Common Mistakes to Avoid In Tree Maintenance Practices

Tree care is a critical part of keeping your landscape healthy and beautiful. Therefore, learning common mistakes to avoid in tree maintenance practices is essential to the wellness and appearance of your trees. As tree care professionals and certified arborists, we ask you, please don’t subject your trees to:

Improper Pruning

Pruning is a fundamental aspect of tree maintenance, necessary to remove dead or diseased branches and promote healthy growth. But improper pruning techniques can cause significant harm. Over-pruning, cutting too close to the trunk, and leaving large, stubbed branches can open pathways for pests and diseases and cause undue stress to the tree. Adhere to recommended pruning guidelines and ensure cuts are made at the correct angle and position to foster rapid healing and prevent adverse effects.

Volcano Mulching

Mulching serves as an effective method to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth. However, the practice of volcano mulching, where mulch is piled high against the trunk of the tree can lead to root rot, fungal growth, and increased vulnerability to pests. To circumvent these risks, use a mulch layer no more than 2-3 inches deep, and spread outward and away from the trunk, not directly against it.

Tree Topping

Tree topping, or drastically cutting back large upper branches to stubs, is a highly controversial and harmful practice. Contrary to promoting tree health, topping can lead to weak new growth, increased susceptibility to disease and decay, and a shortened lifespan for the tree.

Instead of risking your tree’s health and creating a potential eyesore, employ professional pruning. Certified arborists, guided by a thorough understanding of tree biology and structure, can manage trees without compromising their integrity.

Poor Soil Quality

A tree’s health is literally rooted in soil conditions. Neglecting soil quality—be it through compaction, contamination, or erosion—can severely impact a tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. Regular assessment of soil conditions, coupled with appropriate amendments and practices to enhance soil structure and fertility, is crucial for sustaining tree vitality.

Stress or Disease

Overlooking early signs of stress or disease in trees can lead to severe consequences, including tree death and the need for tree removal services.

Symptoms such as discolored leaves, premature leaf drop, or the presence of fungi and pests warrant immediate attention. Prompt identification and intervention can prevent the spread of issues and save the tree from irreversible damage.

Tree care is a nuanced practice that requires knowledge, patience, and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes in tree maintenance, you can ensure your trees remain a lasting and thriving component of your landscape. Our commitment to providing expert guidance underscores the importance of adopting correct tree maintenance practices, safeguarding the health and beauty of your trees for years to come.