Grounds crew completes planting of new trees on campus

It’s easy sometimes to overlook the efforts of the Facilities Management grounds crew, but a recent project at Purdue University Fort Wayne is leaving fresh evidence all over campus.

The team recently finished planting more than 45 new trees. The project started before Arbor Day, which is observed annually on the last Friday of April. The trees might be more noticeable this year because some feature green plastic bags around their base. There are more than 100 examples of this practice that helps trees with limited access to irrigation, according to Tad Smith, director of grounds operation.

These slow-release units wrap around the base and are then filled, allowing water to drip through pinholes at the bottom to provide slow, steady moisture to the tree’s root ball. Holding about 23 gallons, each can empty over five to 24 hours. Depending on how much rain the campus receives, the bags can be filled about once a week and are typically used for one to two growing seasons.

”They are useful indirect watering devices, specifically for transplanted trees,” said Jordan Marshall, professor and plant biologist in the Department of Biological Sciences. “Usually, the Treegator or other watering bags can release water slower, infiltrate the root zone deeper, and reduce surface runoff compared to direct watering.”

There are 18 varieties of trees included in this year’s crop—most native to Indiana—raising to more than 100 the number of native tree species on campus. Many help shade the Native Trees of Indiana River Walk along the St. Joe River. There’s a helpful map to highlight what’s what. In all, there are more than 15,000 trees throughout the 600-acre campus.

Since 2020, PFW has been honored by Tree Campus USA from the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to effective urban forest management. The program recognizes colleges and universities for successful campus forest management and for engaging students and staff in conservation goals. Purdue Fort Wayne joins more than 410 campuses across the country with this distinction.