Two specimen Japanese dissectum maples at Oatlands stand guard side by side next to the newly renovated greenhouse. They have grown there for over 100 years. Over the years, local tree and garden professionals have volunteered long hours to prune and preserve these trees. Certified Arborists Peter Deahl of The Pruning School and Scott Johnston of Johnston Tree Care recently spent over 15 man-hours pruning dead wood and giving character to these beloved trees. Additional time was given by Jackie Ellis, professional gardener, and also Bonnie Deahl, Certified Arborist with The Care of Trees, to open them up and lend a helping hand.

Japanese dissectum (cutleaf) maples are considered to be specimen trees and have a high value in the world of trees. They are slow-growing trees that often find places in urban landscapes. Left untouched, these trees develop a dense canopy that gives the appearance of a billowy cloud or a waterfall. When they are skillfully pruned to gently open up windows into the heart of the tree, one can see and appreciate the ethereal beauty that only nature can produce.

Both Peter and Scott talk about how tree professionals were able to enhance the beauty of these maples. The dense growth prevented the beauty of the trees' inner framework from shining through. It is hard to believe that there may have once been discussion to move or even remove these trees. Peter, co-founder of The Pruning School, has taught several classes on how to prune Japanese maples in particular. "Once you prune little windows into these trees, you can begin to see the trunk and intricate branching structure that is so characteristic of Japanese maples. Maples have a characteristic pattern of growth that must be thinned out for the health of the trees."

When trees age, they take on a character all their own. Except for removing deadwood, light thinning is usually all that is necessary. A thin layer of mulch, preferably wood chips placed out beyond the drip line, is also needed to showcase these trees.

The recent renovation of the greenhouse at Oatlands was done using wood from trees at Oatlands lost in past storms. The wood was milled into hardwood flooring and was used as the base of the front of the greenhouse. Says Oatlands Director David Boyce, "The goal of the restoration is to once again return the greenhouse to working condition, which will make it the oldest working greenhouse in this country!"

The twin maples that have endured many years unmarred by the passage of time add to its legacy.

If you have not visited Oatlands, take some time to tour the mansion, and walk through the extensive gardens. Among the other trees of note besides the two maples are two large Blue Atlas Cedars, perhaps the largest Gingko in the state (near the greenhouse), a Golden Larch tree, and a towering English Oak, to name a few…did I mention the boxwoods too?

By giving their time to preserve these trees, the tree-care professionals have a common goal of doing what they truly love. The best thing is that their effort is a labor of love to preserve these living legacies. They all consider the giving of their time as well worth the spirit of the project. There are some places we go that have a life all their own. I would do anything to drop what I am doing no matter what and be a part of it.