In the lush landscapes of our neighborhoods, trees stand as silent guardians, offering shade, beauty, and a breath of fresh air. Yet, like any living thing, trees require care and attention to thrive. At Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation, we understand the importance of proper tree care, which is why we’re here to share some essential tips to help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of tree care.
THE DO’S OF TREE CARE
1. Do Prune Regularly
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and structure of your trees. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote new growth and prevent potential hazards.
2. Do Water Appropriately
Adequate watering is crucial, especially during dry spells or drought conditions. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and resilience.
3. Do Mulch
Mulching around the base of your trees helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, but avoid piling it against the trunk.
4. Do Inspect Regularly
Keep an eye on your trees for signs of stress, disease, or pest infestation. Early detection can prevent problems from escalating and help you take appropriate action.
5. Do Hire Professionals
For complex tasks such as tree removal, large-scale pruning, or pest management, it’s best to enlist the help of certified arborists. Their expertise ensures the safety and health of your trees.
THE DON’TS OF TREE CARE
1. Don’t Over-prune
While pruning is essential, over-pruning can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease and stress. As a general rule of thumb, you want to avoid removing more than 25% of the tree’s canopy in a single pruning session. Depending on the species, health, and type of pruning this percentage can vary greatly. On younger trees, you can often remove more of the canopy without damaging the tree, but on older trees less is better, and you want to stick to removing no more than 10%. Less pruning is less stress.
2. Don’t Neglect Watering
Under-watering can lead to drought stress and decline, while over-watering can suffocate the roots and promote fungal growth. Find the right balance by watering deeply and monitoring soil moisture.
3. Don’t Ignore Signs of Trouble
Ignoring warning signs such as yellowing leaves, unusual growth patterns, or pest activity can lead to irreversible damage. Address issues promptly to keep your trees healthy and vibrant.
4. Don’t Damage the Roots
Avoid compacting the soil or damaging the roots with heavy machinery or construction activities. Protect the root zone and provide adequate space for root expansion.
5. Don’t Use Harmful Chemicals
There are plenty of chemicals that are beneficial for the longevity of your trees, but there are also many herbicides that can be very harmful. It is important to reach out to your Ahlum & Arbor arborists to get the best information regarding using chemicals on your trees.
Beautiful, Healthy Trees For Years To Come
By following these simple do’s and don’ts of tree care, you can ensure the health, beauty, and longevity of your trees for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, consult with the professionals at Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation for expert advice and assistance. Happy tree tending!
