At Restore Native, we always emphasize the importance of releasing—removing grass and weeds that compete with young native trees for space and nutrients. But sometimes, despite all the best planning, a tree can still end up swamped by weeds. In this blog, we’ll explain how to properly perform a manual release and why it’s so important to catch the grass before it overtakes your trees.
What is Manual Release?
Manual release, or hand releasing, is the process of carefully clearing away the grass and weeds by hand around the base of a tree. While releasing by spray is the preferred method, sometimes it’s not possible, especially when the weeds have already started to overtake the plant.
Why is Manual Release Needed?
In an ideal world, trees would be pre-sprayed before planting to minimize competition from grass and weeds. But if the area hasn’t been pre-sprayed, or if weeds have sprung up quickly, it’s important to act quickly. Without intervention, the grass would choke the tree, stealing vital sunlight and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Manual Release
Assess the Situation: Check if the tree has already been overtaken by weeds. If it’s still possible to access the tree, it’s time to begin the manual release.
Remove Grass and Weeds: Carefully peel away the grass and weeds around the tree. Be sure to keep the root system undisturbed as you work.
Trample Down Remaining Weeds: Once you’ve cleared the area around the tree, stomp down any remaining weeds to keep them from growing back immediately.
Follow Up with Spray: After clearing the area, we recommend using a knapsack sprayer to apply a release spray to the remaining weeds. This ensures that they won’t regrow and continue to compete with the tree.
Watch the Tree Thrive: With the grass removed, the tree now has space to grow and will continue to thrive as it matures.
Why Timing is Crucial
Manual releasing is a time-sensitive job. The earlier you catch the problem, the better the results. The best time to perform a manual release is before the weeds completely cover the tree. Once the tree is smothered, it becomes much harder to clear the area effectively without damaging the tree.
At Restore Native, we understand how important it is to protect your native trees from invasive grasses. If your plants need maintenance or you’d like help with releasing, get in touch with us. We’re always ready to help ensure your trees thrive for years to come.
