A well-maintained tree is an attractive part of your landscape. It also provides a number of benefits for the health and beauty of your home. However, like any living thing, trees require routine care to thrive.
As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye on the state of your trees and take steps to ensure that they are healthy. Here are some tips to help you identify potential issues and keep your trees looking their best.
KEEP AN EYE ON THE LEAVES AND CANOPY
A general assessment of a tree’s learn more about tree care foliage is a good place to start your inspection. Look for leaves that are brown or wilting prematurely, which can indicate nutrient deficiencies or insect infestations. You should also take note of whether the canopy is full and lush or sparse. A sparse canopy can mean that a tree is not getting enough sunlight to grow properly, which in turn could lead to other problems.
MAKE SURE THE ROOTS HAVE ROOM TO STRETCH OUT
Roots need plenty of space to grow and expand, so it’s important to keep them away from your house and other structures. If the roots are crowded, it can inhibit their growth and cause damage to your property. To prevent this, regularly trim your trees to remove dead bits and prune limbs that overhang your roof or power lines.
CHECK FOR SIGNS OF PESTS
Many common insects, fungi, and rodents live in the canopies of trees. If left unchecked, these invaders can wreak havoc on a tree’s health and appearance, but you can prevent them from taking up residence in your yard by regularly trimming your trees and checking for pests.
LOOK FOR DECAY
Check the trunks of your trees for wounds or cavities, as well as signs of rot, such as mushrooms, peeling bark, and missing bark. If you notice any of these, you should consider hiring a professional to perform a more in-depth inspection and perform the necessary repairs.
INSPECT FOR CONSTRUCTION DAMAGE
Regularly inspect your trees before and during construction on your property to ensure that they are protected from machinery and excavation damage. There’s a high chance that an excavator, cherry picker, or other piece of heavy equipment will collide with your tree at some point during construction, and the result can be serious. If you’re planning on having construction done near your trees, have a tree expert prepare a plan drawing that shows the location of the existing trees and any proposed excavation, trenching, or re-grading.
It’s also a good idea to trim your trees in late winter or early spring, before they develop buds, to avoid having them cut in the heat of summer. A professional can trim your trees in the safest and most efficient way possible. They can also recommend the correct pruning technique for your trees to maximize their health and aesthetic appeal. If you’re unsure what your trees need, contact an ISA certified arborist for an inspection and consultation.