News

A small investment in a tree's beginning life stages can save property owners money in
the future.

Rick Clark, founder of Signature Landscapes of Reno, told Institute of Real Estate
Management luncheon attendees Thursday that spending money nurturing a young tree
will prevent future problems - and be more cost effective.

A 25-year-old tree, for example, could add $6,000 to $7,000 to a property's value, he said.

"The real critical stage is the initial two to three years of a tree's life," Clark said. "After
that, a tree doesn't need as much care. A mature tree could be worth thousands of dollars
to a property."

Clark's knowledge of trees comes from 30 years of landscaping experience, including
being former chairman for the Reno Urban Forestry Commission.

He showed attendees slides of various tree problems and explained how to remedy them.

The landscape expert said most tree deaths stem from damage to the cambium tissue,
which sends nutrients between the roots and leaves.

Cambium tissue is the layer beneath the bark and often is damaged when mowing
machines carelessly hit a tree's base.

"Damaged cambium tissue will grow back, but only once you stop banging on it and give
the tree an opportunity to heal," Clark said.

Mark Glenn, owner of Industrial Properties of Nevada in Reno, said that having proper
landscape, including healthy trees, is important for a buyer's first impression.

"Trees certainly enhance the value of a property," Glenn said. "Trees give people the
feeling of home."