Tree Trays Cut Costs, Speed Growth

Tree Trays Cut Costs Speed Growth MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Tray-Tech plant trays can speed growth of young trees by 20 to 30 percent Hillel Goren Goren Trade Inc says the plastic trays can also cut irrigation costs by 50 percent and reduce fertilizer needs as well “The main benefit is growth acceleration ” says Goren “They surround the young trunk to catch moisture and create greenhouse conditions for the root system The tray covers the ground seals it from all sides and protects the roots from extreme temperatures ” The Tray-Tech plant trays were developed in Israel birthplace of many of the water-saving technologies used in agriculture around the world “Christmas tree growers really benefit from the trays ” says Goren North American distributor for Tray-Tech “They can cut the normal 7 to 10-year time it takes to grow a Christmas tree by at least 2 to 3 years ” Goren says the trays can also reduce loss of young seedlings He points to use of the trays on small pine trees planted in an arid mountainous area in Israel Seedling loss went from 36 percent to zero The 2 by 2 1/2-ft plastic trays fit around the seedling stem Edges seal tight to the ground shading out competitive grass and weed growth The slope of the tray directs rainfall irrigation water and even dew directly to the stem base and developing roots The same slope on the underside gathers condensation and carries it to the stem Goren says the insulating effect of the plastic tray reduces plant shut down from heat and extends the growing season in cold areas It also reduces potential for mid-winter thaw and refreeze damage Reflection of light from the trays back to the seedling is another reason for accelerated growth It supports increased photosynthesis While the tray was developed for use in arid areas Goren suggests that the water concentrating effect of its shape is beneficial in higher rainfall areas as well “You don’t have the savings from reduced irrigation but growth acceleration is maintained as more nutrients are available With fruit trees you get higher quality fruit ” he says Currently the trays sell for $4 to $5 each depending on quantity ordered Goren says the trays have a life expectancy of at least 10 years but could last 15 to 20 if not abused Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Goren Trade Inc 383 Oak Ave River Edge N J 07661 ph 201 225-9297; cell ph 551 404- 8521; hillel@gorentradeinc com; www gorentradeinc com

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