Taishan's ancient trees remain firmly rooted

Old trees, new life

"When a tree declines, its roots fail first," said Ma Shengping, who has worked in the committee since 1985 after graduating from Shandong Agricultural University's pomology program, which focuses on the study and cultivation of fruit-bearing plants.

In 2012, they noticed the leaves of a 300-year-old ginkgo tree at the Dai Temple were turning a sickly yellow-gray months before autumn, not the usual vibrant gold of seasonal change.

"After fact-finding and research work, we found the root system was collapsing like a failing heart," said Ma.

In April 2013, they planted 21 four-year-old ginkgo saplings around the ailing tree. Then, using precision grafting techniques, they connected the saplings to the ancient trunk.

"It's like attaching life support," said Ma, who added that the young trees became auxiliary roots, pumping nutrients to their elderly host.

By that September, new emerald leaves had replaced the withering foliage.

Using this method, they have since saved two other ancient ginkgos.

"Initially, nobody dared try this on heritage trees," said Ma. "But when you see leaves returning to health, you know it's worth the risk."