We find that a lot of people believe that arborists are just focussed on cutting down trees and removing branches, but our services are much more comprehensive than that. At Everwilling Tree Specialists, we are committed to delivering exceptional tree care and maintenance, with minimal impact to the environment and surrounds. For other reasons you should use Everwilling Tree Specialists, click here.
Our customers will often ask us how they too can take good care of their trees, so we’ve addressed some frequently asked tree-care questions here.
Dying leaves may indicate a sick tree
How do I know if a tree needs extra care and attention?
There are a few signs of a distressed or dying tree that you can look out for. These include dying leaves, which indicates that the tree might be shutting down in order to survive, or a reduction in the number of leaves produced. There may be dead branches as parts of the tree start to die or bark becoming brittle and falling off the tree.
Water a large tree around the drip line
How can I help the tree?
There are three main ways you can help to resuscitate a dying tree. Firstly, it is important to water the tree, as they rely heavily on water for survival. A new or growing tree can be watered around the trunk, especially if there is a watering well placed around the tree. However, it can be tricky to know where to water large or established trees due to the underground nature of trees’ root systems. These bigger trees typically have a root system that is proportional with the canopy, and the edge of the canopy is referred to as the ‘drip line.’ It is ideal to water a larger tree along the drip line.
Mulch around the trunk of the tree
Mulching is another great method of TLC for trees. Mulching around the base of a tree will help the soil to retain moisture, and improve the quality and profile of the soil. Additionally, mulch helps regulate the soil temperature, keeping it cool in warm weather and warm during cold weather. Mulch helps to minimise weed growth, which is important because weeds compete with plants for water and nutrients.
Aerate the soil using a pitch fork
Lastly, improving the soil profile can assist the tree with absorption of water and nutrients. In areas where there are poor soil conditions, gentle aeration of the soil can improve penetration and allows the soil to absorb water with ease. This can be done by poking the ground with a pitchfork or similar instrument. It will soften the dirt, allowing the water to soak in better.
The use of grey water is recommended
Can I use grey water in my garden?
Yes, grey water can certainly be used on trees, and in the garden. It is ideal that any detergents contained in the grey water be biodegradable. The use of grey water is also recommended, as it puts less strain on valuable water resources.
Should I add fertiliser?
Fertiliser encourages growth, and thus can be beneficial for young gardens. However, if a tree is looking distressed or dying, fertiliser will encourage growth that the tree cannot support. The best ways to ensure a distressed or dying tree flourishes is to add water to aerated soil, and use mulch to improve water retention.
What else should I look for in my trees?
It’s important to look for changes in foliage size, density, colour, lean or an increase in dead wood. You should also keep an eye out for any noticeable defects, such as cracks, cavities, hollows, wounds, or diseases such as fungi.
Keep an eye out for tree disease, such as fungi
Should I have my trees checked by an arborist?
If you notice any of the above changes, defects or diseases, ask the team at Everwilling Tree Specialists to inspect the tree. It is also recommended that you have a qualified arborist check your tree annually, and after extreme weather events. Everwilling Tree Specialists offer a free, no obligation hazard assessment! Get in contact with us now to arrange a visit from the team.