"Love is like a tree, it grows of its own accord, it puts down deep roots into our whole being."

Trees need to be protected from, well, people! Trees in our neighborhoods contribute to the quality of our lives while promoting health and they make our communities more livable. Urban trees clean our air, cool and shade our homes, and increase the value and aesthetics of our properties. If your trees had the opportunity, would they move to your neighbor’s yard because they are not being well taken care of? 

Your trees need and deserve regular maintenance.  Not sure where to start when it comes to tree care or maintenance? Here are some tips that can help you keep your trees healthy and well-maintained, keeping your property beautiful and safe, no matter what the season is. Learn more about how proper tree care can prevent you from becoming your tree’s worst enemy.

Understand what your tree needs.  Each variety of tree requires care, but the kind of care it needs can vary. Research the tree varieties in your yard and figure out how much water it needs, what it may be sensitive to, and if it’s drought resistant.

Fertilize:  As needed, fertilize your trees in the spring and fall. If you have beds and/or lawn around your trees, the fertilizer you apply to them may also take care of your tree. Tree roots are particularly sensitive to the salts in chemical fertilizers so its best to use a good organic fertilizer. NOTE: Never use “weed & feed” fertilizers near your tree.  

Keep tree roots protected. Healthy tree roots are required for healthy trees. Make sure the soil around it is not compacted, as this can obstruct the water and oxygen that is necessary for the roots. 

Water well.  Watering a new tree on a regular basis is critical to the health and survival of your tree. Watering rates will depend on the weather and soil conditions, from once a week during the winter to daily during hot and dry weather. Water slowly and deeply to ensure the water reaches the whole root ball and surrounding soil. As your tree becomes established the rate of watering can be reduced, but supplemental watering is critical for the first year. Pay close attention during times of drought. Do not rely only on sprinkler systems.  Deep watering with a soaker hose or bubbler attachment is best. Avoid overwatering if the soil has poor drainage.  

Prune.  When first planting a young tree, prune only torn or broken branches, co-dominant leaders and narrow crotch angles. Do not prune terminal leaders or branch tips. Never prune the lower branches of a young tree. Lower branches are left on the trunk of the tree to manufacture food (through photosynthesis) for the tree. Studies have shown that unpruned trees establish faster and have a stronger root system than trees pruned at the time of planting.  Pruning also invites air and sunlight into the branches, which can save a tree from diseases and other problematic conditions.   

Prune to shape a tree after 2-3 years when it is established. Regular pruning can significantly improve the beauty and health of a tree. However, improper pruning can cause long-term problems. Thus, it is best to consult a professional or research the subject thoroughly before proceeding