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Discover how large trees are cared for and protected

VPM | By Bryant Dameron

Published March 28, 2025 at 11:09 AM EDT

Large trees growing in swamp — This large bald cypress tree growing in the Dragon Run is estimated to be over 1,200 years old. It's remote location in the swamp prevented loggers from cutting it down.

Peggy Singlemann visits Maymont in Richmond to talk with Sean Proietti, Senior Manager of Horticulture & Grounds about the park’s collection of state and national champion trees and learn about the care that large trees need.

Shana Williams tours the Dragon Run in Middlesex and King & Queen counties to view bald cypress trees and discuss the importance of old growth forests with Friends of Dragon Run.

Serome Hamlin shares plant recommendations for gardening in the understory and Dr. Robyn Puffenbarger explains why bare root tree seedlings are a great planting option.

In the studio Dr. Glynn Percival shares new research from Bartlett Tree Experts that has found penicillin in large trees and Greta Hoyt from Manchester Gardening explains how to identify vines that commonly climb trees.

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