The value of trees in our landscapes cannot be overstated. Their canopies provide shade and keep temperatures down during hot summer days; they clean the air and enrich the soil, and they give shelter to the wildlife needed for a healthy ecosystem. A few well-placed trees have the power to transform a mundane landscape into something breathtaking. Understanding the best ways to keep your trees healthy will ensure they continue to thrive and provide these benefits.
With all these benefits, it’s well worth the effort to maintain your trees throughout the year. In this article, we’ll cover some tree care fundamentals that you can put into practice right away.
The benefits of mulching
Mulching is an easy way to support tree health and one of the best ways to keep your trees healthy. Both organic and inorganic mulches offer a wide variety of health benefits and give a nice visual contrast to surrounding green turf.
Mulching prevents grass and weeds from growing by blocking the sun and physically impeding their growth. These plants compete for water and nutrients in the soil, so keep them away to ensure your trees get the nutrients they need.
Mulching retains moisture in the soil, particularly during water shortages and heat waves. It also shields the soil from direct sunlight and wind, reducing evaporation.
Mulching acts as an insulator by regulating extreme temperature swings (this never happens in Boise does it?). In the summer, soil remains cool, and in the winter it protects against freezing. This helps the roots continue taking in water all year round.
Prune for good health
One of the best ways to keep your trees healthy is pruning. It is the act of cutting away unhealthy or overgrown parts of the tree, to stimulate growth and maintain good health. It is an important part of plant maintenance and beneficial to young and old plants alike.
Prune dead and diseased branches to encourage fresh growth and protect the rest of the tree from infection. This removes potential breeding sites for harmful pests and diseases which could destroy the rest of the tree if given the chance.
Prune away weakened sections to prevent falling branches. This protects everyone and everything within the vicinity. Be especially mindful in locations with heavy winds and regular snowfall.
Prune right from the beginning to shape young trees into robust and aesthetically pleasing mature trees. Annual maintenance reduces the chances of disease and pest causing problems down the road.
Proper Watering
One of the ways to keep your trees healthy, whether a sapling or an old, established tree, water is an absolute necessity. During periods of regular rainfall, nature provides more than enough for most species. But in times of drought, a little manmade irrigation goes a long way.
Water soil deeply to promote deeper root systems better equipped for drought. We recommend drip irrigation or soaker hoses over sprinklers. Aim for at least eight inches deep.
Water should be prioritized for young trees during drought. Young trees require around ten gallons of water a week for survival. Older trees have much more extensive roots and only need one deep watering per month to survive a water shortage.
Water during cooler fall months to make sure your trees are fully hydrated and prepared for the coming winter. Trees have difficulty drawing water from frozen soil, so take full advantage whenever possible
Start off on the right foot
Before you go out and plant trees in your landscape, make sure to have a solid plan. For the best ways to keep your trees healthy, consider the layout of your property, the local weather conditions, and the types of pests and diseases native to Idaho.
For the best results, choose native species adapted to live in the area. Aim for a wide variety of species; pests tend to be attracted to specific types, and diversity helps prevent all your trees from being targeted simultaneously.
Try to learn the average size of each tree in order to guarantee they’ll have enough space to grow to maturity. For example, if you plant a tall pine near a power line, that can cause problems in the future. Instead, plant it where you know the canopy and roots will have the room they need to thrive.
If you need help planning and caring for your trees, consider booking a complimentary meeting with Lawn Master. We have 20+ years of experience offering an assortment of tree and lawn care services throughout Ada and Canyon county. Call us at (208) 989-9261.
