The Importance of Tree Maintenance

Trees are a natural part of our landscapes. They add beauty, increase property values and improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also serve to prevent soil erosion and flooding. However, trees are exposed to high stress conditions such as poor soils, drought, pollution, traffic and soil compaction. This stress can lead to slow or sudden tree failure and leave the trees vulnerable to insect infestations and diseases. To avoid these conditions your trees need to be properly maintained and cared for.

Using a mulch layer on your landscape beds is one of the best tree maintenance practices you can use. Mulching insulates roots, provides a buffer from heat and cold, helps retain water, suppresses weeds and promotes soil health. However, too much mulch can cause root rot and soil compaction.

Proper pruning is another important tree maintenance practice. Pruning for tree health involves removing diseased or damaged limbs, promoting wound closure and preventing structural defects such as crooked, leaning or overgrown trees. There are multiple pruning techniques that can be applied to specific trees based on their age, size and species.

Regular supplemental watering can help trees through dry periods, but be careful about over-watering. A lack of oxygen to the roots can occur when the soil is too saturated with water. This can be caused by driving cars or heavy equipment over the soil around the base of your trees, by adding or removing too much soil, or by applying excessive mulch.

In the winter, protecting trees from cold temperatures can help them maintain their vigor and withstand frost damage. This can be done by covering the base of the trunk with a blanket or tarp and staked securely.

If you see pests or diseases in the canopy of your trees or the soil surrounding their roots, contact a qualified arborist for advice on how to manage them. Some pests and diseases can be fatal if left unchecked, so early detection is key.

A well-qualified tree service company can assist with a variety of landscape issues such as abrasions from utility wires or the removal of trees that are too old or damaged to remain on the property. They have experience handling hazardous equipment and are familiar with horticultural and arboricultural standards. They also recognize the importance of following standardized safety practices on the job site.

Many people rely on a professional to prune or trim their hedges and shrubs. In the case of large trees, it may be necessary to hire a certified arborist with the right knowledge and skillset to work safely in their canopies. Additionally, many fast-growing invasive plants such as ivy or Japanese honeysuckle can be harmful to the overall health of your trees if they aren’t controlled. A professional arborist can help identify and remove these invasive plants to preserve the overall health of your landscape. They can also provide expert advice on planting and maintaining trees in urban settings.

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