Hi all,

Anyone out there have any information on how a Larix Occidentalis might fare, if planted in a low-elevation, urban environment? Specific site is lower Willamette Valley. Suggestions? Anecdotes? Info?

Thanks!
....... John

Let me begin by stating that I have never grown or personally cared for a Larix occidentalis (Western Larch). For some reason, the species finds the prairie-scape of southern Manitoba inhospitable!

With that said, I do know that this species is elevation specific. They tend to thrive at elevations between 400 and 1500 meters (approx 1200 to 4500 feet), on deep, well-drained, coarsely textured, moist soils, typically found on northern and western exposed slopes. I would think that if you were to take such a species from its natural environment and plant it in a low elevation, poor soil composition, urban environment, you would soon find that the tree will appear stressed. This is not to say that the tree won't work, but I would definitely figure out you elevation, exposure direction, and soil composition. 2-3 inches of black soil is not sufficient enough to sustain this timber producer! You may find that the necessary soil amendments could be to great for the desired results!

If you could supply us with some additional information (ie - elevation and soil composition), then perhaps I or someone else will be able to assist you further!

T. Shane Freeman
...Advice from North of the Border...

Shane,

Thanks for responding. The tree in question is a Larch that was donated to the Museum of Natural History, located here in Eugene on the campus of the University of Oregon. They kind of have the hots to plant anything that is "native to Oregon" around their grounds. They asked me if it would perform well here. I could give them no anecdotal guidance, being unfamiliar with the species. I know that some species of our "natives" are more forgiving (regarding altitude) than others. Your letter tends to confirm my instincts that this is not one of them.
As to the specific altitude and soil type on site: altitude is a woeful (for the Larch anyway) 450 feet, and the soil is likely a mixture of some compost/loam (maybe 10 in.?) on top of clays and rocks. Drainage; average to poor. The tree is pot-grown, 7 feet tall.
They want me to give my blessings to the planting, but now I'm thinking Last Rites may be more appropriate....


........ John