Here are 10 easy tree maintenance tips every tree lover in the UK should follow. Advice from leading Tree Surgery Glasgow experts.
Because looking after your garden has never been more simple!
1. Water Young Trees Regularly
A young tree is typically classed as any tree from 0-3 years old. As a tree ages, it becomes better at drawing water from the soil. However, young trees often need a helping hand.
It is important to check how much water your tree needs during its early years of life. It is also essential to adapt this as the seasons change.
For example, the Arboricultural Association recommends watering younger trees with 50 litres each week throughout the summer months.
2. Make Sure to Mulch
Mulch is a protective layer of material poured over soil and spread around the base of the tree trunk.
Mulching helps a tree lock in moisture and nutrients, while preventing grass and weeds from competing with the tree. This makes mulch especially helpful for giving young trees a great start to life.
The best time to mulch a tree is late spring and autumn. Since there are many different types of mulch available, make sure to choose the one that best suits your budget, your tree and soil.
3. Prune Precisely
Pruning involves carefully cutting back specific branches to promote the overall health and keep a tree looking its best. It is an essential part of tree maintenance.
By removing unhealthy, dead or diseased parts of the tree, pruning can prevent problems from escalating. It can also enhance air circulation and light penetration within the crown of the tree. This encourages the growth of strong, healthy leaves.
Thinning out the branches also reduces the risk of wind damage, ensuring that trees are more resilient during storms.
Pruning can also be used creatively, for overall tree aesthetics. For example, professional arborists use techniques like pleaching which involves careful pruning to shape trees and hedges into beautiful garden features.
Research which seasons your species of tree is best pruned in.
4. Check for Pests and Tree Diseases
Pests are not only a nuisance but carry dangerous diseases into your tree. These diseases can cause damage and may even kill your tree.
Protect your tree’s health by staying vigilant: regularly inspect leaves and bark for spots, wilting, decay, or signs of infestation.
5. Protect the Roots
The roots are the lifeline of your tree, harming the roots can shorten your tree’s lifespan. Establish a clear boundary around the diameter of your tree to prevent damage from foot traffic, equipment or vehicles.
6. Fertilise
Your tree may need extra nutrients to stay healthy. Proper fertiliser (fit for your tree’s needs) will support growth and reduce the need for corrective work. It will also strengthen your tree’s natural defences.
By carefully and selectively fertilising, you give your tree the best chance to thrive for years to come.
7. Support Young or Weak Trees
After planting, staking or bracing helps the shape of the tree and encourages upright growth.
Without support, young or weak trees may fall during extreme weather. Giving them support early ensures a strong, healthy structure as they mature.
However, make sure not to stake the tree for too long! This risks damage to the stem. Make sure to research how long is best for your tree species.
8. Don’t Drown Your Trees
Take care to avoid overwatering your trees. Older trees and shrubs shouldn’t need to be watered. However, in instances of droughts or heat waves make sure to care for your tree appropriately.
9. Regular Tree Surveys
Tree experts, arborists or tree surgeons can offer regular tree surveys to assess the health of your tree. During these surveys they can provide professional advice on how to best manage and care for your tree to ensure that it thrives.
10. Consult with the Experts
If in doubt or if an emergency arises, make sure to contact your local tree surgeons who will advise on the best practice to take for the health of your tree. They can offer a host of professional tree care services to protect your tree, as well as tree removals.
Need a tree surgeon in the Glasgow area? Contact GGM Landscaping today. As leading tree experts we have all the knowledge to care for your tree. To get in touch with us, dial 07946 322717 or email sales@glasgowgm.co.uk.