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ARBORIST - SHRUBS AND TREES
I SPENT ALOT OF MONEY ON THAT TREE. WHY DID IT DIE?
Accidents
- Automobiles, storms and even lawnmowers can cause bark damage and wounds
on trees. One can avoid tree wounding by planting them in sheltered locations
or by providing some sort of barrier. Be very careful while using lawn mowers
and weed trimmers, as careless use can damage the roots and bark of even
large trees. Check for any damage incurred during heavy storms, and treat
it promptly. Remember the integrity and stability of a tree changes over
time.
Too Much Herbicide - When used properly, chemicals can benefit trees and their growth. Improperly used, herbicides can interact with the roots and damage the tree's health. Make sure the instructions for application are carefully followed. Call us if you are unsure.
Bad Planting - Planting is one of the most important processes to ensure the tree's health and longevity. Make sure the planting hole is two to three times wider but no deeper than the tree's root ball. Plant trees promptly and make sure they get adequate water so that roots do not dry.
Watering - Both over- and under-watering can be harmful for trees. Watering is critical for all trees in dry spells as well as young or newly transplanted trees. Monitoring the soil moisture is one of the best ways of making sure that adequate water is provided.
Location, Location, Location - Trees need proper sunlight and should be appropriate for the climatic conditions, or plant hardiness zone, of the area. Visualize the actual height the tree could reach and make sure there are no power lines in its path and the tree is a good distance from the house, other structures and other plants.
Soil Compaction - This is a slow tree damage process, often with few or no other signs of the cause. In compacted soil, pore space has been reduced and roots do not get enough oxygen. Often the tree slowly declines and dies. Soil compaction can be avoided by aerating the soil, by mulching and by preventing soil disruption around trees on construction sites.
Painting Tree Wounds and Filling Cavities with Concrete - Paint on tree wounds will actually trap moisture in the wood, increasing the chances of decay. If you want to paint a wound for cosmetic reasons, use a very thin coating of shelac. Trunk cavities filled with cement make the tree unusually rigid, which can restrict the tree's movement in high winds and leave the upper portion of the canopy to bear the brunt of the force.
Improper Pruning - Pruning should follow standards established in ANSI A300, published by the American National Standards Institute. Proper pruning is a tree health treatment, but one of the most neglected tree care practices.
WHAT KIND OF MULCH AND HOW MUCH DO I NEED?
Mulch-The tried and true recommended mulch is either double or triple grind natural hardwood processed mulch. This mulch provides the greatest benefits for the dollars invested.
How much? -The recommended mulch on flower and shrub beds is 2"-3" and 4" 6" in height around trees: The mulch should not be touching the tree trunk (pulled back away), but should be cupped at the top to collect water. When mulched is maintained at these heights the correct aeration, moisture absorption/release, bacterial breakdown occurs, and nutrients are fed to the plant roots. Be careful not to pile mulch higher than recommended due to negative consequences. Usually mulch should be refreshed every two to three years so as to accomplish the above.
CAN
ARBORVILLE HELP ME?
Yes. There is way too much to cover in this area. Arborville is available
to consult with you on a variety of issues. Call us today at 630-554-3300!
