University groundskeeper Consolloy has a tale for every tree

Ask Jim Consolloy about any plant on campus. The University grounds manager since 1989, he knows the stories behind virtually every tree and shrub.

He is charged with envisioning and executing beautiful landscapes — and making sure they are protected.

He said proudly that he has bought every tree since he became grounds manager.

"It's a living campus. We try to keep it that way," Consolloy said, "There should be a view from every window."

"Many times people ask me just how many kinds of trees are on campus. We're now well up over 400 species."

Consolloy said he always feels bad when any of Princeton's old trees has to be removed but enjoys the process of planting new trees to rejuvenate a certain part of the campus.

"It's been a real challenge to keep the tree population growing," Consolloy added, comparing his job to that of a doctor. "It's like having a patient — you need to keep checking up on them."

He noted that Princeton elms are still being planted around the campus, such as the one planted several years ago outside the cathedral.

Consolloy added that simply planting trees is not enough. Location must also be considered. "What's the best tree for this spot? You're always thinking that," he said.

Consolloy was in the nursery business for twenty years before taking on his current University position. From the Princeton area, he worked in landscaping on campus while working in local nurseries in high school and college.

Consolloy enumerated the many factors that must be considered in landscaping.

"You have to look at trees as complements to buildings," he said, explaining that often the function of trees is to soften the architecture.

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While it wouldn't be desirable to hide the graceful architecture of the Gothic dorms, such as Holder Hall, in the case of more modern buildings, some degree of concealment may be beneficial, Consolloy said, pointing to Scully as an example.

Other duties of campus trees are to provide shade and allow students "to feel a part of nature," Consolloy said.

He added that, when choosing plants, he considers what time of year they bloom and their colors and textures. He tries to make sure that the time of year when the trees look their best corresponds to the months of the year when students are around campus.

He is also conscious of, and seeks to avoid, trees that might set off allergies in courtyards around students' living quarters.

Places like Holder courtyard are difficult to maintain because of the amount of wear they get from people use for walking, playing, and just sitting outside.

However, to Consolloy it is more than worth the effort required for upkeep. He gestured towards students sitting under a tree in the courtyard. "This is the way it should be," he said.