Tree Care Basics

Trees can add depth and beauty to any yard but they need to be cared for properly in order to thrive. Ignoring a tree’s basic needs can lead to poor growth, insect damage, disease and even death. With proper planting, watering, mulching, pruning, inspections and other general tree care, trees can flourish for decades.

Planting

When installing new plants, follow the species-specific instructions for the type of plant you’re planting and dig a hole that’s large enough to accommodate the root ball of the plant. Backfill the soil, gently tamping it as you go to remove air pockets and establish a good foundation for your tree or shrub. Water the newly planted plant regularly to ensure adequate hydration. This is especially important for young trees and in dry weather.

Mulching

When a tree is planted, it’s important to cover the soil with a layer of wood chips or another organic material to help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds and reduce competition from grass. Mulch should extend up to the trunk flare of the plant (the point at which the roots begin to branch out from the trunk). Water the mulch as needed to keep it moist, but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Like other plants, trees need fertilizer to promote growth and health. However, it’s important to follow the directions on the label and to never overfertilize a plant. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to grow too quickly without developing a strong, healthy root system and may also lead to an imbalance of nutrients.

Pruning

Routine pruning can prevent many common problems in a tree, such as crossing branches and competing shoots. However, pruning a tree too soon after planting can stunt growth and prevent the formation of a strong structure. Generally, it’s best to leave major pruning to qualified arborists or to those who have been trained in proper formative pruning techniques.

Inspecting

Regularly inspect your trees for a variety of issues, including pest infestations and dead or damaged branches. It’s important to have an ISA Certified Arborist look at your trees at least once a year to spot problems before they become serious or dangerous.

When choosing a tree service company, consider whether they belong to well-respected industry organizations. Companies that belong to reputable associations are more likely to be up-to-date on best practices and more familiar with the issues that affect your specific area. This can save you time and money in the long run by ensuring that your arborist is knowledgeable about the most recent and best practices in your city or neighborhood. In addition, if your arborist is a member of an association, you can trust that they are a professional. This means that you can rest assured that they will provide quality work and will do everything they can to protect your property.

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