Common Mistakes in Tree Care

Trees are among the most significant investments homeowners make to enhance their property. They provide beauty and privacy, reduce energy costs, protect buildings and people from storm damage, and increase home value. Proper care of trees is crucial to their health, safety and longevity. Unfortunately, mistakes are common that can lead to a lack of benefit and even devastation.

One of the most common mistakes is planting a tree that is not of high quality. Poorly grown or grafted plants can be more susceptible to pests and disease, and their root systems may not develop properly. In addition, trees planted too early can become structurally weakened due to excessive growth and stress.

Another common mistake is overwatering, which can cause root rot and soil compaction, while not watering enough can result in drought and lack of oxygen to the roots. Also, piling up an excess of mulch can hinder the flow of water and nutrients.

Over-pruning can reduce a tree’s ability to grow and promotes a dense canopy that inhibits sunlight penetration and air movement, which can lead to disease and insect infestation. However, pruning is a necessary part of the process, and performed at the proper time can have beneficial effects on the health and structure of a tree.

A common mistake is not monitoring for and treating pests and diseases regularly. Infestations can spread and kill a tree or affect its appearance. Pests and diseases can often be prevented by avoiding unnecessary pruning, reducing the amount of debris and organic matter in the canopy, maintaining adequate spacing between trees, and using a proper planting method to ensure optimum soil conditions.

Invasive species can be disruptive to a tree’s health and need to be removed before they become too established. Invasive vines and shrubs often compete with the root system for nutrients and moisture, which can result in root rot and reduced overall health of the plant.

Hiring unqualified individuals to perform maintenance on your trees can be very dangerous, resulting in costly and possibly life-threatening damage. A qualified professional will have extensive knowledge of tree biology and a wide range of tools and techniques to perform tree work safely. Look for an ISA Certified Arborist who can evaluate the health of your trees and recommend the correct services. They can spot red flags such as discolored leaves, cankers, holes, and more, which can help prevent larger problems down the road. Also, qualified arborists can quickly respond to emergency situations, such as a fallen tree or branch, to mitigate damage and reduce the risk of injury or property loss. This can be especially important during storms and other weather events. They will have the equipment to remove damaged or dead trees quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of additional damage. They can also handle large-scale pruning and planting projects to improve the health and aesthetic of your landscape.

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