Most trees are tough and can thrive with minimal help, but that doesn’t mean they should be left entirely on their own. With the right care, you can help the trees on your property stay strong, healthy, and safe year after year.
If you want to protect your landscape and get the most out of your trees, here are six simple ways to keep them in great shape.
Commit to Routine Watering
Water is a vital component of tree care, especially during dry spells or periods of high heat. You can support the long-term health of your trees by maintaining consistent irrigation that promotes deep root growth.
It’s important to adapt watering schedules based on the climate and temperature and aim to maintain steady soil moisture without overwatering. When rain is insufficient, deep watering once or twice a week can prevent dehydration—especially for young trees during their early growing season. Additionally, monitoring the soil around the root ball helps avoid drought stress and soil compaction.
Prune Unwanted Branches
Effective pruning improves a tree’s structure, aesthetics, and safety. Homeowners should prune dead or crossing branches while preserving the integrity of the branch collar, which plays a crucial role in the healing process.
Seasonal pruning reduces the risk of breakage during storms and can improve air circulation within the canopy, which limits the growth of fungus and reduces the chance of infestation. Strategic cuts also help manage the tree’s diameter and maintain a balanced form, particularly for trees growing close to homes, walkways, or utility lines.
Avoid Tree Ties and Wires
Ties may seem helpful for support, but they can cause serious harm when left unchecked. Over time, they girdle the trunk or branches and restrict the flow of nutrients and water. Rope you attached for a hammock and other purposes can also impact them.
They can weaken the bark and lead to a wound that invites disease or insect damage. If you’ve recently completed a tree planting, remove supports once the tree is stable. Leaving materials like wire or rope too long compromises the tree’s longevity and increases the risk of structural failure as it grows.
Mulch Properly
Applying mulch the right way significantly boosts tree health by conserving moisture, moderating soil temperature, and suppressing weed growth. Avoid the common mistake known as “volcano mulching,” where mulch is piled against the trunk.
Instead, spread an even layer of organic matter, such as wood chips or compost, in a donut shape, keeping the flare of the trunk exposed. This helps retain soil moisture, supports beneficial microbes, and prevents pests from nesting too close to the bark.
Monitor for Diseases
Regularly checking your trees for signs of disease is key to early interventions. Discolored leaves, premature leaf drop, or unusual growths on the bark can all indicate potential problems.
Diseases like emerald ash borer or fungal infections can escalate quickly, threatening the entire plant and nearby forested areas. Early detection and timely action can minimize risk and reduce long-term damage.
Reach Out to Professional Arborists
For complex tree care tasks or signs of serious stress, working with a certified arborist is the safest and most effective choice. While many of the aforementioned tips can be done on your own, professionals have extensive knowledge they can leverage to ensure they’re performed safely and correctly.
They understand how different species respond to local climate and weather conditions and how to protect trees from wildlife like deer or invasive species. A reputable arborist can even advise on tree-planting techniques that support healthy root systems and improve the aesthetics and value of your property.
Contact Arbor Image Tree Care Today
Need help keeping your treescape lush and beautiful? The experienced arborists at Arbor Image Tree Care have you covered.
We specialize in plant health care, tree trimming, and other services in Oklahoma City, and will make sure your trees are treated with the respect they deserve. Reach out today to learn more and schedule an appointment!