Proper tree care is a mystery to most. Plant a tree and nature will take care of the rest, right? That may be true in the forest, but in your yard and in your community, trees need a special kind of care to stay healthy and beautiful for years to come. Trees need to be protected from, well, people! Trees in our neighborhoods contribute to the quality of our lives while promoting health and they make our communities more livable. Urban trees clean our air, cool and shade our homes, and increase the value and aesthetics of our properties. If your trees had the opportunity, would they move to your neighbor’s yard because they are not being well taken care of? Your trees need and deserve regular maintenance.
Not sure where to start when it comes to tree care or maintenance? Here are some tips that can help you keep your trees healthy and well-maintained, keeping your property beautiful and safe, no matter what the season is. Learn more about how proper tree care can prevent you from becoming your tree’s worst enemy.
Truths About Tree Removals, Tree Topping & Permits
- Because trees are vital to every breath we take and the water we drink, most cities now require a permit for tree removal.
- Topping of trees is not only bad for the tree but creates long term safety hazards for people and property. While there are ways to effectively reduce the height of deciduous or leafy trees, there is no safe or effective means to lower the height of any type of firs, or needle bearing trees. Before taking a sharp object to any tree, consult a tree professional that can help with pruning it the right way.
- Removing trees without a permit is illegal and can result in fines for property owners and tree companies. It’s not uncommon for fines to be $1,000 per tree or more.
- Trees in the right of way (generally between the sidewalk and street) are owned by the city. However, it is important to know that you are responsible for maintenance and replacement if needed. Permits are required for removals in most cities and some cities require permits for pruning. Check city websites for local regulations before you take action on any tree, as to avoid costly fines.
Tips on Keeping Your Trees Healthy:
- Understand what your tree needs.
Each variety of tree requires care, but the kind of care it needs can vary. Research the tree varieties in your yard and figure out how much water it needs, what it may be sensitive to, and if it’s drought resistant. - Keep tree roots protected.
Healthy tree roots are required for healthy trees. Make sure the soil around it is not compacted, as this can obstruct the water and oxygen that is necessary for the roots. - Water well.
Even if your trees are well-established and thriving, without regular water they can still suffer. During dry seasons, be sure to keep them watered. If your trees are newly planted, be sure they are watered regularly to help them establish roots and thrive in the new soil. - Prune regularly.
Removing dead or damaged tree branches is important because it prevents hazards to people and property and it can stop insects and other organisms from harming the tree. Pruning also invites air and sunlight into the branches, which can save a tree from diseases and other problematic conditions. Do your research on how to prune in the different seasons, as pruning needs to be adjusted for the weather as well as when they are dormant or blooming.
Want to learn more about proper tree maintenance and seasonal yard care? Our team at Inexpensive Tree Care can help.
