What better way to celebrate Arbor Day than to show your trees some love. Here’s a little history about the day and some Arbor Day tree care tips to help ensure your plants feel special.

What is Arbor Day?

It’s a day dedicated to the care of trees. Like Earth Day, it’s a time to reflect on the power of nature and what we can do to help preserve it. Since people usually celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree, the actual date depends on the best time for planting in your area. In the Northeastern United States, spring is one of the best seasons for planting, so Arbor Day is the last Friday in April. However, Arbor Day in Hawaii is the first Friday of November and Alaskans celebrate on the third Monday in May.

Since one of the primary purposes is to encourage people to plant trees, many communities organize tree-planting and litter-collecting events around the holiday. Another popular tradition is to plant a tree in honor or memory of a loved one. Whatever the reason you have for planting, remember that native species are more likely to thrive in your environment.

Besides planting trees, you can also spend the day caring for the trees you already have. Here are some tips on how to make sure the trees in your yard are well cared for.

Arbor Day Tree Care Tips

Trees already do so much for us. They support our health with clean air and shade. They also provide our planet with a well balanced ecosystem that supports wildlife. A tree’s contributions should be recognized daily. Its health should also be considered on a regular basis. Here are some ways you can show your tree a little more love on Arbor Day and every day.

1. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and improves soil quality as it breaks down.
2. Provide adequate water, especially for newly planted trees. Deep, infrequent watering is better for root development than frequent shallow watering. Consider using a drip irrigation system to water trees slowly and deeply.
3. Regular pruning helps maintain the health and shape of your trees. Remove dead or diseased branches first and save any heavy pruning for after the tree has bloomed or when the tree is dormant in the late winter.
4. Protect young trees from damage by animals, lawnmowers, and trimmers. Use tree guards or fencing to create a barrier around the tree.
5. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer if your soil lacks nutrients.
6. Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases, including bare branches, discolored leaves, or dark growths. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious damage to your trees.
7. If you’re unsure about the health of your trees or how to care for them, consider consulting with a certified arborist. They can provide expert advice tailored to your specific trees and location.

Now’s the perfect time to contact Elite Tree Care for any of your tree care needs. Treat your tree to an expert evaluation to help ensure it’s thriving.