Common Mistakes in Tree Care

Trees add beauty to our properties, provide a home for wildlife, and enhance the value of homes and businesses. They also help to clean the air and protect soil from erosion. However, like any living organism, trees require proper care to remain healthy and strong. Without it, a tree can become damaged or even die. This article will discuss some common mistakes that are made when caring for a tree and ways to avoid them.

Not watering enough

All plants need water to survive. For trees, it is especially important to provide them with sufficient moisture. But many homeowners misjudge the amount of water needed by their trees and end up overwatering them, which can cause root rot. It is recommended that you plant your new trees in well-draining soil, plant them at the correct depth, and water thoroughly a few times per week during dry weather.

Overwatering is a serious problem for new trees. Overwatering can lead to the death of a newly planted tree by starving it of oxygen. It can also encourage the growth of fungal roots that can rot the roots. To avoid this, be sure to water your trees properly by soaking the ground with a garden hose fitted with a spray nozzle.

Not fertilizing enough

All trees need adequate nutrients to grow. Trees need nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other macronutrients to thrive. But if too much of these nutrients are present in the soil, it can cause the tree to be unhealthy and susceptible to pests and disease. Fertilizing too often can also be harmful to the tree, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of fertilizer you are using.

Not pruning enough

Routinely removing dead branches from your trees is essential for maintaining healthy trees. This can reduce the risk of disease, pest infestation and falling limbs. Pruning also helps to remove heavier scaffold limbs so that newer branches can take their place in the canopy.

Not protecting the trunk

Newly planted and young trees are particularly susceptible to damage from lawn mowers, weed-eaters and other landscape equipment. Bumping into trees or whipping the bark can damage the trunk and expose it to insect invasions, diseases and fungi. For this reason, it is a good idea to maintain a mulched ring around the base of your trees to prevent mower or weed-eater damage.

Not planting the right tree in the right place

When it comes to planting, one of the most significant mistakes that our Davey arborists see is people planting a species that isn’t suited for their location. Make sure you choose a species that is resistant to local insect or disease outbreaks and adapted to your USDA hardiness zone. It’s also important to select a location that gets the sun and provides enough space for the tree when it reaches its full size.

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