Trees need proper care to flourish and to be kept healthy.  Proper watering, mulching, fertilizing and pruning can help trees maintain their healthy composure.

Watering
Trees need water in different amounts vary depending on the type of species, soil type, site drainage and annual rainfall. A general rule is to apply one gallon of water for every square foot of surface area under the tree.  It is also important to water the trees in late fall. Late fall watering helps to buffer tree roots against rapid freezing and thawing. A moist root zone is better able to cope with temperature changes than a dry root.

Mulching
Mulching can help trees conserve soil moisture and slow soil cooling in late fall that can help in preventing root damage.  Another tip is that mulch should be applied so that it slopes inward toward the trunk at a depth of 2 inches on clay soils and 4 inches on sandy soils.

Fertilizing
Fertilizing trees in early spring gives important nutrients needed for healthy root growth that occurs in early spring. As roots grow, the crown or shoot system will grow in accordance as well. Shoot growth occur usually in late spring or early summer as root growth slows down. Slow-release fertilizers constituted of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium provide the best source of nutrition for trees.

Pruning
Regular pruning benefits trees in the following ways.  Pruning can extend the life and health of the trees.  It can also really help its appearance as well.  Pruning can also prevent potential storm damage by eliminating weak limbs susceptible to strong winds and rain.

RECOGNIZING AND REMOVING TREE HAZARDS


Signs of Possible Tree Hazards