From choosing the right tree to treating it right, use the following tree care tips to help ensure your plants and property are in good hands.

The Right Tree in the Right Place

Proper tree care starts when you select a tree and what happens in its first few years of life will affect its shape, strength, and life span. Before you pick a tree, decide its purpose. Whether shade, privacy, or shade is the most important reason for planting, the purpose will affect the type of tree and where it’s planted. Here are some things to consider before picking and planting:

• Hardiness Zone. The environment you live in will impact what trees will grow best.
• Size of Mature Trees. Think of how big your tree will be before you decide to plant it too close to structures and utility wires.
• Sun and Soil. How much sun and the type of soil in your planting area will affect how your tree grows.

Mulching Around Your Tree

Mulch is a newly planted tree’s best friend. Here’s why:

• Helps insulate the soil from hot and cold temperatures.
• Retains water, keeping the roots moist.
• Helps prevent weeds and soil compaction.
• Reduces lawn mower damage.

How to mulch:

1. Add mulch around a 3 to 10 foot area at the base of your tree.
2. Layer wood chips or bark 2 to 4 inches deep.
3. Keep the mulch away from the trunk of the tree.

Watering Your Tree

In addition to sun and healthy soil, your tree needs the right amount of water to survive. Water immediately after you plant a new tree. Help it through the first few summers by providing water and covering the soil with mulch. Keep soil moist with deep watering to help with root establishment, but try not to over water. Damp soil should be allowed to dry between watering.

Pruning Your Tree

Light pruning and the removal of dead branches should be done anytime, but cutting an extensive amount of branches should only be done while the tree is dormant in the winter. Prune trees that bloom in spring when their flowers fade. Always prune with sharp shears for clean cuts to help prevent disease.

More Tree Care Tips

For more information on the best ways to care for your tree, contact the tree care specialists at Elite Tree Care. Whether you’re planting a new tree or caring for an existing one, all your questions can be answered.