Tree Care Tips For Your Yard

Trees are a beautiful and useful addition to any landscape. However, just like any other part of your yard, they require care to thrive. This includes proper watering, fertilization, mulching, weed control, and protection from pests and disease. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your trees continue to provide your yard with the beauty and benefits they give you for years to come.

Tree Health

Newly planted trees – particularly those in the first three years – need regular watering to develop a deep root system. This is especially important during hot, dry summer months. If not properly watered, young trees may not reach their full potential size and can become more vulnerable to diseases and insect damage.

When watering your trees, it is best to do so slowly. A watering bag, hose set to a low trickle, or even just three 5-gallon buckets with holes drilled in the bottom placed at the base of the tree can make a significant difference. Watering should be done at least twice a week during the hot summer months.

Proper pruning can also help maintain tree health and safety. This is particularly true in the case of young trees, as improper pruning can stunt growth and lead to future problems. Ideally, the pruning should be performed before a tree enters its dormant period for the winter.

Mulching the area around the base of your tree is a great way to conserve soil moisture and reduce competition from weeds. It is best to mulch with a material that will break down and retain moisture, such as shredded bark or leaf compost. Avoid using a dense mulch that will restrict root growth. A thin layer of mulch, no more than a couple inches thick, is ideal.

Weeds and other plants can quickly choke out the roots of your newly planted trees, so it is important to remove any weeds or other plants that are growing near your young trees. Pull or hoe grass and weeds carefully, in a circle of at least a half-meter around the base of your trees. This will keep weeds from competing for the soil moisture and prevent the need to use lawnmowers or other damaging machines close to your trees.

In addition to weeding, it is essential to keep up with regular maintenance on your mature trees. This includes regular pruning and monitoring for any signs of disease or insects. If caught early, these can be treated and prevented before the problem becomes more serious.

For the ultimate peace of mind, it is always a good idea to have your trees regularly checked by an ISA Certified Arborist. Not only will they be able to assess your tree for problems, but they can also provide suggestions and solutions to protect and enhance the health of your trees.

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