New Investment Tree
Curly Poplar
Information on
page 13
Hardwood Investment Timber Trees
For excellent returns on your timber investments, plant genetically
superior hardwood timber trees. These choice Black Walnut,
White Oak, Black Cherry and
Curly Poplar trees grow faster
D V A N C E D
and straighter than common
seedlings with a planting
REE ECHNOLOGY
to harvest span as short as
12818 Edgerton Rd. New Haven, IN 46774
20 - 30 years.
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T
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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
About Genetically Superior Black Walnut
and Black Cherry Hardwood Trees
1
What are genetically
superior trees?
Years of research have proven that trees of the
same species will have diverse genetics that
affect form (i.e. straightness), speed of growth,
seed production and other traits. Using a
scientific testing and selection process, we can
offer superior trees that carry the best of
genetic traits.
Are they as hardy as
other walnut and black
cherry trees?
4
Under ideal conditions, genetically superior
black walnut and black cherry trees can
be harvested as early as 25 to 30 years,
depending on the soil, weed and pest control,
weather and other variables. Seedlings take
about five to ten years longer. The age of the
tree at harvest is actually determined by the
size of the log you wish to sell.
2
In our experience, they are extremely hardy.
Their resistance to disease is high and, with
proper care, should experience no major
disease problem.
3
Are there special requirements
to grow these trees?
Proper care, use of tree shelters and site/soil
selection – see page 6 for more details.
A care and pruning guide is given with each
order.
At what age will the trees
reach maturity?
5
When is the best time
to plant?
In southern zones 7 and 8 you may plant
dormant trees fall, winter or early spring
(November thru April). In northern zones 4,
5 and 6, early spring (March, April and
May) is the best time to plant. These dates
apply to our White Oak and Curly Poplar tress
as well. We have successfully planted 1 to 2
months later than these dates in the spring,
but close attention to soil moisture is
required on late season plantings. See our
zone map at www.advancedtree.com or call
us for more details.
For 25 plus years Advanced Tree Technology has
grafted, grown, sold and maintained hundreds of
thousands of genetically superior hardwood timber trees
in several states. Our improved trees include Black
Walnut, White Oak, Black Cherry and Curly Poplar. We also
have produced and sold over 2 million genetically superior
seedlings from these grafted trees and currently maintain
a large plantation of genetically superior trees from which we harvest scion wood and seed
for propagation. The owners of Advanced Tree Technology personally oversee the collection
of seed and scion wood from these plantations to ensure the best genetics in what we sell.
2
A D VA N C E D T R E E T E C H N O L O G Y
Genetically superior black walnut
trees at 11 years in Northern Indiana.
3
6
How long can I hold the trees
upon receipt?
Trees should be planted immediately upon
receipt. If need be, trees can be held up to 3
days in a cool (not freezing) location out of
direct sunlight. If trees need to be held longer
than 3 days contact us for detailed storage
instructions.
7
How far apart should they
be planted?
Walnut Grafts: plant at 15 ft. x 20 ft. spacing
with no thinning in later years.
Walnut Seedlings: plant at 15 ft. x 20 ft.
spacing with no thinning OR plant 12 ft. x 20
ft. spacing and thin after 10 years to 140
trees per acre.
Cherry Grafts: plant at 15 ft. x 15 ft.
spacing and thin after 10 years to 140 trees
per acre.
Cherry Seedlings: plant at 10 ft. x 15 ft.
spacing and thin after 10 years to 140 trees
per acre.
8
10 How can I prevent deer
from feeding on the trees?
The best way to prevent damage from deer
and rabbits is to use tree shelters. Additional
methods are included in the instruction
manual. A mixture of two dozen eggs and a
gallon of milk sprayed on the foliage has
worked well to prevent deer browse.
11
If the trees grow too fast, will
the quality of veneer suffer?
This is a common misconception. According to
a study by the USDA Forest Service’s Forest
Products Laboratory, they found increased
lignin, higher specific gravity, darker color and
better tooling characteristics in faster growing
black walnut. Besides, it’s not the closeness of
the grain but the variation that makes a
beautiful veneer. Therefore, speed of growth
has little to do with how attractive it is.
Moreover, many veneer and furniture
companies prefer the more uniform quality of
plantation-grown hardwoods to provide
consistency throughout their product lines.
Is there any guarantee?
What if the trees die?
We guarantee the plants supplied are in live,
healthy condition. Once plants have left our
control it is up to you, the grower, to look
after them properly and follow provided
instructions. In the unlikely event any trees die
within the first year, they will be replaced at a
reduced price. Guarantee is located on our
order form.
9
How are the trees shipped?
Superior seedlings and grafted trees
are shipped dormant bareroot. This means the
trees are dug from the field or removed from
the containers when dormant and the soil is
removed from the roots. Trees are packed with
moist peat moss to ensure live, healthy roots
and are shipped UPS/FedEx or may be picked
up at the nursery.
4
An excellent plantation of genetically superior
walnut trees in Kansas.
A D VA N C E D T R E E T E C H N O L O G Y
Genetically Superior White Oak (Quercus alba)
We are continuing research on superior White
Oak trees. The parent trees show superior form
and speed of growth. We have a limited
supply available at this time. The White Oak
trees are grafted onto Bur Oak rootstock,
which grows in a wider range of soils than
standard White Oak trees.
They can be planted in heavy clay soils and in
moist areas. Annual growth rates up to .8
caliper inch average have been experienced in
some early plantings.
We now have seedling production available
from our best performing grafted White Oak
trees. Grafts and seedlings are both suitable
for plant hardiness in zones 4 - 7.
These seedlings will grow best on soils in the
native White Oak range which can vary from
rich, well-drained, flat soils to rolling clay soils
with good surface drainage. Do not plant
White Oak seedlings on flat, heavy, wet clay
sites or high PH alkaline sites. Use the
grafted White Oak on Bur Oak rootstock in
these conditions. See page 2 for appropriate
planting time.
Planting recommendations:
White Oak grafts: plant at 15 ft. x 20 ft.
spacing.
White Oak seedings: plant at 15 ft. x 20 ft.
spacing OR 12 ft. x 12 ft. spacing and thin
after 10 years to 140 trees per acre.
White Oak at 4 years from an 18” graft.
White Oak at 6 years old – shown in winter.
12
A D VA N C E D T R E E T E C H N O L O G Y
15
What are tree shelters?
Tree shelters are the ideal way to
protect your trees and speed growth at the
same time. Statistics reported in the August
1988 issue of the Journal of Forestry show that
tree shelters can boost tree height more than
six times above normal in the first two years
alone. They protect young trees from wind, hail
and even drought, as well as from deer, rabbits
and other animals. Also, when contact
herbicides are sprayed around young trees, the
shelters protect the lower leaves from any
contact with the herbicide.
What are the best soil
16
types for the genetically
superior black walnut and
black cherry trees?
There are hundreds of soil types in which these
trees grow well. Generally, any well-drained
rich soil will suffice. Check the soil survey map
for your area. If you send us the soil survey
book for your county and the soil map of your
site, we will give you recommendations based
on our
experience.
Under ideal
There is no
conditions, genetically
superior black walnut
charge for
and black cherry tree
this service.
grafts can be
A soil survey
harvested in just
of your
25 to 30 years.
county is
available
from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) which is a
department of the federal government. This is
a valuable tool when analyzing your site. Have
your soil survey sent to us and we will help
you determine suitability of your site, prior to
planting.
6
“Proper care” has been
mentioned several times.
What is proper care?
17
Detailed instructions on proper care and
maintenance will be provided when you
purchase trees. In general, proper care involves
use of mulch on newly planted trees, use of
tree shelters, providing nutrients and water,
proper and timely pruning, weed and pest
control.
18
What government programs
are available to help me?
Numerous programs on both the local and
national level are available. Check with your
district forester, your county extension agent
and your local Farm Service Agency (FSA)
office for more information. Your initial
plantation costs up to $10,000 may be tax
deductible on your current year income. Any
costs over $10,000 may be amortized over 8
years and deducted as well. Check out the
following websites for detailed information:
www.timbertax.org or
www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/
loa/tax.shtml
19
Where can I get
technical help?
Advanced Tree Technology is experienced in all
facets of production and maintenance of black
walnut and black cherry trees. We plant, prune,
fertilize and perform weed control on
thousands of trees annually. If you need help,
give one of our experts a call. K Ag Labs is a
soil and plant test lab with many years of
experience in genetically superior trees. We
recommend you send them a soil sample to
determine if you need additional fertilizer for
your soil. Contact them at 920-426-2222.
www.Kaglab.com
A D VA N C E D T R E E T E C H N O L O G Y
Grafted, superior Black Cherry
at 27 months.
10
Is the genetically superior
walnut tree cultivar
really that much better than
common seedlings?
3
The forest geneticist who developed the
genetically superior trees estimates that only a
fraction of (1%) common black walnut
seedlings will have the same growth and form
characteristics as the genetically superior
trees. Even when given the best care, maybe
10% will produce
veneer-quality
A prime veneer
wood, but only
log
could well be
after a period of
worth $2,000 to
50-60 years or
$5,000 or more in
more. Results
30 years if past
from our planting
trends continue.
of superior
seedlings show
that at least 60% should make veneer grade
with proper care. Except for those damaged by
outside forces (lightning, wind, etc.), virtually
all of the grafted trees should be veneer grade
if given proper care.
4
How big are the genetically
superior black walnut trees
Sizes are listed on order form – sizes vary from
crop year to crop year.
Will the genetically superior
black walnut trees grow in
my area and survive?
5
The natural range of the eastern black walnut
tree (Juglans nigra) is from southern Ontario
to Texas and Alabama and from Nebraska to
the Atlantic Ocean. However, genetically
superior walnut trees have been planted in
Florida, New England, Michigan’s upper
peninsula, Idaho and even on the west coast.
We recommend plant hardiness zones 4B thru
8A for grafted walnut and 4A thru 8A for
seedling walnut.
6
What type of root system do
they have?
They have a deep tap root system.
A production field of genetically superior black walnut seedlings – dug dormant and barerooted November thru March.
8
A D VA N C E D T R E E T E C H N O L O G Y
Questions and Answers about Genetically
Superior Wild Black Cherry Trees (Prunus Serotina)
1
What are genetically superior
black cherry trees?
These trees are the result of selecting trees
that show superior form and growth rate,
and are less likely to possess gum defects.
Historically, the best black cherry originates in
Pennsylvania and New York. Our trees are from
these areas. Scion wood from these genetically
superior trees is grafted onto black cherry root
stock and then planted in research plots.
Superior cultivars are then selected.
What are the main
differences between the
improved seedlings and the
grafted trees?
2
The grafted trees are genetically identical clones
of the parent cultivars. The superior seedlings are
grown from the seeds of these trees. The
seedlings will vary somewhat from their parent
trees, but should still be genetically capable of
growing faster and straighter than common
black cherry seedlings.
Nine-year old black cherry tree.
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9
Questions and Answers About Genetically
Superior Black Walnut Trees (Juglans Nigra)
1
What are genetically
superior black walnut trees?
These trees are the result of decades
of research by a forest geneticist from
a leading midwestern university. Originally,
scion wood was collected from over 400 black
walnut trees throughout the Midwest that had
superior form. Through a selection process
using form and growth rate as criteria, the
geneticist determined the most superior trees.
Over the years, through genetic selection of
successive generations, trees with increased
growth rate, vigor and vitality have been
developed while maintaining superior form.
The two most famous cultivars patented by the
university are Purdue Number One and
Tippecanoe Number One.
What are the main
differences between the
improved seedlings and the
grafted trees?
2
The grafted trees are genetically identical
clones of the parent cultivars described above.
The superior seedlings are grown from the nuts
of these trees as well as the original Purdue
Number One cultivars. As such, the seedlings
will vary somewhat from their parent trees but
will still possess much better genetics than
common seedlings.
Twenty-one year old genetically superior walnut
growing in eastern Kansas.
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7
Are the genetically
superior black cherry trees
really that much better than
common seedlings?
3
Because desirable traits such as growth rate and
form are inheritable to some degree, selecting
trees that are
superior in this
After just 4 years
regard and then
of growth, some of
selecting trees by
our cherry trees are
the same criteria
3 1/2 inches in
from successive
diameter and 18ft.
generations
tall – double the
growth of standard
produces a tree
black cherry
that is superior
seedlings.
to common
seedlings. After
just four years of growth, some of our cherry
trees are 3 1/2 inches in diameter and 18 ft. tall
– double the growth of standard black cherry
seedlings.
Will the genetically superior
black cherry trees grow and
survive in my area?
4
Black cherry is native from northern Florida to
Minnesota and west to Texas, Oklahoma and the
Dakotas. It grows well in plant hardiness zones
3B thru 8 where there is fertile, well-drained soil
with adequate moisture. Our experience has
been that as long as soil, nutrient and water
requirements are met, these trees will do well in
a very large geographical area.
5
What are gum defects?
This is a common defect in cherry trees.
At this point, it is not known what causes the
defect. Research has shown possible causes are
boring insects, genetics and burning of pastures
and forests where cherry are growing. We are
closely following research by the U.S. Forest
Service and hope to have an answer in the
future. Our current selections are coming from
areas with a limited amount of gum defects and
from trees which show little, if any, gum defects.
These areas are also where the highest value
cherry trees in the nation have been harvested.
Should I consider wind
when selecting a site on
which to plant black cherry trees?
6
Yes. Black cherry has a shallow fibrous root
system and is somewhat brittle. Therefore, a
site that is protected from wind is desirable.
The protection could be in the form of an
overgrown fence row, a wooded area, or some
type of geographical configuration. If you do
not have any of these, a windbreak could be
planted relatively easily and economically.
We recommend windbreaks on all plantations,
if possible. We also believe interplanting with
poplars can provide excellent wind protection
and help to improve the form of the cherry trees.
Technicians grafting a few of the thousands of trees we
graft annually.
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What is the expected average
height and diameter of the
genetically superior black walnut
and black cherry trees?
12
At the present rate of growth, according to
periodic measurements, we estimate that in
30 years the
grafted trees
Advanced Tree
will reach 50
Technology has vast
to 90 ft. in
experience in the
production and
height and
maintenance of black
about 18 to 25
walnut and black
inches in
cherry trees.
diameter.
Genetically
superior black walnut and black cherry
seedlings should attain that size five to ten
years later.
Why do the genetically
superior trees cost more than
common seedlings?
13
The genetically superior black walnut and
black cherry trees are the culmination of
almost three decades of research and
development. Thousands of trees had to be
planted and genetically selected before the
product could be produced for retail purposes.
Collecting scion wood, grafting, and operating
greenhouses is very costly. The cost however, is
negligible compared to the likely payback.
Advanced Tree Technology has ongoing
research and progeny testing, and are also
planning more research and development
projects in the future. We are constantly
upgrading to the best reproduction methods
available. We also consult with the U.S. Forest
Service and various universities on tree
improvement programs.
14 What kind of return can
I expect when the trees
are harvested?
According to a major midwestern university,
black walnut prices have increased over 1,000
percent in the past 35 years. A prime veneer
log could be well worth $2,000 to $5,000 or
more in 30 to 35 years, if past trends continue.
Advanced Tree Technology
has ongoing research and
progeny testing.
One of our research plots with over 2,000 new trees being tested.
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5
New Item
(Populus canescans x
Genetically Superior Curly Poplar alba)
PP 17,525
Curly Poplar is a cross of Populus canescans with Populus alba. The
fast growing Curly Poplar produces an attractive highly-figured wood
grain that makes it valuable as veneer. This tree was discovered as a
naturally occurring mutated sprout of an un-named poplar tree that
grew in a cultivated area in Maryland. The original plant was
cultivated by Mr. Sam Grober in his yard in Evanston, Illinois, and
researched by Dr. Rick Meilan at Purdue University in West Lafayette,
Indiana. Curly Poplar trees have an upright trunk and a round crown.
They can reach 65 ft. tall at maturity with high, distinct branches.
Curly Poplar is patented by Purdue University and all propagation is
prohibited without express authorization from Purdue Research
Foundation. See the full story of Sam Grober and Figured Poplar
on our website at www.advancedtree.com
Curly Poplar at 1 year old –
planted in wet area.
Questions and Answers about Curly Poplar
1
How fast do they grow?
Incredibly fast with ample moisture
and weed control, 6 - 8 ft. the first year is
possible. Annual growth rates of 1 inch caliper
or more are expected, making harvest in 20
years or less possible. The mother tree at
Evanston, Illinois, was 23 inches in diameter
and 65 ft. tall at 24 years old.
2
What is the potential value
of Curly Poplar?
It has been estimated that Curly Poplar veneer
logs could be worth as much as Oak, Cherry or
Walnut because of the figured pattern in the
wood. Using recent prices, this gives a 24-inch
diameter log 16 ft. long a value range of $460
to $1,380 or more. The tree pictured on page
14 was 23 inches in diameter at 24 years old.
We believe with proper care and a little
fertilizer these Curly Poplar trees could grow
to this size in 20 years or less.
Curly Poplar at 4 years old.
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The original plant was cultivated
by Mr. Sam Grober in his yard in
Evanston, Illinois, 23-inches in
diameter at 24 years old. Above:
Natural color (unstained) veneer
cut from this original tree.
14
3
What plant spacing should be
used for Curly Poplar?
Current research shows a 15 x 20 ft. spacing
(140 trees per acre) should be a good spacing.
This is similar to the spacing used in walnut
and cherry plantings. You may also consider
using Curly Poplar as a windbreak for walnut
and cherry plantations. For windbreaks, space
trees 12-15 ft. apart in 1 or 2 rows around
your plantation. This could provide for a
valuable harvest 10 years or more ahead of
the walnut and cherry trees and provide wind
protection the first 15 years – when it is most
needed in these plantations.
4
What type of soil conditions
will Curly Poplar grow in?
Curly Poplar will grow in a wide range of soil
conditions, from moist soils that occasionally
flood to heavy clay soils with high water
tables. We have trees that are growing where
water was standing 6 inches deep for 2 - 3
weeks at a time around the trees.
5
Where will Curly Poplar
grow?
See page 2 for appropriate planting times.
They will grow in plant hardiness zones 4 - 7
with at least an average annual rainfall of 30
inches per year. Curly Poplar may grow in zone
8 and possibly 9 based on the natural range of
both parent
species.
Further
testing on
range
continues
at this
time.
Curly Poplar leaf formation.
Curly Poplar veneer shown in different stains.
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Front cover: 14 year-old
genetically superior black
walnut in Northern Ohio
Advanced Tree
Technology
888-749-0799
To purchase Black Walnut,
White Oak, Black Cherry
and Curly Poplar trees for
investment timber or if
you have a question not
addressed in this booklet,
please call:
Information on page 13
Curly Poplar
Above: Curly Poplar at 4 years old.
Above Left: Natural color (unstained) veneer.
New Investment Tree
D V A N C E D
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ACCREDITED
BUSINESS
260-749-0891 • Toll-free 888-749-0799
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12818 Edgerton Road, New Haven, IN 46774
TREE TECHNOLOGY
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