Trees are an important part of your garden. They provide shade and a sense of privacy and can
even add to the aesthetic appeal of your home. Managing trees in your garden can also be tricky,
especially if you need help figuring out where to start. From watering to pruning, there are
certain things you need to know to keep your trees healthy and happy.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or starting out, these four tips will give you the knowledge
and confidence to manage your trees.
1. Consult For Tree Removal
Sometimes, despite all efforts made to maintain the health of a tree, it may become necessary to
remove it. It happens in cases where the tree is dead, dying, diseased, or poses a safety hazard to
your property or people nearby.
Tree removal is a complex process that requires specialized equipment, knowledge, and
experience. It’s best to consult with a professional local arborist about tree removal.
If you live in the Sydney Area, hiring a Tree Removal Sydney company can help dispose of your
tree without damaging the property. They can also assess your other trees and provide other
options if they don’t need removal.
2. Prune Regularly
Pruning is cutting back branches and foliage to promote healthy growth and maintain the tree’s
shape. It’s essential for the health of the tree, as well as for aesthetic reasons. Here are some
expert tips for pruning your trees:
- Timing Is Key: The best time to prune trees is in late winter or early spring before new
growth begins. It allows the tree to heal quickly and prevents damage to new growth. - Use The Right Tools: Make sure you have sharp pruning shears or a pruning saw,
depending on the size of the branches you need to cut. Dull tools can damage the tree and
make pruning more difficult. - Know What To Cut: When pruning, focus on removing diseased, dead, or damaged
branches first. Then, remove any branches that are rubbing or crossing against each other.
Finally, prune for shape and to control the tree’s size. - Don’t Over-Prune: Removing too much foliage can harm the tree and make it more
susceptible to disease and pests. A good rule of thumb is to remove only 25% of the tree’s
canopy in one year.
Regular pruning is an investment in your garden’s long-term health and beauty, so pay attention
to this important task.
3. Mulch Around The Base
Mulching covers the soil around a tree with a layer of organic material, such as wood chips, bark,
or straw. It helps to protect the tree from extreme temperatures, conserve moisture and reduce
weeds.
Several types of mulch are available, including straw, bark, and wood chips. You can also use
composted organic matter as mulch if you have enough space in your garden for it to decompose.
When applying mulch, keep it away from the tree’s trunk. If the mulch is in direct contact with
the trunk, it can trap moisture against the bark, leading to rot and disease. Instead, create a mulch
ring around the tree’s base. Leave a few inches of space between the mulch and the trunk.
4. Water Properly
Watering your trees is one of the most important things you can do to help them thrive and avoid
dying. But it’s essential to understand the unique watering needs of each tree in your garden.
- Consider The Tree’s Age And Size: The age and size of a tree can affect its watering
needs. Young trees need more frequent watering than mature trees, as their root systems
still need to develop. Similarly, smaller trees require less water than larger trees. - Use A Slow And Steady Stream Of Water: This allows the water to soak into the soil
slowly and reach the roots without running off. It also helps to prevent soil erosion and
nutrient loss. - Water In The Morning: The temperatures are cooler, and the water has time to soak
into the soil before the day’s heat sets in. Watering in the evening can lead to the growth
of fungi and other diseases. - Track The Soil Moisture Level: Monitoring the soil moisture level is important to
ensure that your trees get enough water. You can do this by sticking a finger or a
moisture meter into the soil around the tree. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.
In addition to these tips, ensure that your trees have adequate access to water. If you’re using a
sprinkler system, place it nearby so the tree can reach it with its branches. When watering by
hand, use a watering wand or hose to reach the top of the tree’s canopy.
Takeaway
Following these four expert tips for managing trees in your garden can help ensure your trees
remain healthy for years. Remember to prune your trees, water them correctly, mulch around the
base, and remove them if needed. Your trees will thrive and add value to your property with
proper care.