Common Tree Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Over or Underwatering

Trees, like most living things, need adequate water to survive. Unfortunately, homeowners often get it wrong by over or underwatering their trees. If you provide less water than is required, it can cause drought stress and increase susceptibility to infections and infestations. On the other hand, overwatering can suffocate the tree and cause fungal disease. You can avoid such scenarios by prioritizing routine maintenance inspections with a professional tree service provider, ensuring your trees get the right amount of water depending on the weather.

Incorrect Mulching

Mulching is a vital tree maintenance task that entails applying a 2 to 4-inch layer of organic material around the base. While it offers many benefits, such as suppressing weeds, moisture retention, and soil temperature regulation, incorrect mulching can harm your trees. A common mistake among DIY enthusiasts is piling mulch against the trunk, causing moisture buildup, harmful pathogens, decay, and premature tree removal. In addition, choosing the wrong mulch material can lead to tree deterioration due to inadequate nutrients. If you are unsure about the right mulch material and technique, consult a trusted tree care company to help.

Ignoring Soil Health

The soil in your backyard plays a vital role in tree growth and development. However, ignoring soil health can have long-term consequences. If the soil is compacted, especially in areas with high foot traffic, the roots will struggle to access vital nutrients and water. Additionally, scheduling routine soil tests with a professional arborist can help you determine deficient nutrients for effective fertilization. Before fertilizing, watering, or planting trees in your yard, prioritize soil health for healthy growth and longevity.

Improper Staking

Young trees sometimes require staking for support, but improper staking can cause long-term damage. Tying a tree too tightly restricts movement, weakening the trunk. On the other hand, leaving stakes on for too long can cause girdling, where the ties dig into the bark and disrupt nutrient flow. Stakes should be placed loosely and removed after the tree establishes a strong root system, usually within a year.

Overlooking Seasonal Care

Different seasons require different tree care methods. If you don’t adjust watering schedules, fertilization, and pest control measures according to the season can leave trees vulnerable. Fertilizing in late summer may promote new growth susceptible to winter frost. Understanding seasonal needs ensures trees remain healthy year-round.

Caring for trees requires attention to detail and an understanding of their natural needs. Arbor & Acre can help you avoid these common mistakes, ensuring your trees grow strong, healthy, and beautiful for years. Contact our tree care company and schedule a consultation with our experts to ensure proper maintenance and contribute to a healthier environment.