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Heritage Tree Care

Assessment

Site inspection

Site inspection is a crucial first step in problem-solving and decision-making processes in environmental sciences.

The main objective of site inspection is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the site’s conditions, limitations, and opportunities. This includes assessing the physical features of the site, such as the terrain, topography, soil conditions, water sources, and infrastructure. Site inspection also involves evaluating the environmental conditions of the site, including the air quality, drainage, nearby chemicals, and other potential hazards.

During the site inspection, we document findings through photographs, sketches, and notes to ensure that all relevant information is captured. This information is then analysed to identify potential issues and causes that may require further investigation or remediation.

By being mindful early in the remediation process and identifying potential issues early, site inspections can help prevent costly mistakes, delays, and irreparable damage.

Site assessment

The aim of soil assessment is to understand the condition of soil and how it affects plant health and productivity. Soil assessment is critical in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving soil quality for the long-term.

Did you know that 90% of plant diseases are soil related?

Our initial visual inspection of soil can provide valuable information about its condition. Observing the soil life diversity, understory cover, root development, depth, structure, and type of soil, as well as the presence of earthworms, soil moisture, and compaction can provide insights into the health and quality of soil.

Soil samples are taken at various depths and locations to analyse the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil. Soil samples can be analysed for nutrients, pH, texture, organic matter, and heavy metal pollutants.

Plant Health assessment

We visually assess Plant dimensions: Plant height, spread, diameter at breast height, and number of trunks are measured to gain a better understanding of the overall size and growth patterns of the plant. This information can be used to evaluate the plant’s growth rate and to identify any abnormalities.

Canopy: The canopy of the plant is evaluated for its size, density, and epicormic growth. Canopy size can be an indicator of overall plant health, while density and epicormic growth can provide insights into the amount of light and nutrients the plant is receiving.

Canopy density and dieback: The density of the plant’s canopy is evaluated to determine whether the plant is receiving adequate light and nutrients. Dieback or the death of certain parts of the plant can be a sign of disease, pests, or other issues.

Foliage colour and size: The colour and size of the foliage can provide valuable information about the plant’s health. Discolouration or yellowing of leaves can indicate nutrient deficiencies, disease, or other issues, while small or misshapen leaves can be a sign of stress.

Chlorophyll and sugar content: Measuring the chlorophyll and sugar content of the plant can provide important indicators of plant health. Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis, while sugar content can indicate the plant’s ability to produce energy.

By evaluating these aspects of plant health, plant managers can identify potential issues and develop management strategies to improve plant health and productivity. Plant health assessment is essential in ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of plants and the environment.

Figure 1: soil investigation and sampling with battery mounted auger, soil moisture meter and penetrometer
Figure 2: soil sampling for testing
Figure 3: observation of soil horizons from soil sampled at different depths
Figure 4: soil moisture meter
Figure 5: Electrical conductivity measurement
Figure 6: Soil pH measurement (1:5 soil solution)
Figure 7: The jam jar test is a simple way to determine the soil texture of a soil sample. To perform the test, you will need a clear glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, a soil sample, and water.
Figure 8: soil sedimentation test (so called jam jar test) performed inhouse in our lab to identify soil type and structure. Sand, loam, clay and silt layer in a 1:5 soil solution.