Innisfil's best kept secret is a green oasis of trees located at the 20th Sideroad and Shore Acres Drive.

The South Innisfil Arboretum sits on approximately 10-acres of land and has been open to the public since 1994 for tranquil enjoyment, or to sponsor a tree for an event or a loved one.

Recently Kevin Mengers, a certified arborist, took interested members of the community on a journey of discovery in the arboretum, discussing tree care and how to prune. He began with a demonstration of the tools used for pruning at a comfort level, up to tree top cutting and the specific purpose each tool serves. The removal of dead and crossing branches is foremost when pruning shrubs or trees and the pruning out of diseased wood necessitates the disinfecting of equipment with a bleach and water solution or a spritz of Lysol from a can. Other reasons to prune include rejuvenation, size maintenance and esthetics. At the arboretum and on larger properties where a riding lawn mower is used, it is prudent to be able to cut as closely around the trees as possible. This makes some esthetic limbing-up and shortening of longer branches occasionally needed.

Photo by Judith Rogers Arborist Kevin Mengers. An important piece of wisdom passed on is the fact that trees will seal a wound, not heal it. Proper methods for pruning are therefore essential so that the branch collar or swelling of the branch near the trunk is not cut into. Large branches require a three-cut system so that the branch doesn't break and tear away from the trunk, resulting in drastic damage.

The role of the leader of a deciduous tree (the branch that grows vertically to form the trunk) is instrumental in forming a sturdy specimen. When lateral branches become nearly as big around as the trunk, they compete for dominance and may have to be removed. Branches that compete against the trunk for dominance can also influence the flow of sap, resulting in possible dieback within the centre of the tree. This would determine their removal.

Gypsy moth and tent caterpillars, cankers, black knot and scale were observed on several trees with discussion on annual remedies.

Butternut trees are on the concerned, and in some areas, endangered species list. Two at the arboretum are being maintained with TLC, to ensure their longevity as the butternut canker disease is an issue with these trees.

Most homeowners can be confident in doing basic pruning of their trees and shrubs, but when it comes to tricky parts or areas higher than a ladder allows, it would be wise to call in an arborist.

Besides the perennial flower beds, the arboretum has a great ornamental grass display. Last fall, the corner bed by the crossroads of the 20th and Shore Acres was renovated to be a water wise garden that includes blue oat grass, lavender, daylilies, 'Old Gold' junipers and 'Karl Foerster' feather reed grass.

A totem pole, gazebo, benches in the meadow, picnic tables and the relaxing atmosphere at the arboretum makes it a great place for weddings, picnics and family gatherings. Maintained by the Gilford and District Horticultural Society, it is also the home of the annual huge yard and society plant sale. For further information or to book for an event, contact president Mona Rea at 456-0132.