The trees in your yard play an important role in the overall health of your home and property. Not only do they provide shade and aesthetic value, but they can also help improve air quality and protect your home from wind damage. That’s why it’s essential to take proper care of your trees this spring so that they can thrive for years to come.
In this article, the ISA-certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following Medford tree care tips that you should remember this season.
Clean Underneath Your Trees
One of the most important tree care tips is to clean up any debris that has accumulated underneath your trees. This includes leaves, twigs, and branches. Leaving these debris untouched can create an ideal environment for pests and diseases to thrive. It can also prevent your trees from getting the sunlight and air circulation they need to stay healthy. To clean up under your trees, simply rake up the debris and dispose of it in a garbage bag. You can also use a leaf blower to make the job easier.
Inspect Your Trees Closely
Another important tree care tip is to inspect your trees closely for any signs of damage or disease. Look for things like cracks in the bark, dead branches, or yellowing leaves. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to contact the ISA-certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care as soon as possible. We will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
You should also keep an eye out for any pests that may be infesting your trees. Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and mites. These pests can cause serious damage if left unchecked, so it’s important to deal with them right away.
Watch Out for Dead Tree Limbs
One of the most dangerous things that can happen to your trees is a dead limb falling off and hitting something or someone. This is especially true during storms when high winds can cause dead limbs to break. To avoid this, it’s important to inspect your trees for any dead or dying limbs. If you see any, be sure to have them removed by a certified arborist. It’s also a good idea to prune your trees regularly. This will help remove any dead or diseased branches before they have a chance to fall off and cause damage. Pruning also helps promote new growth and keeps your trees looking healthy.
Use Mulch Around the Bottom of Your Trees
Mulch is a great way to help protect your trees from weeds, pests, and diseases. It also helps retain moisture in the soil, which is important for tree health. When using mulch, be sure to spread it around the entire base of the tree, making sure that it doesn’t touch the trunk. This can cause problems with rot or insect infestations.
It’s also important to use the right type of mulch. A good option is wood chips or shredded bark. You should avoid using rocks or gravel as they can impede drainage and cause problems with root growth. Too much mulch can also be harmful, so be sure not to pile it too high around your trees.
Use Fertilizer Sparingly
Fertilizer can be beneficial for trees, but it’s important not to overdo it. Too much fertilizer can actually do more harm than good by burning the roots or causing excessive growth. When using fertilizer, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It’s also a good idea to have your soil tested before fertilizing to see what nutrients it is lacking. This will help you choose the right fertilizer for your needs.
In general, it’s best to use a slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These are the three main nutrients that trees need for healthy growth. You should also avoid using any type of herbicide or pesticide around your trees as these can damage the roots or kill beneficial insects.
Don’t Forget to Water Your Young Trees
One of the most important tree care tips is to water your young trees regularly. This is because they are still establishing their root system and need a lot of moisture to survive. You should water your young trees once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Be sure to check the soil before watering to make sure that it isn’t already moist. Too much water can also be harmful, so avoid overwatering your trees. If you’re not sure how much to water, it’s best to err on the side of caution and give them a deep soaking rather than a light sprinkling.
Check to See if Your Trees Have Enough Water for the Summer
As the weather gets hotter, your trees will need more water to stay healthy. This is because they will be losing water through their leaves in the form of evaporation. To make sure that your trees have enough water, you should check the soil around them regularly. If it feels dry, give them a deep watering. You should also consider getting an irrigation system installed if you don’t already have one. This will help ensure that your trees get the water they need even during periods of drought. Installing an irrigation system can be a big investment, but it’s worth it if you want to keep your trees healthy and happy.
Medford Tree Care
If you’re not sure how to care for your trees or don’t have the time to do it yourself, consider hiring the ISA-certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care. If you would like more information about the Medford tree care services we provide, contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733.
