Safety Tips For Tree Care

Tree Care is the application of arboricultural methods like pruning, planting and felling/thinning woody vegetation in built environments. This includes road verges, greenways, backyards and park trees. It requires high safety standards due to the heights involved and the potential risks of working in close proximity to power lines, structural buildings and parking cars. It also requires the handling of potentially hazardous machinery and pesticides. Choosing the right professional is essential for safe and effective work. ISA Certified Arborists (or simply arborists) have received specialized training, passed a rigorous test and continue to enhance their skills through education.

A tree’s roots need optimal soil conditions to develop and grow properly. This means a well-drained soil that’s rich in nutrients and can hold water. It’s also important that there is sufficient space between trees to allow for good air circulation.

Poor Soil Conditions

Trees planted in soil that is overly compacted or sandy can suffer from root girdling and may not develop the proper structural support. This can lead to crown rot and other problems, especially in the case of young trees. Staking new or immature trees may be necessary to help them stand up straight in the first growing season. However, this should be avoided if possible to encourage natural movement of the canopy and root system.

Not Enough Proper Watering

Whether they’re young or mature, all trees need enough water to thrive. Insufficient irrigation can lead to a variety of problems, including root rot and insect infestations. Overwatering can also damage or kill the roots and rob the canopy of its ability to absorb light.

The Right Tree, Right Place – Selecting the correct species for your site ensures the health and longevity of the plant. It should be adapted to your USDA hardiness zone, resistant to local insect or disease outbreaks and able to grow in the conditions of your region.

Unnecessary Staking – Straining a tree may disrupt its natural growth pattern and make it vulnerable to damage during storms or high winds. It should be used sparingly and only in situations where the root system has failed to establish adequate structural support.

Excessive Pruning – Overly extensive pruning can remove a tree’s ability to self-support, weakening it and making it susceptible to damage and disease. It can also interfere with its ability to provide shelter and food for birds and other wildlife.

Not Using Proper Mulch

Many homeowners and condo/co-op communities put mulch or peat moss around the base of their trees to pretty up the landscape. This seemingly harmless tip can actually rob the tree of its vital nutrients and oxygen supply, however. In fact, too much mulch can cause rot, block the roots from receiving adequate air and sunlight and prevent the trunk from absorbing moisture.

Fortunately, there are several easy things you can do to avoid these common mistakes and give your trees the proper care they need. So, before it’s too late and the weather turns colder, get your trees ready for fall by addressing their nutrient needs, trimming dead or problematic branches and removing debris that could harbor pests.