A lush, green yard undoubtedly enhances your home’s curb appeal. But it doesn’t happen by chance – lots of man-hours go into freshening up outdoor spaces. For a start, you can click here to go on Rich’s Tree Service website and see the difference the firm’s conscientious professionals are making in Portland.
A great way to maintain your yard is to keep the trees in your garden healthy and robust. To make sure they continue being a source of joy for years, consider implementing the following simple tips:
1. Give Them a Drink
Trees have different needs at different stages in their development. For instance, young sprouts require more water to establish strong roots and grow. But as they age, they become more resilient and can handle longer periods without water. That said, during droughts, even mature trees need water.
It also pays to understand your trees’ needs. Are they the type that can handle a bit of neglect, or do they require constant TLC? Generally, though, endeavor to saturate your trees’ root zone with a slow, deep watering session.
And while a lawn sprinkler can do a good job of watering your grass, it’s not the ideal option for trees. Since it doesn’t water deep enough, it can cause your trees to develop narrow roots – a common cause of stunting. With that in mind, be proactive by setting up a drip system that gets the roots more water.
2. Mulch Your Trees
Mulching offers many benefits, such as trapping moisture in the soil and preventing weed growth. It also helps regulate the soil’s temperature, which works wonders during extreme weather. For instance, in winter, it prevents water from freezing and damaging the tree’s root system. And in summer, it minimizes evaporation, ensuring the roots have enough moisture. Likewise, it curbs weed growth and pest infestation while improving the overall soil structure.
Use organic matter like bark chips, pine straw, gravel, or wood shavings to get the most out of mulching. While at it, create a 2-3 inch mulch ring around the trunk and spread it out to cover an area at least 2 feet away from the tree’s base. Also, avoid piling mulch up against your trees’ trunks as it can promote moisture and fungal problems – potentially causing irreparable damage to your trees.
3. Prune and Trim Properly
Do your trees have overhanging or dead branches? Are some of the branches diseased or infested? If so, consider pruning or trimming them. The former involves the removal of unwanted or damaged parts, while the latter implies shaping trees to create a desired look.
By removing weak or dead wood, you can promote healthy tree growth. Also, pruning prevents the spread of diseases that can decimate your trees. It may also avert damage caused by falling or broken branches.
While trimming or pruning your trees, use the right tools and take precautions when dealing with large branches. But if you’re unsure how to go about it or don’t have the proper equipment, consider seeking professional help. An arborist can also help you identify diseases and recommend ways to fix them.
4. Fertilize as Needed
Nutrition is essential for every living organism, and your trees are no different. If your subsoil is poor in essential nutrients, it’s advisable to fertilize your trees regularly. But, you need to identify the right fertilizer – if you opt for commercial products. And once you do, adhere to the guidelines on the label since over-fertilization can damage your trees – while under-fertilization won’t help either.
Likewise, manure or compost is a great option. You can make it at home or buy it from a local store. If you go down this route, investigate your source and confirm the manure is free of pesticides or weed killers.
And before you fertilize, check the soil’s pH level. If it’s too low, fertilizing won’t help much since the soil may not absorb the essential nutrients. An arborist can test your soil and help you pick the ideal fertilizer. Plus, a soil test can reveal deficient nutrients – especially if your trees have yellow foliage or appear stunted.
5. Protect The Trunks
A tree’s bark is akin to our skin. If the bark gets damaged, it gives pests and diseases an opening to invade the trees, which can result in permanent damage.
Bear in mind that your trees are susceptible to damage from animals, vehicles, spray heads, and lawnmowers. Thus, construct a protective barrier or use tree wraps or guards to safeguard tree trunks from potential harm. You may also remove lower limbs if they’re within reach of mowers or animals. Additionally, inspect your trees regularly for signs of injury or disease and take corrective measures immediately.
Your trees’ health depends on the care you give them. Hence, take the steps above to help them develop a strong root system and remain healthy. And if you have further queries or need help tending to your trees, consider contacting an arborist near you.
Lush Landscapes And Pruned Trees: The Power Of Fast And Affordable Portland Tree Service
Lush Landscapes And Pruned Trees: The Power Of Fast And Affordable Portland Tree Service