefit trees. For decades, arborists and tree care professionals have debated their effectiveness in preventing decay, promoting healing, and reducing infections. We discuss: Tree wound response mechanisms โ How tโฆ
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