THE CONTRIBUTORY VALUE OF TREES TO RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN THE AUSTIN, TEXAS METROPOLITAN AREA

. Two methods for predicting the value trees con- tribute to residential property value in the Austin, Texas metropolitan area were tested. The formula method, used by professional plantsmen, and the predictive-modeling method, using regression analysis, were used to predict the value of trees on 120 homesites. The value of the homes ranged from $30,000 to $600,000 and represented homes typical of the A u s t i n, Texas area. Trees on all homesites were evaluated with the ISA formula method and given a dollar value. Independent variables representing the house and lot were used in the predictive modeling method to determine the value that the trees contribute to sales price. The value of the trees derived by the formula method was found to represent 13 percent of the actual sales price of homes while the value of trees derived by the predictive modeling method represented 19 percent. FERRANDIZ, 1988. The ABC's of tree fertilization. Grounds Maintenance 23(4): Knowing what makes up a good tree fertilizer is only half the story. To obtain a tree's full potential, you must know how to properly apply the fertilizer. The article concentrates on the methods and equipment for soil-applied tree fertilizers, including surface, drill and liquid fertilizations. Use a spreader, drill or liquid in-jector, depending on situations like compaction, slope, etc. Fertilize the root-zone area evenly on a grid pattern for drill- and liquid-injection methods. (The root zone refers to the tree canopy plus the area exten-ding one-third beyond the tree canopy.) Avoid the root flare. Fertilize in the fall. Use slow-release nitrogen fertilizers for most trees. Fertilize shade trees at 3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, at balance near 3:1:1 (for annual treatments). Reduce rates for conifers and broadleaf evergreens. Make the proper calculations to insure the correct fertilization rate. Don't place fertilizers more than 8-in below the soil sur-face. Be careful of electrical lines, sprinklers and other potential underground problems. 1988. Princes from Am. Nurseryman 168(5):63, 65-69.