So, you’ve put up a new tree in the yard. It’s an exciting time! Of course, this begs the question: what now? You want to make sure that your trees are in the best position to be healthy and thriving, but a freshly planted tree requires thorough care. Don’t worry, this doesn’t need to be complicated!
You can give your trees a healthy and prosperous start by following these five tree care tips & techniques from Sam’s Tree Service! With these expert tips on proper care for newly planted trees, you can help ensure that your trees get the tree service Santa Rosa that they need to thrive!
1. Proper Mulch Application
When it comes to proper tree mulching techniques, you first want to maintain a distance of one to three inches between your mulch and the tree’s trunk. Mulch should not be heaped up against your tree since this might lead to rot caused by excess moisture at the root crown (where the tree’s trunk & root ball meet). Wood rot, degradation, and eventually, the tree’s death might result from this.
Second, your mulch should be spread as close as reasonably possible to the tree’s drip line, which is the ground under the furthest-reaching limb. This will enhance the plant’s capacity to take in soil moisture and nutrients.
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2. Using the Right Fertilizer
If you want your tree to have solid and spread-out roots, you should not fertilize it for the first couple of years of its’ life. During these first few years, fertilizer often has little beneficial effect on the roots. Waiting to fertilize your tree allows it to establish a solid root system as it seeks nutrients deeper and wider into the ground.
Instead, consider using organic mulch, which also functions as a slow-release fertilizer and is a better option. There is some debate about whether or not it is beneficial to introduce mycorrhizal fungus to the soil when you plant your tree.
3. Reduce Tree Size Cautiously
For the first few years following planting, very little, if any, pruning should be done. Only remove branches that are diseased, damaged, or dead. Low forks in your tree will need to be removed to prevent the trunk from further splitting.
As the tree matures, it may be trained into a “shade tree” shape by removing lower side branches from the box. Take time to learn the proper way to prune your tree and remember to never remove the collar when cutting a branch away from the trunk. The collar is slanted section nearest to the trunk.
Need some assistance with your tree care? Consider getting professional tree trimming/pruning services near you!
4. Get Some Quality Tree Time In
Keeping a close check on your new tree is the most critical thing you can do after its’ initial planting. Diseases are likely after planting a new tree, so keep an eye out for signs your tree might be suffering from illness, like wilting or yellowing leaves, branch dieback, or an overall common causes of these are transplant shock and drought.
Also, verify that the earth is neither shifting nor the roots growing upward. Although the tree will need less attention during the first few years as it becomes acclimated to its new home, regular checks are still recommended. So take a walk around your property, enjoy a coffee or picnic outdoors, and get some quality tree time!
5. Be Vigilant About Inspecting for Pests
Insects and diseases are significant threats to newly planted trees and should be looked for whenever trimming or pruning your tree. Any insect or animal that causes damage to the tree’s leaves or trunk between late winter and early summer should be considered a significant threat. Loopers, also known as inchworms, bagworms, or other spring-feeding caterpillars, are all potentially harmful insects.
In addition, anthracnose, leaf rust, and fire blight are just a few of the diseases that need to be monitored. These infections can weaken a young tree, making it more susceptible to environmental stressors. If you notice any issues, take prompt action with organic treatments or consult a tree care professional to prevent further damage.
Get Expert Tree Services from Your Local Experts at Sam’s!
A little attention to mulching, fertilization, pruning, and pest control can go a long way in ensuring your new tree’s long-term success. Remember, the early years of a tree’s life are crucial for establishing strong roots and resilience against environmental stressors.
If you ever need expert guidance or professional tree care services, Sam’s Tree Service is here to help! Our team of skilled arborists specializes in tree health, trimming, pruning, pest control, and overall maintenance.
Contact Sam’s Tree Service today or give us a call at 707-293-6930 for top-rated tree services in Santa Rosa and let’s keep your landscape thriving!
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