Ranch to get Arboretum

A public arboretum is coming to Rancho Santa Fe.

At the request of the Forest Health Task Force’s efforts to plant more trees in the Covenant, the Rancho Santa Fe Association Board of Directors approved a $10,000 arboretum to display different kinds of trees people can plant.

The tree demonstration will be planted on 1,000 feet along San Elijo near the intersection of La Fortuna. The area stretches between the 14th hole tee box and the 15th green of the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Course.

“Having those trees there might help some of my drives,” joked Director Tom Lang.

Because the recent attack of red gum lerp psyllids prompted the removal of many dead or dying trees, many residents are faced with replanting. The arboretum will help people see characteristics of the 60 varieties of trees on the task force’s suggested tree list, Covenant Administrator Ivan Holler said.

Association Manager Pete Smith selected the area for its accessibility. The trail runs right though it and trees will be planted on both sides for people to view.

The area’s proximity to the golf course also provides an available water supply.

The Forest Health Task Force’s list of trees includes a variety of trees from ornamental trees like olive trees to tall, canopy trees like Mimosas.

Recently added were different types of eucalyptus that are not as susceptible to the lerp psyllid. The list covers types from 35- to 60-foot tall silver dollar gum eucalyptus to the 70- to 90-foot lemon-scented gum eucalyptus.

All trees should be planted 30 feet from structures for fire safety, the task force said.

Association Director Bill Beckman said they have another opportunity to plant demonstration trees on the Osuna property, perhaps even creating a tree nursery.

“The land is under utilized in some ways and this gives members another reason to go there,” Beckman said.

To view the tree list, visit rsfforesthealth.org.