Trees and the Asian Subterranean Termite

There's a new pest affecting south Florida hardwood trees, the Asian Subterranean termite. Trees weakened by termite activity are more likely to fail during hurricane and high wind events, potentially causing considerable damage to people and property. Rapid tree decline, failure and death are common indicators of termite infestations. Due to the typically large size of the colony, 24 hour feeding cycle and the ability of the termites to penetrate concrete they can cause substantial damage to building and trees alike.

Tree hosts for this particular termite are varied and currently include but are not solely limited to Sabal Palm, Live Oak, Laurel Oak, Gumbo Limbo and Slash Pine trees. Typically this termite swarms between the months of February and April in Florida, so be aware of any swarming activity you see near your trees and property especially during this time. Currently the only effective treatment method is through the use of bait stations to eliminate the entire colony.  For additional information please visit the following University of Florida website.

Termite Colony Snapshot

Image used courtesy of morningagclips.com

Termite caused damage to wood structure.

Image used courtesy of palmbeachcivic.org

Termite damage present on a mature Live Oak Tree.

Image used courtesy of Twitter user @Chouvencl

South Florida Palms and Lethal Bronzing

There's a new palm disease to be aware of called Lethal Bronzing that can potentially impact some of our most prestigious south Florida. Common symptoms include premature fruit drop (fruit is stunted, brown and or dead along with dead inflorescences), gradual browning of older leaves, then death of young/new fronds and eventually spear leaf death (center most frond growth point). While costly preventative measures are available unfortunately, there is no cure for infected palms and the only course of action once a palm is confirmed as infected is total removal. If you suspect a palm may have Lethal Bronzing please contact the local Broward County Cooperative Extension Service for additional advice and potential testing. Additional information about Lethal Bronzing can be found at the following IFAS website.

 Necrotic lower Sabal Palm fronds and dead spear leaf. (c) The Daytona Beach News Journal 

Canary Palm almost completely dead with spear leaf dying (c) Fox 13 News

Premature fruit drop and necrotic inflorescences of Coconut Palm. (c) The Florida Alligator

Annie Beck Memorial Tree

In early 1930, Fort Lauderdale resident and pioneer Ms. Annie Beck planted a tree seedling in front of her home, growing into what has become a cherished local treasure. Her Silver Trumpet tree (Tabebuia caraiba) has provided years of enjoyment with its golden floral displays and corky-textured bark. Over the course of our seasonal history, this tree survived many hurricanes and a few environmental challenges. But, it may not have withstood the pressures of redevelopment without the help of the Fort Lauderdale Garden Club (originally founded by Ms. Annie Beck in 1927) who sought out a new and permanent home for this historic tree.

In November of 1997, ISA Certified Arborist and local landscape architect L.Thomas Chancey was hired to oversee the tree relocation project. Because of the tree’s age, species, condition and the existing soil characteristics, this project proved to be a worthy challenge.

From November of 1997 through June of 1998, manual root pruning was first performed in segments over a seven-month time period. Root pruning was an important step in making sure that the roots had adequate time to begin regenerating prior to relocation. In order to avoid any further root damage, it was also necessary to gradually remove existing coral rocks that had embedded over time into the tree’s roots. A tree protection fence was also installed around the tree’s dripline to protect the tree from ongoing construction activities.

Finally, on July 25, 1998 the tree was successfully transplanted using a large crane. A steel rod was drilled into the tree trunk and straps wrapping the roots were attached to it. The crane then lifted the secured tree and moved it to its new, permanent home on the NE corner of Bubier Park located at 32 E Las Olas Blvd in Fort Lauderdale. From that day forward, this iconic Silver Trumpet tree is affectionately referred to as The Annie Beck Tree. Original news article concerning the tree’s move is available here.

Today, the Annie Beck Tree continues to thrive, boldly showcasing its spectacular flower display and unique trunk structure, much to the pleasure and amazement of City of Fort Lauderdale neighbors and delighted out-of-town guests.

 Tree being relocated by crane July 25, 1998.

 Fort Lauderdale Garden Club members Rose Bechard-Butman & Ann Schandelmayer by the tree July 25, 1998.

ISA Certified Arborist and local landscape architect L. Thomas Chancey visiting the tree April 23, 1999.

Annie Beck Tree Today