If you’re like most homeowners, you probably take great pride in your yard and gardens. And if you have trees on your property, it’s important to care for them properly in order to maintain their health and beauty. Here are 20 tips to help you do just that.
1. Get to know your trees
The first step in proper tree care is to get to know your trees. This means identifying the type of tree and learning its growing habits. You can find this information in a gardening or arborist book, online, or from a local nursery.
2. Plant the right tree in the right place
It’s important to plant the right tree in the right place. For instance, if you have a lot of shade, you’ll want to plant a shade tree. And if you have a lot of room, you may want to plant a large tree. Be sure to also take into account the wind and drainage patterns on your property when selecting a location for your tree.
3. Water your trees properly
Just like other plants in your garden, trees need water to stay healthy. Be sure to water them regularly, especially during the hot summer months. A good way to tell if your tree needs water is to check the soil moisture with your finger. If the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it’s time to water your tree.
4. Mulch your trees
Mulching your trees is a great way to protect their roots and keep the soil moist. You can use any type of mulch, such as compost, bark chips, or leaves. Just be sure to keep the mulch 2-3 inches away from the trunk of the tree.
5. Fertilize your trees
Fertilizing your trees will help them to grow strong and healthy. You can buy tree fertilizer at most garden stores. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, as too much fertilizer can actually be harmful to your trees.
6. Prune your trees regularly
Pruning your trees will help to promote new growth and keep them looking their best. Be sure to prune during the dormant season, which is typically from late fall to early spring.
7. Protect your trees from pests
Trees are susceptible to a variety of pests, such as insects, diseases, and animals. Be sure to check your trees regularly for signs of pests and take action if you see any. You can buy pest control products at most garden stores.
8. Watch for signs of distress
If you notice that your trees are starting to show signs of distress, such as dropping leaves or branches, it’s time to take action. Contact a local arborist for help diagnosing and treating the problem.
9. Be mindful of your trees during storms
Trees can be damaged in storms, so it’s important to be aware of their location and take steps to protect them if necessary. For example, you may want to tie down large trees with ropes or braces during a storm.
10. Use proper pruning techniques
Pruning your trees improperly can actually do more harm than good. Make sure to use the proper pruning techniques for the type of tree you have. If you’re not sure how to prune your tree, contact a local arborist for help.
11. Don’t top your trees
Topping your trees is bad for their health and can actually make them more susceptible to storm damage. If you need to reduce the height of your tree, it’s best to remove the entire top section.
12. Don’t remove too much of the roots
Removing too many roots can damage your tree and make it more likely to topple over in a storm. If you need to remove some roots, be sure to leave at least 2/3 of the root system intact.
13. Use a tree support
If your tree is top-heavy or has a weak branch, you may want to use a tree support to help it stay upright. There are many different types of trees supports available, so be sure to select the one that best suits your needs.
14. Watch for ice and snow damage
Ice and snow can do serious damage to trees, so it’s important to be prepared for it. For example, you may want to remove any fallen branches from around the tree and keep an eye on the tree for any signs of distress.
15. Protect your trees during construction
If you’re doing construction work on your property, it’s important to take steps to protect your trees. For instance, you may want to mark the location of any underground utilities before starting any digging.
16. Don’t plant your tree too deep
Planting your tree too deeply can damage the roots and make it more difficult for the tree to obtain nutrients. Be sure to plant your tree at the correct depth, which you can find on the nursery tag or in a planting guide.
17. Don’t Plant Your Tree Too Close to Your House
Planting your tree too close to your house can damage the foundation or siding. It’s best to plant trees at least 10 feet away from any structures on your property.
18. Consider the mature size of the tree when planting
It’s important to consider the mature size of the tree when planting it. For instance, you don’t want to plant a small tree in a spot where it will eventually grow too large.
19. Water your trees regularly
Watering your trees is essential for their health. Be sure to water them deeply and regularly, especially during hot summer months.
20. Mulch your trees
Mulching your trees can help to protect them from pests and diseases, as well as keep the soil moist. You can buy mulch at most garden stores.
