One of the treasures that came with this farm is the 174 year old Butternut Tree. The history indicates that George and Isabella brought many trees with them on their journey from Missouri, this being one of them. DNA testing shows this tree as the oldest living Butternut in America, maybe the world. It is a pure strain, unlike the hybrids found back East. Unfortunately, it sits right in the flight path of the Olympia Airport and was poorly pruned about 50 years ago. In spite of all this, the tree lives on and has produced many off-spring, two of which are on the farm and one small one recently moved to the Capital grounds as shown below.
In August 2015, we had a freak high wind storm. The tree was in full leaf and wet from heavy rains. Unfortunately, one of the main branches split from the trunk and came down. It is still connected to the trunk, but is weakened. Another higher branch on the same left side of the tree (based on the pictures above) also split, demonstrating more decay. So, in March 2016, we made the decision to have Ray Gleason severely prune the branches, leaving just enough to leaf and out and sustain the tree. It is a historical icon and we are dedicated to maintaining it as long as possible. The beauty and majesty of this tree still remains. We invite you to come see this historic tree while it still stands.
In addition to the Butternut tree, five apple trees and 1 pear tree remain and stories indicate they were moved from the original orchard. They still produce and make tasty pies, applesauce and cider.
In August 2015, we had a freak high wind storm. The tree was in full leaf and wet from heavy rains. Unfortunately, one of the main branches split from the trunk and came down. It is still connected to the trunk, but is weakened. Another higher branch on the same left side of the tree (based on the pictures above) also split, demonstrating more decay. So, in March 2016, we made the decision to have Ray Gleason severely prune the branches, leaving just enough to leaf and out and sustain the tree. It is a historical icon and we are dedicated to maintaining it as long as possible. The beauty and majesty of this tree still remains. We invite you to come see this historic tree while it still stands.
In addition to the Butternut tree, five apple trees and 1 pear tree remain and stories indicate they were moved from the original orchard. They still produce and make tasty pies, applesauce and cider.
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We are very fortunate to have folks in this community that cherish and care for trees. Ray Gleason has spent many hours working with the Butternut tree. We are very thankful for his knowledge and abilities.
Ray Gleason CTE: Cascade Tree Experts, LLC 360=701-8872 ____________________________ We are also very appreciative of Neal Wolbert and his company who come each spring to treat the butternut so it does not succumb to a leaf fungus. Wolbert's Inc. Olympia, WA 98516 360-491-7711 wolberts.com __________________________________ Another valuable resource is Michael Dolan. He propagates, grows and sells many of the native plants in our area. He is very familiar with the plants and history of this area. You can find his nursery information below and he also sells at the Olympia Farmers Market and loves to talk plants. He has successfully grown Bush Butternuts from seed and propagation. You can order them from his site below! Burnt Ridge Nursery Michael Dolan 432 Burnt Ridge Rd. Onalaska, WA 98570 360-985-2873 360-985-0882 web: www.burntridgenursery.com email:mail@burntridgenursery.com |
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