Genetically Superior Timber
Frequently Asked Questions
One of our new research plots with over 2,000 new trees being planted.
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.
2. Are they just as hardy as other walnut and black cherry trees?
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?
Caring for trees is an easy way to protect your investment. We recommend the use
of tree shelters to protect the trees and enhance growth.
4. At what age will the trees reach maturity?
Under ideal conditions, genetically superior black walnut and black cherry tree
grafts can be harvested as early as just 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.
5. When is the best time to plant?
For foliated grafted trees, spring planting is best. That ranges from late April
in the south to June in the north. Plant dormant trees about a month earlier in
those areas. In the south, fall planting is acceptable and often preferred where
winters are mild.
6. When can I plant ... how soon after I receive my trees?
You can and should plant immediately upon receiving your trees.
7. How far apart should they be planted?
The old strategy was to overplant and then thin out the inferior trees. With
the genetically superior black walnut and black cherry trees, this is unnecessary.
Also, planting fewer trees allows you to interplant with other crops. We recommend
planting no closer than 20’ by 15’ for the grafts and 15’ by 15’ for the seedlings.
8. Is there any guarantee? What if the trees die?
If you pick up your foliated grafted trees, you’ll be able to examine them on the
spot. That’s the best way to be sure that you’re getting healthy trees. Nonetheless,
any that die in the first year will be replaced at cost, about half the retail price.
Dormant trees that don’t leaf out the first growing season will be replaced free
of charge, (except for shipping charges).
9. How are the trees shipped?
Grafts are foliated and in pots. Most growers pick up their trees in New Haven,
IN. However, we can arrange shipping by truck freight lines. Seedlings can be shipped
dormant, bareroot.
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. What are tree shelters?
Tree shelters are the ideal way to protect your trees and, at the same time,
speed growth. 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. When contact herbicides are sprayed
around young trees, the shelters protect the lower leaves from any contact with
the herbicide.
12. What is the expected average height and diameter of the genetically superior
black walnut and black cherry trees?
At the present rate of growth, according to periodic measurements, we estimate
that in 30 years the graft will reach 50 to 90 feet in height and about 18 to 25
inches in diameter. Genetically superior black walnut and black cherry seedlings
should attain that size five to ten years later.
13. Why do the genetically superior trees cost more than common seedlings?
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 are very costly.
The cost however, is negligible compared to the likely payback. Advanced Tree Technology
has ongoing research and progeny testing and are 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 well be worth
$2,000 to $5,000 or more in 30 to 35 years if past trends continue.
15. 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.
16. What are the best soil types for the genetically superior black walnut and black
cherry trees?
There are hundreds of soil types in which these trees will grow well. Generally,
any well-drained, rich soil will suffice. Check the soil map for your area.
If you send us the soil book for your county and the soil map of your site, we will
give you recommendations based on our experience. There is no charge for this service.
17. “Proper care” has been mentioned several times. What is proper care?
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 and
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 ASCS office
for more information. Also, ask your accountant or us for tax tips. You may be eligible
for a 10% tax credit and have your plantation tax deductible as well.
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. A soil and plant test lab with years of experience with these genetically
superior trees is also available. Call us and we will put you in contact with this
lab. They are the experts on fertility of these trees. A soil survey of your county
is available from the Farmer Service Administration (FSA), department of the federal
government. This is a valuable tool in analyzing your site. Have your soil survey
sent to us and we will help you determine suitability of your site, prior to planting.