As a Corvallis homeowner, you probably value the trees on your property. However, most people don’t know much about taking care of them. In fact, most of what people hear about tree care is incorrect, based on myths and misconceptions. That’s why the ISA-certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following top myths of tree care according to the International Society of Arboriculture.
Topping A Tree Stops Its Growth While Improving Health
As a common misconception, topping is deadly for all trees. In fact, it is one of the worst things you can do to a tree. When the top of a tree is removed, it creates a hazardous danger since a tree will continue to grow outward rather than upward, resulting in weak and poorly attached growth. Furthermore, topping a tree significantly reduces its ability to take in energy, making it more susceptible to disease and insect infestation.
Tree Cavities Can be Filled with Concrete
Filling a tree cavity with concrete used to be standard back in the day. Why? People thought it would help strengthen weak trees. Today, however, we know that this can cause serious harm to a tree. When a tree filled with concrete moves with the wind, the concrete inside of it stays immobile, causing abrasion. This increases the chances of decay, making a tree the perfect host for disease and infestation.
Branches Grow Back No Matter What
It’s unfortunate when a homeowner takes a stab at trimming their trees when they don’t know what they are doing. Why? Branches don’t grow back, causing permanent damage. The best way to avoid this scenario is to hire the professionals at Westcoast Tree Care to prune and trim your trees. Unless you have experience doing this kind of work, the odds are you’ll make some major mistakes that your tree will certainly pay the price for.
Dead or Diseased Branches Will Come Down on Their Own
While it’s true that dead or diseased branches will eventually fall on their own – this is extremely hazardous to rely on, which can result in serious property damage, injury, or death. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to your trees and have any dead or diseased branches professionally removed to maintain the safety of your home and property.
The More Mulch The Better
Mulch is essential to the growth of healthy trees. However, there is a such thing as too much. While mulch helps to maintain temperature and moisture levels, it can encourage mold and fungus growth if it’s applied too heavily. For effective results, mulch should be applied 2-4 inches deep around the base of your tree to keep it healthy. However, it’s important to leave a clear space around the trunk.
Westcoast Tree Care
These are only a few of the tree care myths that circulate online and by word of mouth. Rather than depending on old wives’ tales, it’s best to contact the professionals at Westcoast Tree Care for any of our Corvallis tree care services. We understand the complexities of trees and the care they require. For more information or to get a no-cost, no-obligation quote, fill out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733 today.
