5 Tree Care Tips for Homeowners

5 Tree Care Tips for Homeowners

Did you know that the proper care and maintenance of your trees is essential to their health and longevity?

Not only will your trees live longer, but they will also add value to your property, help improve air quality, and support the natural environment around them too.

Whether you’re a professional arborist, or a homeowner just wanting to tend to the trees in your yard, it’s important to know some best practices when it comes to tree care. 

Here are five tips that can help you keep your trees healthy and looking their best. 

1. Water

Water your trees during dry periods, and summer months. Water your tree regularly, making sure to give it at least an inch of water per week. The best time to water is in the morning or evening, so the roots have a chance to absorb most of the water. 

2. Mulch 

Mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture and protect from weeds. The second advantage of mulch is to protect your trees from extreme weather conditions, pests and diseases. 

It is one of the best ways to fertilize a young tree by providing slow-release nutrition that leaches down to the roots below with rain. Fertilizing in springtime is great to provide a boost of nutrients for the growing season. 

3. Pruning

Depending on the location, species and age of your tree it can be advantageous to have a regular pruning regime to promote good air flow and to reduce potential structural failures. Fruit tree pruning is an art in its own right, so if you don’t have the confidence to take care of your own fruit trees best to reach out to a tree service company for assistance.  

Pro tip -Never remove more than 25% of the tree’s foliage at one time. 

See related: What are the main advantages of tree pruning

4. Pests & Disease

Watch for signs of pests or diseases and take action early and use organic pesticides or insecticides where necessary. Be mindful of what kinds of fertilizers and chemicals you use near your trees. Seek advice from an Arborist who knows about tree biology and tree disease, and then treat them accordingly. 

5. Storm Damage

Check for damage after storms or heavy snow and take corrective action as needed. Inspect your trees for broken branches or limbs, and anything that could become a hazard. 

Lighting storms? Yes, it’s common that trees get struck by lightning. A bolt of lightning direct on the tree can weaken its core making it more susceptible to damage from future windstorms. A thorough tree inspection and diagnostics can help determine the health of your tree and risk level after a lightning strike. 

Bonus tip: Give ‘em Space

If you are planting trees or transplanting, one of the most important things you can do is make sure they have plenty of room to grow. Overcrowding can stunt a tree’s growth and even cause it to die. 

Need help taking care of your trees? 

If you’re not sure what to do, or how to handle a specific tree, consult with the Advantage Tree Care team your local arborists in Victoria BC. Message or call us, we look forward to hearing from you.