5 Ways to Love Your Trees

1. Water works!

Trees are good to us. They provide shade and shelter from the sun, filter the air we breathe, add beauty and value to our homes, provide habitat, and much more. But come on, what have you done for your tree lately? Here are 5 ways to return the love:

Trees use water year-round, so they need water year-round. The amount of water a tree utilizes changes throughout its annual growth cycle, but to make it simple - they always need water - particularly trees that are younger than two years. Here is a short article on tree watering basics. Also check out our blog post about winter watering! Yes - you can (and should) water in the winter during dry spells. 

NO MULCH VOLCANOES!

2. Mulch, but not much.

There are conflicting theories out there about whether mulch is harmful or helpful to trees. Mulch can help younger trees retain moisture and regulate soil temperature in the heat of the summer. It can also be used in areas where roots are exposed so you don't have to mow over and harm the roots. So if you like the way mulch looks in your landscape, use these tips to avoid harming your tree:

• Avoid the mulch "volcano" and keep it away from the trunk. Mulch piled against the trunk holds moisture and heat, which helps give diseases, such as canker, an easy point of access.
• Keep the mulch layer 2" deep or less.
• Watch this short video on proper mulching technique.

3. Do-it-yourself? Do-it-right!

If you are tackling a DIY pruning job on your trees, avoid flush cuts. While your first instinct may be to remove as much evidence of that tree branch as you can, it is important to leave the branch collar intact to prevent decay from entering the tree. The diagram to the right shows where the branch collar is, and also a three-step cut guide for removing the branch while minimizing harm to the rest of the tree. Read more here. 

4. Mind the roots.

• Soil compaction is a problem that many are unaware of. Roots need to be able to access oxygen in the soil in order to carry nutrients up toward the canopy. Compaction can take place during landscaping projects where soil is covered or heavy machinery is driven over the soil. Even heavy foot traffic or installing a small patio can cause harm, and sometimes the symptoms don't present themselves for years.
• Don't mow over exposed roots! Consider replacing turf with a thin, coarse layer of mulch that doesn't require mowing.

5. Find yourself a tree guy.

Find a trusted expert to help you maintain the trees on your property. Trees are an important asset and deserve professional attention and care. Don't leave your tree care to chance. Finding a certified arborist, like Arbor Aesthetics, is the first step in ensuring that you'll be able to love your trees for many years to come!