Tree Care – How to Properly Maintain Your Trees

Trees are a big part of the curb appeal of your property. A well-manicured lawn and freshly painted porch is nice, but it’s not quite complete without some healthy trees to provide a lush backdrop for your home. Properly maintaining trees helps increase property value and ensures the safety of anyone who ventures under their shade.

A wide range of services fall under the umbrella term “Tree Care,” including trimming, pruning, mulching, and fertilization. When choosing a company, ask for credentials such as training, experience, insurance, and references. Getting quotes from multiple companies is a good idea, but avoid selecting one solely on price. Price is a poor indicator of the quality of service that a tree service will provide.

In the spring, as trees come out of dormancy and start growing vigorously, it’s important to keep up with maintenance tasks such as mulching, watering, and fertilization. It’s also a good time to consider having your trees evaluated for pests and diseases, which is a crucial component of preventive health care.

Mulching is an effective way to help soil maintain proper moisture levels, add nutrients, and insulate roots. However, it’s important to be mindful of how the mulch is applied. The most desirable mulch is a thin layer, and it should never touch the trunk of the tree. The mulch should be checked periodically to ensure it is not too thick, and should be reapplied after the topsoil freezes in winter.

Pests are a constant concern, especially in urban areas, where human activity and pollution increase the likelihood of infestations. Proper pruning and regular inspections can help reduce the risk of pest problems by eliminating food sources, reducing the number of places insects can nest, and discouraging pest migration. Preventive health care plans include integrating pest management and encouraging beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to prey on harmful ones.

A good pruning program can also help trees withstand winter weather, which often means heavy snow and ice buildup. It’s recommended to prop up lower branches and regularly brush off ice from branches to avoid breakage. It’s also wise to avoid using salt-based deicers near trees, as this can harm roots and soil structure.

Newly planted trees should be staked for no more than one season, to allow the root system to establish. After this period, the staking should be removed to allow for proper growth and support. When determining the right staking method for each situation, consideration must be given to the size of the tree and the surrounding landscape. For example, staking young trees may be necessary to prevent damage from wind or animal impact, while structurally weak trees require support to keep them upright in strong winds. In these cases, a system of guy wires may be the most appropriate solution.

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