A reader asks: I’ve noticed a rather large mulched patch within the common grassy area on the southeast corner of Countryview Blvd and Muir Drive. It seems out of place. Is there some problem with the soil that prevents grass from growing there? There must be a reason for it. Can you explain?
Answer: The area referred to can be identified by the “drip lines” of several Bur Oak trees (sometimes spelled Burr) that make their homes there. Bur Oaks are known for extensive root systems. These systems consist of a deep tap root and extensive wide-spreading shallow roots, often as shallow as only three feet. The mulched area was created by our landscaping crews to protect these magnificent trees and their roots from damage due to the weight of lawn mowing equipment and the possible damage to the trunks and bark from collisions with that equipment.
If you look you can spot Bur Oaks throughout Sun City. Several line the western edge of Countryview, creating an eerie silhouette in colder months when the branches are barren of their leaves.
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