What are the best practices for maintaining my trees to ensure their good health??

Keeping your trees healthy is all about consistent care and a little seasonal attention. Here’s a solid game plan to help your trees thrive:

🌳 Tree Health Essentials

• Water wisely: Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth. Young trees need more frequent watering, while mature trees can go longer between drinks. Early morning or evening is best to reduce evaporation.

• Mulch mindfully: A 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch (like wood chips) around the base helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Just keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

• Prune with purpose: Prune dead, diseased, or crossing branches—ideally in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This improves airflow and reduces the risk of disease.

• Feed the soil: Healthy soil = healthy trees. Test your soil every few years and amend it with compost or fertilizer if needed. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can do more harm than good.

• Watch for pests and disease: Keep an eye out for unusual leaf color, wilting, or fungal growth. Early detection is key. If you're unsure, a certified arborist can help diagnose and treat issues.

• Protect the roots: Avoid compacting the soil around the base of the tree—no parking cars or piling heavy materials nearby. Roots need air and space to grow.

• Storm prep: Trim weak or overextended branches before storm season to reduce the risk of breakage.