Exlterra’s Nutrient Enrichment Passive System (NEPS) has proven itself as a revolutionary solution for revitalizing struggling trees in urban environments, which present unique challenges for tree health, including compacted soils, limited nutrient availability, and harsh weather conditions. Across diverse locations, NEPS has consistently delivered measurable improvements in tree vitality. This is how NEPS addresses these challenges, improves tree health, and reduces maintenance demands while promoting sustainable urban forestry.
How NEPS works to support urban forestry
NEPS introduces a sustainable, passive method for improving soil health and nutrient delivery. By creating an underground network, it enhances trees’ access to essential nutrients and optimizes water use without relying on chemicals or mechanical systems.
Case studies: Proven success across environments
1. New Life Presbyterian Church, California
Problem: Decorative trees in the parking lot median suffered from decay, insect infestations, and poor canopy development despite using drip irrigation.
Solution: NEPS units were installed around 15 Brisbane Boxwood and Pink Trumpet trees in February 2018.
Results:
By 20 months, Brisbane Box trees grew from 10 to 15 feet, and Pink Trumpet trees grew from 7 to 10 feet.
Dense, vibrant canopies emerged, eliminating the need for fertilizers or pesticides.
Maintenance costs decreased as the trees thrived using the existing irrigation system.
2. City of Pleasant Ridge, Michigan
Problem: Newly planted urban trees struggled, and landmark trees exhibited signs of stress and decline.
Solution: NEPS was installed around the struggling young and older trees.
Results:
Young trees showed immediate growth and resilience during dry, hot periods.
Landmark trees displayed signs of recovery, with fuller canopies and improved health.
Trees with NEPS required significantly less supplemental watering than untreated trees.
The city plans to continue NEPS installations for newly planted trees in future projects.
Key benefits of NEPS
Improved tree growth and vitality: NEPS enhances nutrient uptake and promotes healthier, more resilient trees.
Reduced water use: Treated trees thrive with less supplemental watering, contributing to water conservation efforts.
Cost-effective maintenance: Eliminating the need for fertilizers and pesticides lowers costs for municipalities and property owners.
Environmental sustainability: NEPS supports urban forestry without chemical inputs, aligning with long-term environmental goals.
What clients say
James Breuckman, City Manager of Pleasant Ridge, highlighted NEPS's transformative impact:
“The young trees with the NEPS are fuller, growing faster, and much more resilient during dry and hot periods. They require much less supplemental watering than trees that do not have NEPS installed around them. Our continued partnership with Exlterra and use of their NEPS is the highest endorsement I can provide for the firm and their product.”
Looking ahead: Scaling urban forestry solutions
Exlterra NEPS's success in diverse settings demonstrates its potential for broader applications in urban forestry and landscaping. As municipalities and organizations seek sustainable methods to address environmental challenges, NEPS offers a proven, scalable solution for revitalizing urban green spaces and enhancing their longevity.
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