I have never come across a black locust in my area before so I'm not 100% sure that this is what I am dealing with. Sorry the picture of the thorns is blurry; I can get another one later. A friend has this tree that has been pretty much killed off by the gypsy moth caterpillars. It was healthy last year but now has maybe 2% growth showing (this is after 2 years of heavy defoliation). He was willing to give me the tree (I'll take it down and process everything) but I will reciprocate by bringing the tractor over and doing some grading in his (dirt) parking lot. Seems like a fair trade to me. Just trying to confirm that it is black locust (if it is, it's the only one I have ever seen around here). Another question: has anyone had luck growing anything from a BL cutoff shoot? There are only a couple branches that have any growth, but I was thinking it can't hurt to try and use the shoots for a transplant (I can also try to get a root cutting once the tree is down).
Definitely black locust. No experience here growing one from cuttings, but I have 3 planted along my property line that I grew from seeds. I see the seed pods are still hanging from that particular tree so I wouldn’t hesitate to collect a few and extract the seeds. Scarifying them or tossing them in almost boiling water and letting them cool overnight will break the coating and they should sprout readily for you.
Good to know info about the seeds. I have a lot of trees to take down on my property due to the caterpillar defoliation and would like to try to grow some BL. Edit. I was not aware that black and honey locust are invasive species (have never come across either up here). Need to go back and take another look at the leaves (still leaning towards BL) however regardless, I won't be planting any. We have enough trouble with invasive species around here.
Great BTUs Not trying to step on your friendship BUT I give you a dead tree in my yard and you pay me for it by grading my driveway… seems like 1 person getting 2 jobs done free other gets work.. I would do it for a friend but they would owe me a favor in future.. depending on their situation neighbors I gig similar bring great Christmas cookies
They've helped me out in other ways in the past. Plus, they own a restaurant and I'm sure there will be comped meals in the future.
That was my thought exactly. There's a big pile of BL clean up wood by tracks here in town but impossible for me to get to. BL will grow in poor soil as its nitrogen fixing. I think the clearing on tracks give it ample sunlight. They die off with too much shade.
It is BL. Wasnt 100% until i saw the thorns. Just like rose thorns IME, Congrats on your first score of it and be sure to post pics. Fair trade IMO. Grading for firewood.
Quick google search says its native to Appalachian range. At least it’s American invasive. A fast growing hardwood that is great firewood and could be used as an alternative to exotic hardwoods for decking/lumber sounds like a great invasive to me!
Yeah, I was trying to be careful when taking the pictures so Brad couldn't figure out where the tree was. Wouldn't be surprised if I drive by tomorrow and there's just a stump with graffiti that says "Brad was here!".
Nice rare find up here EODMSgt Will certainly be nice during a -30° night! I'm pretty sure I know where that is too!
LOL!!! I was gonna ask Dave Sirchopsalot to stop and grab it for me if he's in the area. He drives a train for work.
