Preserving the Legacy: Tree Care at Ford House This Winter

At Ford House, we know how much our community values the lush, mature trees that make our grounds so special. These trees not only provide natural beauty but are integral to the historic landscape that Eleanor and Edsel Ford envisioned. To keep this vision alive, we continually monitor the health of our trees and take careful action when necessary.

This winter, we’ll focus on a significant tree care project as we remove several trees impacted by Dutch Elm disease. Dutch Elm is a fungal disease spread by beetles that has devastated elm populations across North America. Infected trees can quickly die off, posing risks to other trees and overall landscape health. With our own elms succumbing to this disease, we have decided to remove the affected trees to prevent further spread and ensure the safety of our grounds.

Timing is important in this process. To minimize soil compaction and disruption to the landscape, we’ll wait until the ground is frozen to begin tree removal. This thoughtful timing helps us protect the surrounding vegetation and maintain the integrity of the grounds. Frozen ground allows us to safely bring in the necessary equipment without causing undue stress on the landscape—a priority for our dedicated Landscape team.

The work doesn’t end with the removal of these trees. In alignment with our commitment to preservation and historical accuracy, we’re taking this opportunity to restore the landscape carefully. For each tree removed, we’ll be planting a new tree in its place, selected specifically to reflect the types of trees that would have originally been on the property. This restoration includes species such as American elms and other varieties historically found at Ford House. We’re not simply planting new trees—we’re restoring the natural beauty that the Fords originally enjoyed, recreating an authentic look and feel for future generations.

This project reflects Ford House’s broader mission of preserving our historic buildings and gardens and the landscape itself. These trees are part of Ford House’s legacy and, like all elements of our historic site, require thoughtful care. By taking proactive measures, we ensure that our landscape remains vibrant, safe, and historically accurate.

We understand that tree removal can be concerning, and we want to be fully transparent with our community. Our goal is to create as little disruption as possible while protecting the health and beauty of our grounds. This work is necessary, but it’s also a vital opportunity to bring renewed life to the estate’s landscape by planting young trees that will flourish for years to come.

When you visit Ford House this winter or in the coming spring, you may notice the new plantings beginning to take root. Over time, these trees will grow to create a lush, thriving canopy that respects the estate’s history while contributing to its future. We appreciate your understanding and support in this important work, as together, we continue to honor the beauty and legacy of Ford House.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Every step we take helps to preserve Ford House’s story and its connection to the natural world, ensuring that its beauty endures for generations to come. 🌿