Frontier Extension: Proper care for young trees leads to lifelong good health

Workshop equips attendees with tree care tools, planting skills

LYNDON, Kan. – Frontier Extension District will host a meeting focused on proper young tree care, including live demonstrations of tree planting and pruning techniques. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Lyndon City Hall, 730 Topeka Ave., Lyndon, Kan., for planting and pruning demonstrations, and then move to Lyndon Community Center, 205 W. 10th St., Lyndon, for a presentation by the foresters, and snacks.

Lauren Gammill, Horticulture and Natural Resources Agent for Frontier Extension District, is partnering with the Kansas Forest Service to present this informative workshop aimed at reducing young tree mortality throughout the district. The workshop will feature Kansas Forest Service community foresters Kody Kraemer and Blaine Stroble.

Kraemer, KFS Southeast Area Forester, is a board-certified arborist through the Kansas Arborist Association and the International Society of Arboriculture. He is passionate about helping communities improve and maintain healthy tree canopies.

Stroble, KFS Northeast Area Forester, assists with local Tree City USA program development and provides technical training to tree boards, city officials, and interested individuals in managing and caring for public tree resources. Both speakers will share their expertise and help plant a new tree in Lyndon.

Research from the International Society of Arboriculture on urban tree plantings shows that most tree mortality occurs within the first five years after planting. While there are many potential causes of tree loss, including disease, pests, weather and environmental stress, properly planted and well-established trees have a significantly greater chance of survival.

Lifelong tree health is often determined by proper planting and early care. The goal of the young tree care program is to equip attendees with the skills needed to plant new trees, prune young trees correctly, and provide long-term care.

This workshop is designed for homeowners, landowners, city or landscape employees, and anyone who simply loves trees. Join in to learn from knowledgeable professionals and take part in this fun pre–Arbor Day celebration.

For more information, contact Gammill at the Frontier Extension District office in Ottawa at 785-229-3520.