1. Take the adult form of the tree into consideration

This step is extremely important. You need to know how big the mature form of the tree you are planting will be. This knowledge would help you take the space it will occupy into consideration and plan ahead for it. Adequate space should be left between the tree and the structure it will shade. Keeping it too close to it might end up damaging the structure and pruning might not be a probable solution since branches of the tree might fall on the structure and damage it.

Another adverse effect of keeping a tree too close to the house is that due to the extensive nature of some roots, they may damage the foundation of the building, patios, driveways and sidewalks. Also consider the height and location of power lines, since some shady trees will grow to that height.

There are also some factors that determine the health of the tree such as weather condition, soil conditions, regional diseases and pest, and other determinants. It will be a really good idea to contact an experienced arborist or local nursery to help you with the list of trees that would thrive in your environment.

2. Ensure you are digging the right hole

It is important that you consult the appropriate agency that would tell you the appropriate place to plant your trees. You will get all the information you need when you contact 811. There is underground utility located all around and you could mistakenly hit it which might cut off the power to your house, you could fatally injure yourself or incur some hefty fine from the utility company.

A professional locator would be sent to you by the concerned utility company once you call 811 and this process takes only some days. Go to 811.com to learn more before digging a hole that could land you in trouble.

3. The depth and width of the hole should be noted

People usually dig holes that are too narrow or too deep and this has an adverse effect on the growth of the plant. Oxygen would not reach the root if the hole is too deep. The root will not be able to hold the ground firmly if the hole is too narrow.

You need to maintain the same depth of soil that the tree was originally planted in when transplanting the tree to its permanent location. Ensure the width of the hole is 3 times the root ball’s diameter, or if it is a bare root tree, 3 times the root’s spread. This will leave space for the root to fully develop and anchor the tree properly.

Put the ball in the hole and then, let the tree face the direction you want it to. Gently refill the hole and ensure that you don’t over fill it. Anchors can be used to hold a newly planted tree until the root is able to perform that function.

4. Mulching a newly planted tree

Weeds competing for nutrients and water will grow beside the newly planted tree, and this might adversely affect the tree. Inhibit the growth of competitors by adding mulch to the surroundings of the plant.

Trees naturally fight off competition by mulching their environment every fall. Mulching is very crucial to the growth of the tree and it ensures that water, nutrients and moderate soil temperature are available to the plant.

Mulch should not be too close to the trunk of the tree. Mulching also keeps rodents and other small animals from burrowing or nesting near the tree base. Also, Using organic mulching offer more benefits than inorganic mulching.

5. Retain water by building dirt dam

Almost all trees depend on water. Therefore, you must do everything possible to give them enough of it. You can retain water near the tree by creating a circular dirt dam. Water the tree at its early stages and during droughts. Ensure the root is dry before you water the tree again. The amount of water you should give to your tree should be between 5 and 15.

The Benefits of Proper Tree Care

Trees offer beauty and protection to your property. It offers freshness to your environment during summer and also increases the value of your property. It might also save you on some of your energy bills.

The benefits of trees are numerous and enticing, however, it is necessary that you fully understand everything about tree planting before you go ahead with it. If you follow the steps given above, your tree would put a smile on your face after you have seen the rate at which it is growing.

If you, however, encounter any problem along the way, seek help from a local arborist, garden or tree care professional center.

Caring for plants includes fertilizing, pruning, and the occasional pest control. At toddsmariettatreeservices.com we perform the aforementioned spring tree services to ensure the health of your trees. Discover the proper care that may need to be performed to your trees and landscape this spring.

Spring Pruning

The concept of “spring cleaning” can extend to pruning off the frost damage from your trees and plants, which could be caused by harsh winters. Spring is when you take your garden and prepare it or summer by getting rid of the deadwood and any other unwanted pieces of landscaping. This reduces the damage that can be caused to new landscaping.

Fertilize Your Soil

Make sure you apply fertilizer when your plants need it and when they are ready to absorb all the nutrients through their roots. Be smart about when you apply it, applying at times that coincide with proper soil moisture and active root growth.

It’s best to fertilize your trees and shrubs during early spring, followed up by an application of light fertilizer early in the summer; assuming that the conditions are right for a growing plant (agreeable temperatures and good soil moisture).

You should avoid fertilizing your shrubs and trees if they have been stressed because of the drought of summer months. If there isn’t enough water for your plants, then don’t fertilize them at all as they won’t be able to absorb the nutrients in the fertilizer.

Pest Control

One of the first and most obvious signs something is wrong with your tree is damage to the stem and leaves. This could be an indication of an infestation of insects. Spring is when it becomes most apparent that trees have been infested or damaged by pests.

One of the most effective ways to control pests is to start by choosing the right plants. As you are designing, buying, or replacing your landscape plants, pick up plants that are more resistant to pests and infestations.

Secondly, you need to closely inspect the landscape plants and trees weekly to check for signs of pest problems as they continue to grow. Keep in mind that some mites and insects are minute and often hide on the underside of leaves. You need to pay very close attention and give a thorough inspection to notice and solve these pest problems.

Get Your Landscape Ready for Spring

Having a healthy lawn is more than just something good to look at. A healthy lawn keeps the environment healthy too. Trees and plants absorb plenty of carbon dioxide and release lots of oxygen. Trees are also good for the environment because they reflect the sun’s rays through transpiration of water. Finally, trees and plants prevent corrosion by keeping soil in place.

Spring is the when Mother Nature “springs” back to life, and all the trees and flowers come back into full bloom. It’s also the time of year when homeowners know they need to act to ensure that their trees and landscapes stay beautiful for another year!