Expert Advice On Preserving Trees

by JD McMains

Think back to the days of your childhood and you will probably remember a mighty oak that challenged you to climb to the very top. As you made your way higher and higher you felt there was nothing you couldn’t do. Maybe there was a tire swing that hung from the limbs of a maple tree. Seeing that tree brings back memories of the wind in your face as you soared through the air. Or perhaps there was (or still is) a shade tree that was the perfect spot for home plate, a place to build your lemonade stand, or a tranquil site to read your favorite book. And, don’t forget raking up mountains of fall leaves that you proceeded to jump into. You can preserve these memories by preserving the trees that helped make them.

Trees grow just like families do. If properly maintained, trees can add value and beauty to your home, and also reduce heating and cooling expenses. A little attention goes a long way, and a good place to start is with mulching.

Mulching - An Inexpensive and Effective Tool

Mulch comes in many different types and can be purchased at a variety of home improvement or hardware stores. According to Clemson Extension’s Home and Garden Information Center, mulch prevents water loss, reduces the growth of weeds, and blocks damage to trees and shrubs from lawn mowers and trimmers. If the mulch has a fine texture you will want to spread it two to three inches deep. Any deeper and you can cause damage due to lack of airflow. Coarser mulches can be laid up to four inches deep because air is able to move through them more freely, but be careful not to exceed the root flare. This curved part of the tree where the stalk flares out to the roots should still been seen. Any higher and you'll risk choking the tree.

Pruning Ensures Growth and Health

Pruning is another good way to preserve trees. Sometimes pruning is necessary to remove damaged limbs or disease so that it doesn’t spread. Your trees may also need pruning to maintain their shape or size. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) advises, “Pruning mature trees may require special equipment, training, and experience. If the pruning work requires climbing, the use of a chainsaw or handsaw, or the removal of large limbs, the use of personal safety equipment, such as protective eyewear and hearing protection, is a must. Arborists can provide a variety of services to assist in performing the job safely and reducing the risk of personal injury and damage to your property.”

There is a proper way and an improper way to prune trees. It is vital that American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards be followed to ensure proper growth. If the person hired to prune your trees isn't adhering to ANSI standards, they could easily inflict damage.

Help for Diseased and Injured Trees

Trees may also need treatment for insects and/or disease. Oak borers threaten oak trees, pine trees face southern pine beetles, and crepe myrtles need protection from Japanese beetles. Perhaps you live in an area where your trees are exposed to heavy winds from hurricanes or other storms. In any of these cases, a certified arborist can give you the best advice on how to treat, or better yet, prevent problems your trees might face from their environment.

Proper Thinning of Trees

Oftentimes there is a need to thin out some less desirable trees so that other trees can grow properly. Some of the large majestic oaks you see have reached their stature because they have been given room to grow. When trees grow in a forest-type back yard, they generally grow tall and skinny. This is because they are racing for the light. It is almost a story of survival of the fittest. Sunlight and the photosynthesis process are just as important for trees as the need for water and nutrients in the soil. A certified arborist can help you identify the types of trees in your yard and recommend which to thin out so that generations to come can enjoy giant oaks, maples and other stately trees.

Trees add so much to your home. From seedlings to maturity they will continue to give beauty, energy savings, and pleasure if they are properly preserved. Take a walk around your yard today to see if your trees are in need of a little TLC.

JD McMains is with J&D Tree Pros, a Cary tree removal company. If you live in or around Apex, Cary or Raleigh, NC, contact J&D Tree Pros at http://www.jdtreepros.com for tree removal, pruning and stump grinding services. © 2007, All Rights Reserved