Trees need routine care to keep them healthy and strong. This is especially important after a storm, as an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Many reputable tree services are accredited by the Better Business Bureau and carry liability insurance. They also recognize the importance of observing pruning standards and follow safety practices. Visit https://www.newbraunfelstreecare.com for more information.

Pruning is an essential part of tree care with various benefits that can impact the health and appearance of your landscape trees. Whether your goal is to promote plant growth, deter insect infestation, improve air circulation, or provide visibility, pruning is an important step in the health and maintenance of landscape trees.

When done properly, pruning is a beneficial practice that prevents damage and disease to the tree, and helps to maintain safety on your property. It also reduces the presence of dead branches that can become hazards to people and animals, as well as help to prevent damage to structures such as power lines or buildings.

Regular pruning can encourage new growth, which in turn can strengthen the limbs of the tree and improve its structure. It can also promote better light penetration into the canopy and reduce glare and shade on your lawn or gardens. Additionally, pruning can reduce the risk of damage caused by storms and high winds.

However, it’s crucial that you know the difference between proper and improper pruning techniques to avoid damaging your landscape trees and shrubs. When a tree is pruned inappropriately, it can lead to undesirable multiple leaders and trunks, weak codominant stems, and defects such as bark inclusions. It can also lead to thinning of the foliage and a decline in the overall health and appearance of the tree.

Some types of pruning require the use of specific tools, and you should always consult a professional tree service when doing any pruning on your landscape. Additionally, certain cuts need to be made at different times of the year in order to have a positive effect.

The best time of year for most pruning is in mid to late winter, when the trees are dormant and the leaves have fallen. This allows you to easily identify the limbs and branches that need to be removed. It’s also important to never leave stubs or “hat-rack” a tree. When pruning a mature tree, always prune to just above an appropriate growing point (branch or bud) and do not leave stubs longer than about two-thirds the diameter of the branch being removed.

Fertilization

The term fertilization is used to describe adding nutrients to soil (or sometimes directly to a plant) in order to improve its health and growth. Trees, like all plants, require specific nutrients to thrive. These nutrients are drawn from the surrounding soil by the roots and absorbed into the leaves through the process of photosynthesis. Generally speaking, trees and shrubs need large quantities of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

Fertilizer is one way to provide the essential elements that a plant needs. The goal is to make the plant healthier so that it can fend off insects and diseases that are often more prevalent in unhealthy plants.

Generally speaking, there are two types of tree fertilization: granular and liquid. Granular fertilizers are essentially dry powders that are spread uniformly over the surface of the soil or root zone. Liquid root feeding is when the nutrients are dissolved in water and soaked into the soil through the roots. This is a more targeted approach that is typically only done with professional lawn care companies as the equipment needed to perform this task can be costly.

Spring is an ideal time to apply a liquid tree fertilizer treatment because it gives the tree a jump-start as it emerges from its dormant period and begins growing again. Mid-year applications are also beneficial because the tree is going through a period of rapid growth and burning through its energy reserves quickly. The addition of a liquid fertilizer during this time allows the plant to replenish its nutrients and prepare for winter.

A professional arborist can determine the proper amount and type of fertilizer that is required for your trees by conducting a thorough soil test. The test will reveal the current status of your soil in terms of its nutrient content, pH, and cation exchange capacity. From there, an arborist can prescribe the correct blend of nutrients to ensure your trees grow healthy and strong.

While there are many benefits to tree fertilization, it is important to remember that fertilizer does not provide a complete solution for the health and well-being of your landscape. It is still necessary to properly prune your trees, water them regularly, and mulch them in order to protect the roots from extreme temperatures.

Watering

Water is essential to tree growth and survival. The amount of water required depends on a variety of factors including climate, soil type and the species of tree.

Newly planted trees require frequent watering until their roots are established in the ground. Afterwards, the frequency and duration of watering should decrease but never be stopped. Watering infrequently can cause a tree to become stressed, and the stress may manifest as wilting or premature leaf fall. Watering often will encourage root growth and discourage the emergence of root suckers, which can compete with the main root for moisture and nutrients.

Generally, tree roots grow in the top 16-20 inches of soil. Therefore, to determine whether or not a tree needs to be watered, you can feel the soil with your hands. Moist soil will feel a bit heavier and offer more resistance than dry soil. The best way to water a tree is by using a soaker hose or drip system that will allow for deep soaking and prevent the evaporation of water. However, if these types of systems aren’t possible, watering with a sprinkler can also work but make sure the nozzles aren’t spraying on the leaves.

Summer weather can be especially tough on trees, so it is important to keep up with regular watering and monitoring for any signs of stress or disease. Getting to know your property and the trees on it can make all the difference in keeping them healthy and beautiful for a long time. If you notice any issues, such as discoloration or bugs on your trees or shrubs, contact us to schedule a professional inspection.

The best time to water your trees is in the morning, as this reduces evaporation and maximizes absorption. When watering, avoid letting the soil become soggy, as this can lead to over-watering and can be harmful to young or established trees. Instead, soak the soil to a depth of 6-12 inches. Depending on your weather, you may need to water more often during the hotter summer months or after periods of rain.

ISA-Certified Arborists

Arborists who are ISA certified have gone through a rigorous process to prove that they have a high level of knowledge and skills in the field of arboriculture. The ISA certification exam covers areas like tree biology, disease diagnosis, and maintenance practices, as well as safety techniques. To maintain their ISA credentials, arborists must also fulfill continuing education requirements, which helps them stay up to date on the latest developments in the world of arboriculture.

An ISA-Certified Arborist can help you grow attractive and healthy trees that enhance the value of your property. They can also help you decide when a tree needs to be removed because of a health issue or structural concerns. When choosing a company to handle your tree care, look for one with ISA-Certified Arborists on staff. These professionals have a thorough understanding of the science behind tree care, which enables them to give you the best advice possible.

Trees can add considerable value to your home and create a beautiful landscape, but improperly cared for trees may cause damage to structures or vehicles, and they could be at risk of falling due to weather events. To avoid costly problems, hire an ISA-Certified Arborist to perform the tasks that are necessary for the health of your trees.

A professional with a ISA credential will be able to provide you with a detailed assessment of your trees and make recommendations that are in your best interests. They can also perform a variety of services, including pruning, planting, and moving trees. These professionals are also familiar with the specific needs of each type of tree.

The ISA credentials are recognized worldwide as proof that an arborist has met the minimum standards for excellence in his or her field. They also support high technical standards for the industry and give professional tree workers a personal incentive to continue their education.

The ISA Board Certified Master Arborist credential is the highest distinction in the industry, awarded to those who have reached the pinnacle of their profession. This is the only ISA credential that recognizes an individual’s superior knowledge and experience in all aspects of arboriculture.