Planting a fresh start

  In 1990 the Grosse Pointe Woods City Hall planted crabapple trees to reflect an English garden, however, 40 years later, these closely planted trees have become non-productive. Ever since, the Grosse Pointe Woods Community Tree Commission has been actively working to replace the grove. Following their efforts, the Commission alongside chair member Paul Lechner have drafted a plan to revamp the grove.

Since the crabapple trees were placed so closely together, they were unable to sustain a long life. However, Lechner and the Tree Commission have begun the process of identifying the causes of the trees’ deaths, while also actively working to replace the dying trees to prevent future losses. 

“There are examples of significant negative outcomes when only one type of tree is planted,” Lechner said. “This is especially concerning when they have a limited lifespan or when they are susceptible to a specific disease or damaging insect. A significant number of trees could be lost in a very short period.” 

As the City of Grosse Pointe Woods City Hall addresses the unfortunate state of the grove and the consequences that are paired with it, junior Maggie Dunn believes the community can celebrate this Arbor Day by learning more about the state of our environment. Arbor Day was April 26 this year and is solely dedicated to publicly planting trees.

  “It’s an informative holiday for those who want to get more involved or educated about the environment, especially those who might not be familiar with the importance of protecting the environment such as children,” Dunn said.

In addition to Dunn’s hopes of her community getting informed on Arbor Day, the Grosse Pointe Community Tree Commission has a hopeful plan to bring the grove back to life. According to Lechner, the Commission has high expectations for refurbishing the grove, as they plan to replace the decaying trees and create a completely new layout for the grove.

“The proposal is to replace the groves of blighted or dying crabapple trees,” Lechner said.  “Each replaced grove will then be centered with a White oak tree encircled by Linden trees with pavers and reset memorial markers.  This symmetrical design allows for much greater spacing between the trees than with the current crabapple groves.”