2010 Construction and Material Specifications - Ohio Department of ...

Locate Seedlings, Groundcovers, Vines or Perennials as specified in the plan.
621
661.13
661.13 Mulch. Smooth and shape the backfill mix to form a shallow basin
slightly larger than the planting hole. Mulch these areas with a 4-inch (100 mm)
layer of finely shredded hardwood bark of uniform texture and size. Mulch shall
not be placed in direct contact with the trunk of the tree. Use shredded bark aged at
least one year. Rake and smooth the entire area of the planting beds.
After mulching and before watering, add a slow release commercial fertilizer
(12-12-12 or equal), in granular form, to the top of the mulch at a rate of 5 pounds
per 100 square feet (0.25 kg/m 2 ). Do not allow the fertilizer to contact the stems,
trunk, branches, or leaves of the plants.
Water thoroughly as per 661.17.
661.14 Pruning. To balance the loss of roots after planting, prune the branches
of deciduous plants to preserve the natural characteristics of the species, following
standard horticultural practices. Remove broken, damaged, and unsymmetrical
branches and other growth to ensure healthy and symmetrical growth of new
wood. Do not trim the central leader of the trees.
661.15 Wrapping. Wrap all single deciduous tree trunks of 1 inch (25 mm)
caliper and larger. Before wrapping, inspect for insect infestation and take
corrective measures. Wrap trees within 48 hours after planting, using a doublelayered,
bituminous-cemented, waterproof, crinkled paper. Start at the ground and
wrap the trunk neatly and snugly to the height of the first branches, then attach
securely. With each turn of the wrapping, overlap the previous turn by half the
width of the paper.
661.16 Bracing. Brace all trees by staking as shown on the Standard
Construction Drawing LA-1.2. Only flexible or biodegradable ties shall be used
when staking trees. Staking should only be used in areas where mower damage,
vandalism, or windy conditions are a concern or as directed by the Engineer. The
ties shall be loose fitting, (as not to girdle the truck) attached to the lower half of
the tree, and allow trunk movement and growth. All staking and wrapping
materials shall be removed at the end of the establishment period.
661.17 Period of Establishment. Before final inspection, place all plants and
care for them for a period of establishment. The period of establishment begins
immediately upon completion of the planting operations and continues until
October 1. The minimum period of establishment is one growing season, June 1
through October 1.
During the period of establishment, follow standard horticultural practices to
ensure the vigor and growth of the transplanted material. Water, remulch, restake,
and cultivate as necessary. Perform at least two weeding and mowing programs
(around trees, shrubs, and bed edges) of such intensity as to completely rid the
planted and mulched areas of weeds and grasses. Begin the first program on or
about June 15 and the second approximately 8 weeks later.
On or about September 15, the Engineer will inspect the planting and supply the
Contractor with a list of plants that have fallen over or are tilted from plumb,
missing or, dead; and those that have died back beyond normal pruning lines.