How to Protect Your Trees from Damage

Trees play a significant role in improving the quality of the air. They are a beautiful addition to your landscape and property. They help prevent soil erosion and maintain the earth’s temperature. There are various environmental factors that can cause tree damage. These factors may include dry weather, flooding, insect infestations, the nature of the soil, and animals that can cause tree damage. Proper tree maintenance is essential to keeping your trees healthy and strong when experiencing severe weather conditions. 

Here are some tips to protect your trees from damage.

Regular Inspection

Inspect trees in your yard for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the trunk, broken branches, or holes in the bark. Also, examine the foliage of trees for discoloration or spots. The spots may indicate disease, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations. Assess the condition of root systems. Healthy roots should be evenly distributed, firm, and white. 

Damaged or diseased roots are discolored and have foul smells. If you’re unsure about the tree’s health, consult with a certified professional for tree care services. They have the expertise and experience to accurately inspect tree health and can give you better advice for treatment or care.

Proper Watering

Proper watering helps to prevent branches from drying up and breaking off. Dead and broken branches are unattractive and unsafe. They are also vulnerable to diseases and insect infestations. Proper and healthy hydration keeps your trees healthy and strong. A watering routine with desiccant spray helps trees retain water during drier weather and water scarcity conditions. 

Overhydration or too much moisture can cause a lack of oxygen and smother roots. Instead, apply large amounts of water once or twice per week. Newly planted trees should be watered once per week. However, a tree with a grassy lawn may need more water to thrive.

Grooming

Well-grooming helps to maintain tree health. Regular trimming and pruning give your trees an aesthetic look and prevent property damage. Unnecessary branches can fall and cause damage to your property or to people passing by. They also stop the maximum airflow and light penetration. So, keep your trees trimmed and pruned for enough air circulation and sunlight into the leaves. 

If your trees are overgrown, seek the help of professionals for tree trimming services. Rotten or dead fruits should be removed from tree branches or picked up from the ground. Burn fallen dead leaves before winter. Otherwise, they can spread diseases through their spores.

Mulching

Mulching is also an important step in tree maintenance. A well-mulched tree is generally healthier and can withstand the stress of extreme weather. Properly applied mulch helps to increase growth rates and conserve soil moisture. It also improves drainage and creates a strong root system. Mulch should be organic and applied around the tree to a depth of 2-4 inches. 

Regularly inspect the mulched areas for any signs of rodent activity during the winter. Use natural materials such as wood chips and bark as mulch and replace them when needed. Avoid using rocks and plastics to prevent soil compaction and root system suffocation.