Steep Slope Tree Planters

Function

The steep slope tree planter plants seedlings in difficult terrain that cannot be traversed by other types of planting equipment. The actual planting site must be within reach of a crane.

Description

The steep slope tree planter consists of a heavy frame suspended by cables from a crane. The two planting mechanisms at each end of the frame operate simultaneously. Each planter has a retractable auger, a carousel that holds the prepared seedlings, a telescoping seedling placement tube, and a packing spade. All components are operated hydraulically. The crane operator controls the automatic planting sequence. Some crane booms can reach over 100 feet (30 meters). Each carousel contains 12 seedlings.

Operation

The crane operator positions the steep slope tree planter and starts the planting cycle. The augers pierce the soil and retract. If one auger meets an obstacle, the crane operator can disengage that planting mechanism and allow the other to continue. The carousel rotates to place a seedling over the telescoping tubes, jets of water eject each seedling, and the tubes return to their retracted positions. The steep slope planter can be used to plant about 120 seedlings per hour.

Advantages

The steep slope tree planter plants large container seedlings on 60 to 100 percent slopes. It is designed for revegetating disturbed or denuded slopes. A small depression at the base of the seedling collects water, increasing the likelihood that the seedling will survive.

Disadvantages

The steep slope tree planter must be operated with a crane, restricting the number of sites where it can be used. Complete site preparation is necessary for efficient planting. If the planter is not lowered gently, the planting mechanism can be damaged.