Here in Atlanta, we're, hopefully, nearing the end of the worst drought in state history. I'm starting to see trees go into early leaf abcission and call it quits for the season. There are, unfortunately, many people who believe their trees are dead and need to be removed. A lot of these folks have been told this by either unknowledgeable, or uncaring tree cutters. I'm having a hard time convincing people otherwise.

I'm thinking of using starch testing as a means of demonstrating that trees in early dormancy still contain living tissue. Has anyone ever used starch testing for this purpose, or have any suggestions for doing so? My initial thought is to cut a small stem portion, stain it with I-KI solution and show clients the results under a microscope, or macroscope. I'd appreciate any experience, insights, and suggestions about this approach. Thanks to all.

Tom

Reply to post by Tom Watson, on August 23, 2000 at 13:57:09:

Tom,

Not as an answer to your question, but why don't you write a letter to the editor (or call the local newspaper) and publicize your opinions on this important story. You will be performing a public service as well as promoting yourself AND our important profession and industry. You may also try the TV and/or radio stations. Keep us posted on your mission.

Lew

Reply to post by Tom Watson, on August 23, 2000 at 13:57:09:

I started using I2K stain many years ago. One of my first uses was similar- predicting the condition of ash trees that had been severely defoliated for 2 years in a row by ash rust disease. BAsed on early work by Phillip Wargo, I used 1/2 inch diameter pieces of root. The roots are more sensitive to starch storage in many trees, but there may be more seasonal differences.

I found I had about a 70 to 80% accuracy in predicting the trees. Trees that showed moderate or high levels of starch in the roots made it through the third winter OK, those with low levels either died or were declining the next spring.

The one thing you will need to do is get some comparisons for healthy trees. Find some that have been properly irrigated and under less stress, or take a vacation to a non-drought area. Don't try to judge the trees without a baseline to compare.

Click on the link in this page header to Tech Reports, and read the file about Starch Testing- Lugol's Stain. It has more information.

Reply to post by Russ Carlson, on August 23, 2000 at 13:57:09:

Couldn't you just cut a twig and show that there is live green tissue?

I've had to do this here in Milwaukee on severaql occasions, cut a twig and break a bud open to show that the plant is still alive.

You could easily use this as a demo on say a TV news broadcast.

Inform the public that all they have to do is look at the ends of most twigs to find the buds. Maybe even suggest that due to environmental stresses, it would be best to not do any heavy pruning this year or next. That would upset the Hack & Slash tree services.