Marina Strawberry Tree Standard

Arbutus 'Marina', also known as the Marina Strawberry Tree, is a beautiful, evergreen tree known for its reddish-brown bark, glossy green leaves, and clusters of pinkish-white flowers followed by red, strawberry-like fruits. Here’s how to plant and care for this versatile and striking tree:

Planting Guide:

Location:

• Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Arbutus 'Marina' thrives in bright light but can tolerate some shade.
• Ensure there’s enough space for the tree to grow to its mature size, which can reach 30-50 feet in height and 20-40 feet in width.
• Good air circulation is beneficial for the plant’s health, especially in humid climates.

Soil:

• Prefers well-drained, loamy, or sandy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does not do well in heavy, waterlogged soils.
• Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, but it can handle slightly alkaline conditions.
• If planting in clay-heavy soil, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage.

Planting Steps:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
4. Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
5. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to retain moisture and control weeds.

Care Guide:

Watering:

• Water regularly during the first year to help establish a deep, extensive root system.
• Once established, Arbutus 'Marina' is drought-tolerant, but occasional deep watering during hot, dry periods will help keep it healthy and looking its best.
• Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing:

• Arbutus 'Marina' generally does not need heavy fertilization.
• A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can encourage growth, especially if the soil is poor.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote too much foliage at the expense of flowering.

Pruning:

• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
• Arbutus 'Marina' has a naturally graceful form and usually requires only light pruning to maintain its shape.
• Regularly remove any suckers (shoots that grow from the base) to keep the tree looking neat.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Generally resistant to pests, but watch for issues such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and aphids. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the leaves when watering to prevent fungal issues.
• Occasionally inspect the tree for signs of stress or pest activity, and treat promptly if necessary.

Mulching:

• Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and other issues.

When planting Arbutus 'Marina' in its standard tree form, proper spacing is essential to ensure healthy growth and a well-structured appearance. Here is the recommended spacing:

Spacing Recommendations:

• Spacing Distance: Space trees 10 to 15 feet apart.
  • This allows each tree enough room to grow to its mature size, with a full, rounded canopy without competing for resources.
  • Proper spacing also ensures good air circulation, which helps prevent disease and promotes healthy foliage.