Tree Myths
- Trees waste water: A young tree needs about 15 gallons of water a week. That's equal to 10 flushes of the average toilet. And remember, trees promote rainfall by slowing wind evaporation and generating moisture into the air.
- Trees crack sidewalks: Only if they're not planted or cared for properly. Avoid sidewalk problems by selecting proper species, and providing routine tree care and watering.
- Tree roots invade sewer pipes: Tree roots can only enter sewer pipes if the sewer pipe is already broken.
- Tree basins attract unwanted animals: Here's a simple solution: use animal repellents to keep away pets in need of an outhouse.
- All insects and fungi that live on, in, and around trees are harmful: Less than 1% of the fungi and insects that live anywhere on or near trees are harmful. Insects help pollinate other plants, and there are many beneficial types of fungus. (For example, decay fungi rot the base of dead branches, which helps in shedding.)
- Trees create mess: Prevent this potential problem by selecting trees that don't drop leaves, flowers, or fruit.
- Trees attract vandalism: Install protective wire mesh around the tree's crown for the first years of its life.
- Trees invite crime: On the contrary, the presence of trees communicates the message that neighbors care about what goes on around them.
- Trees are expensive: Not if you plant with Friends of the Urban Forest. FUF's maximum charge is ony one-half the cost of doing it yourself.
- Trees require expensive maintenance: The cost of keeping up your tree is a fraction of the amount it will add to the value of your property. Regular maintenance keeps costs low.
- Trees are not native to San Francisco: Neither are the people nor the buildings. These days trees are an integral part of our attractive, vibrant city. Withouth them our urban world would be cold, lifeless, and uninviting.
