Pruning, Trimming and Tree Pests

Many people do not realize it but pruning and trimming done in the wrong way can actually hurt trees. The reason these activities can hurt trees is that improper pruning and trimming can actually spread some diseases that can kill trees.

Tree killing diseases like Oak Wilt actually spread faster if trees are pruned at the wrong time of the year. To make matters worse the waste left from trimming and pruning can also spread fungus if it is not disposed of in a proper manner. Such wastes can spread some of the insects that attack trees. The best way for a property owner to prevent the spread of fungus like Beech Bark and Maple Tar Spot is to have trees maintained by a professional tree service. A good service will employ professional arborists who can prune and trim trees in such a way as to spread diseases. Unfortunately many home and property owners do not do this. Instead of proper maintenance they hire the first person who knocks on their door or that guy hanging around in the Home Depot parking lot. Yes these characters are cheap but they are probably not professional arborists. They do not know how to prune or trim trees properly. Nor do they know how to prevent the spread of fungus. In addition to proper pruning and trimming a professional tree service can spray trees for diseases. This can prevent the spread of the diseases, some of which can quickly kill trees. Unfortunately the trees most vulnerable to these blights are the big leafy ones that are the most attractive like oaks, willows and maples. These are the trees most likely to enhance property values and provide shade. They also give neighborhoods and towns their character. The best way to maintain these trees and preserve property value is through proper tree maintenance done by professionals. A professional service will cost more but it can keep your trees healthy and preserve the beauty of your property.

Maintaining the Soil for Healthy Trees

Keeping a tree healthy is not just a matter of pruning, spraying and watering the soil needs to be maintained as well. Plants get most their nutrition from the ground through their roots so you will need to pay some attention to the dirt.

This means that you may need to fertilize the soil around the roots. Some species will require special fertilizers while others can benefit from a more general product. It is best to consult the experts at a nursery or garden center to see which products you will need to use in your area.

There are several ways to apply the fertilizer. In some cases it can simply be spread on the ground. Liquid products should be applied below the ground through a root feeder. This takes the nutrients directly to the roots. Such a device is attached to a hose and the water forces the nutrients down to root level.

Soil for Seedlings

When you plant a new tree or seedling it is often a good idea to add fertilizer to the soil around the roots. Try to find the specific product for the species that you are planting and follow the instructions. In some cases, richer soil should be added.

If the seedling comes in a pot it would be a good idea to mix the dirt from the pot with that you use to cover the roots with. This can add nutrition and make the new plant healthier.

Special Consideration 

Some species will require special care and additives to keep them healthy. Ash will require a special mycorrizae fungus to thrive, this can be purchased online and from garden centers or nurseries. Adding this to the soil increases the tree’s ability to absorb nutrients and make it healthier.

Persons who live in urban areas should definitely consider adding such fungi because the city environment can kill the naturally occurring fungus. Ash is in most need of this additive but others species could benefit from it as well.

Such additives can help reduce stress which can make trees less susceptible to insects and infections. This can help them live longer and stay healthier to enhance your property.

Some Tree Pruning Tips

Pruning is one chore that owners of properties with trees cannot avoid but it can be done safely and intelligently. Exercising a little common sense can make the job go faster and reduce the risks from it.

The first and most important tip is to not climb trees for this task if you can avoid it. Only climb up and do it if you have had a lot of experience. Do not try climbing up to prune or trim if you haven’t done it before. It is also a good idea not to do this from a ladder.

Instead of risking life and limb to prune a few branches, buy a device called a pole trimmer or pole pruner. This is basically a chainsaw on the end of a pole. They come in both telescoping and single length models. You can use it to prune limbs while standing on the ground it is a lot safer and easier. You should be able to find these devices at any hardware or home improvement store.

Another tip is to not have young children and pets around while you are pruning. They can be hurt by falling branches and debris and they can distract which leads to accidents. Try to prune while kids are away or at school. Keep the pets in the house or on a leash while you are doing the job.

Make sure nobody is standing under you or under the tree while you are pruning. That way they will not be hurt by falling limbs or debris.

Also make sure that they do not distract while you are working because this can lead to accidents.

Try to stand on a flat and secure surface when pruning. Try to avoid pruning from the roof, ladders or out of windows. This can make it hard to see where branches are falling. It can also make it more likely for you to loose your balance and fall.

If you have to use a ladder make sure it is firmly in place and won’t fall over before you go up. Come down the moment you notice that the ladder is wobbly or insecure. Be especially careful with ladders on soft ground or lawns because this can be more insecure.