Tree Tips
#1:
Don’t Top Trees!
Never cut main branches to stubs. Many arborists say that topping is the worst thing you can do for the health of a tree. It starves the tree by drastically reducing its food-making ability and makes the tree more susceptible to insects and disease.
#2: Use the 1/3 and 1/4 Rule of Pruning
Never remove more than 1/4 of a trees crown in a season. Where possible, try to encourage side branches that form angles that are 1/3 off vertical (10:00 or 2:00 positions).
#3: How to Make a Pruning Cut
Large Limbs:
A: Make a partial cut from beneath.
B: Make a second cut from above several inches out and allow the limb to fall.
C:
Complete the job with a final cut just outside the
branch collar.
Small Branches:
Make a sharp clean cut, just beyond a lateral bud
or other branch. #4: The Value of Mulch A tree's best friend, mulch
insulates soil, retains moisture, keeps out weeds, prevents soil compaction,
reduces lawnmower damage, and adds an aesthetic touch to a yard or street. #5: Where the Root Really Grows A: Because roots need oxygen, they
don't normally grow in the compacted oxygen-poor soil under paved streets. B: The framework of major roots
usually lies less than 8 to 12 inches below the surface. C: Roots often grow outward to a
diameter one to two times the height of the trees.
Girdling is any activity that
injures the bark of a tree and extends around much of the trunk’s circumference.
Often caused by lawnmowers and weed trimmers.
Ideally,
dig or roto till an area one foot deep and approximately 5 times the diameter of
the root ball. The prepared soil will encourage root growth beyond the root ball
and results in a healthier tree. #8: How to Plant a Bare-Root Tree It is
best to plant bare-root trees immediately, in order to keep the fragile roots
from drying out. If you can't plant because of weather or soil conditions, store
the trees in a cool place and keep the roots moist. #9: You’re Street Trees Maybe City Trees If you
live in a town or city, the trees near the street (often between the sidewalk
and street), are probably city-owned. The city should have a program for
planting and caring for these trees. Respect local ordinances as to what trees
can be planted, how to prune, etc.
#6:
Girdling Kills Trees #7:
How to Plant a Containerized Tree
