TREE & LAWN CARE BLOG
The Ultimate Guide to Watering Trees: Best Practices for Nurturing New Additions
Water is essential for the growth and survival of all living organisms, and trees are no exception. Adequate watering provides trees with the necessary hydration to flourish and withstand environmental stresses. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the best practices for watering trees, helping you nurture your new additions with confidence.
How to Determine When to Water Your Trees
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the water requirements vary depending on factors such as tree species, soil type, and weather conditions. To determine if your trees need watering, you can perform a simple soil moisture test. Insert a screwdriver or a soil probe into the ground around the tree's root zone. If it goes in easily and the soil feels moist, your tree is likely adequately hydrated. On the other hand, if the soil is dry and compacted, it's time to water.
Best Practices for Watering Newly Planted Trees
Watering newly planted trees is of utmost importance, as they have not yet established an extensive root system to seek out water on their own. Follow these best practices to ensure the successful establishment of your newly planted trees:
The key to watering newly planted trees is deep watering. This involves providing a slow and steady flow of water directly to the root zone. Use a soaker hose or a drip irrigation system to apply water slowly and deeply. This method allows the water to penetrate the soil, encouraging the roots to grow downward in search of moisture. Avoid shallow watering, as it promotes surface roots that are more susceptible to drying out.
Watering Schedule
Establishing a regular watering schedule is essential to prevent under or overwatering. For the first few weeks after planting, water your tree every 2-3 days. As the tree becomes established and develops a stronger root system, you can gradually reduce the frequency of watering to once a week. Monitor the soil moisture regularly to adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Mulching
Mulching around the base of your newly planted tree has several benefits, including moisture retention. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the tree, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent rot. Mulch helps to conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Be sure not to pile the mulch against the trunk, as it can create a moist environment that encourages disease and insect infestation.
Different Methods for Watering Trees
There are various methods you can use to water your trees effectively. The choice of method depends on factors such as tree size, availability of equipment, and personal preference. Here are a few common methods for watering trees:
Hand Watering
Hand watering is a simple and affordable method that allows you to control the amount and location of water applied. Use a watering can or a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle to water the tree's root zone. Apply water slowly and evenly, ensuring that it penetrates the soil rather than running off the surface. This method works well for small to medium-sized trees.
Sprinkler Irrigation
Sprinkler irrigation is a popular method for watering large trees or multiple trees simultaneously. Install sprinklers in the vicinity of your trees and set them to water for an extended period. Ensure that the water reaches the root zone by adjusting the sprinkler heads and avoiding excessive runoff. It's important to note that sprinkler irrigation may not be as efficient as other methods, as a significant amount of water can be lost to evaporation.
Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method that delivers water directly to the tree's root zone. It involves the use of a network of tubes or pipes with emitters that release water slowly and evenly. Drip irrigation minimizes water waste and allows for precise control of water application. This method is particularly beneficial for large trees or areas with water restrictions.
Using Tree Watering Bags
Tree watering bags are a fantastic tool for efficient and convenient watering, especially for newly planted trees. These bags are made of porous material and wrap around the base of the tree trunk, providing a slow release of water directly to the root zone. The bags can be filled with water and left to slowly irrigate the tree over several hours or days. This method ensures deep watering and reduces water waste through evaporation. Tree watering bags are an excellent option for busy homeowners or those who have difficulty maintaining a regular watering schedule.
Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering Trees
Proper watering is a delicate balance, and both overwatering and underwatering can have detrimental effects on your trees. It's crucial to recognize the signs of these conditions to take appropriate action. Here are some signs to look out for:
Overwatering
Overwatering can lead to root rot, fungal diseases, and overall decline in tree health. Signs of overwatering include:
Yellowing or wilting leaves
Mushy or foul-smelling roots
Excessive canopy dieback
Algae or mold growth on the soil surface
If you notice these signs, reduce the frequency and volume of watering and improve soil drainage if necessary.
Underwatering
Underwatering can cause stress and dehydration, leading to stunted growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. Signs of underwatering include:
Drooping or wilted leaves
Browning or yellowing of leaves
Brittle or dry branches
Premature leaf drop
If you suspect underwatering, increase the frequency and volume of watering, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone.
Proper watering is a fundamental aspect of tree care that should not be overlooked. By following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure the health and vitality of your trees for years to come. Remember to consider the specific needs of your tree species, adjust your watering practices accordingly, and always monitor the soil moisture. If you have any doubts or need further assistance, don't hesitate to call a certified arborist to schedule a consultation. Happy tree watering!
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When To Worry About Tree Cavities
It is very common to see knots, cavities and splits in the trunk or branches of your trees. As your trees mature, they bring these growth scars with them. But when should you worry about a large cavity in a tree?
While we always recommend having a certified arborist evaluation on your trees of concern, there are a few factors to take into consideration when assessing the severity of this situation.
1. Size of the cavity
As long as the cavity it relatively small in size, it shouldn’t be able to compromise the trees overall health and structure. Large cavities, however, may result in weakening of the tree and ultimately tree failure. Trees with large cavities should be assessed by a tree care professional.
2. Overall health
Another thing to consider is the overall health of the tree. If it is covered with dead or dying limbs, or show any signs of pest infestations or fungi growth from the bottom up, it is less likely to survive. If you have your trees on a regular tree trimming and maintenance schedule with a local tree care company, as well as having regular tree care professional visits, the odds are much more in your favor.
3. Location of the tree cavity
Location matters when dealing with cavities in trees. If the cavity is near the base of the tree, it is at immediate risk of falling and should be assessed by a tree care professional immediately. Additionally, is the cavity is located at a branch collar or where the branch meets the trunk of the tree, it is also a fall hazard to anything underneath or close by.
Overall, tree cavities can be unsightly and raise concern but as long as they are assessed regularly by a certified arborist, it is not always necessary to remove them.
If you are concerned about a cavity in your tree, click the link below to be connected with one of our tree care professionals for immediate assistance.
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Why Is My Evergreen Turning Brown?
Evergreen trees have always been a popular species with their habit of maintaining their color in your yard throughout winter. When you see your evergreen turning brown, it can be a cause for worry.
There are a number of reasons why your evergreen might be browning including:
Summer drought - Temperature and environmental factors always play a big role in the health of your trees as well as how they survive less than ideal conditions. Drought is the number one cause for browning evergreens in Georgia.
Pests and diseases - Pests and disease bring about a bigger cause for concern, as these will involve getting help from a tree care expert. Bark beetles are the most common pests found munching away on your evergreens. Diseases such as cytospora canker disease have also been found in the area. It is important to consult with a local tree care professional if you think your tree is infected with pests or diseases.
Transplant shock - Transplant shock can affect all species of plants and trees and is usually caused by damaged roots. Most of the time, they will recover from transplant shock, but it is important to note that this can be a very long and slow process. We recommend fertilization to provide extra nutrients your tree might need to repair itself.
Can I save my browning evergreen tree?
Depending on the cause of the damage, there are a number of things you can do to save your browning evergreen tree before its too late. We always recommend having a tree care expert come out to your property to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. However, there are some things you can do in the meantime to encourage repair.
Going into dormant season (winter), is the best time of the year to get your trees on an annual pruning plan. Trimming your trees regularly provides a large number of benefits and is the standard practice in prevention.
Water
If the temperatures in your area have been on the high side with little to no rain, your trees could be browning from drought. Providing your evergreen with water regularly should keep it from browning.
We recommend fertilization during spring, so now is the perfect time to secure your spot on the list! Fertilization replenishes the soil for trees of all types and ages.
If you would like further information or to speak with a tree care expert regarding your trees click the link below to be connected now!
CALL AN ARBORIST.
3 Ways To Prep Your Trees For Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is here and now is the time to ensure your trees and home are protected from damage. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration is predicting 14-21 named storms to come our way this season. This number is far above average and we should expect winds of 111 MPH or higher. Hurricane season in Georgia starts June 1st and runs through November 30th.
How can I prep my trees for hurricane season?
Arborist inspections
The first step to protecting your trees from storm damage is to have a consultation by a certified arborist. They will be able to identify weaknesses in your trees and construct a unique plan to ensure your home and loved ones are safe from storm damage.
Proper pruning
Maintaining a regular pruning regimen on your trees is not just for aesthetics. This can help to balance out the weight by thinning the canopy, remove dead, weak or overhanging branches that could potentially cause a threat during a storm.
Cabling
When you have an ISA certified arborist come to your home to inspect your trees they will be looking for weak spots in the canopy that would be a good candidate for cabling or bracing. By strategically installing flexible steel strand cables and heavy brace rods, your tree becomes stronger. This makes them less susceptible to suddenly break during high winds.
If you think your home is in danger of storm damage from your trees, click the link below to be connected with one of our certified arborists now for a free evaluation!
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Top 3 Best Trees To Plant For Shade
When the Georgia summer heat hits, it can be brutal. Raising your monthly power bills and sucking all the moisture out of your landscape are some of the disadvantages to having a yard with full sun.
Planting a tree provides a number of benefits including:
Lower monthly power bills
Open opportunities for more plants that thrive in partly shaded areas
Raise overall home value
Provide a spot to cool off and enjoy nature
Here’s what made our list for the best trees to plant for shade.
GINGKO
Gingko trees are some of the most unique specimen on the market. They are coated with fan shaped leaves unlike any other. Their golden yellow fall color will make you take a second look. Best of all - they are some of the most pest-resistant trees you can plant.
Sun: Full Sun
Height & width: 80 feet tall, 40 feet wide
OAK
Known for their size, oak trees of all species provide substantial shade when they are fully matured. They aren’t the fastest growing trees but they are one of the most monumental.
Sun: Full sun
Height: Up to 80 feet tall
TULIP POPLAR
The tulip poplar tree is one of the largest U.S. native trees. Its name originates after the cup shaped yellow flowers. It provides optimal shade and brilliant fall color.
Sun: Full sun
Height & width: 90 feet tall, 50 feet wide
If you are looking for more information on planting shade trees in Georgia, click the link below to be connected with one of our tree care experts!
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Do I Have A White Pine Weevil Infestation?
The eastern white pine tree is characterized by its blue-green needles. It grows best in zones 3-8 and is a valuable hardy tree. Easy to grow and maintain, the eastern white pine is known for its adaptability to grow in many different conditions. However, it is susceptible to the white pine weevil.
What is the white pine weevil?
The white pine weevil is considered one of the most destructive tree pests in the U.S. It primarily feeds on the white pine but has been known to favor a few other species such as the spruce and fir. This insect is extremely small in size, averaging at 7mm in its adult cycle. They tend to gather in the leaf debris at the base of your trees in winter, to emerge in spring and attack its hosts. The damage from a white pine weevil is extensive and can escalate extremely fast. If you suspect white pine weevils on your trees, it’s important to get a tree care estimate by a certified arborist immediately.
What are the signs of white pine weevil?
Presence of adult weevils on bark
Pin sized holes
Spongy or softened areas under the bark
Wilting or drooping
How do I get rid of the white pine weevil?
Unfortunately we cannot recommend any at home treatment for this pest, as it is so destructive and must be maintained properly. An application of insecticide should be applied by a tree care specialist between March and April when drops of resin are first detected. Depending on the extent of the damage, the remaining infected portions of branches should be removed and burned to prevent further outbreak.
We recommend a regular tree health inspection by an ISA certified arborist to prevent pests and decay from taking over. Click the link below to set up a free estimate with one of our arborists and start your tree pest prevention plan today!
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How To Winterize Fruit Trees
Prevention is key in caring for fruit trees. After your fruit trees have become infested with certain diseases such as peach leaf curl, brown rot, or pests, it can be much more costly to cure the problem rather than simple prevention.
If you haven’t yet planted your fruit trees yet, its a good idea to do some research on different varieties. There are many different specimens of fruit trees that are resistant to the bigger diseases and problems such as:
Pears
Plums
Cherries
How do I prepare my fruit trees for winter?
The first step in preparing your trees for winter time is doing a good old fashioned fall cleanup. This includes removing any rotten or dropped fruit on the ground and on the trees and raking up all the leaves around the base that could be a good hiding spot for particular pests.
Next, you will want to establish, if you haven’t already, a solid maintenance tree trimming plan with an ISA certified arborist. Tree trimming in winter is vital to removing all dead and diseased branches, allowing your trees to reach their full potential next season and ward off any threats of pests entering old wounds. Be sure you have your tree trimming done in winter time, their dormant season, unless otherwise deemed necessary by an ISA certified arborist.
Finally, you can choose to spray dormant oils, a non toxic prevention method that seems to work well for apple trees, plum trees and pear trees in winter. This can help to keep common pests like aphids and scale insects away.
If you have fruit trees that could use some attention or would like more tips and tricks to provide them with the best fruit tree care in Snellville, click the link below to be connected with one of our certified arborists now!
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Signs You Might Have A Bark Beetle Infestation
There are more than 600 different species of bark beetles and over 41.7 millions acres of land destroyed from them. They are becoming more common as time goes on and date back to 1996, when the first outbreak began in the U.S. Bark beetles usually go after the weaker trees, decayed or already taken over by some sort of fungus or bacteria. They kill the trees by cutting off their food and water transport abilities.
Symptoms of bark beetles include:
Pitch tubes, reddish brown in color on the outside of the bark
Sawdust substances around bark
Woodpecker holes could indicate there are bark beetles present
Leaves and needles turn from green to reddish brown
Tree decline
Unfortunately, once the symptoms of bark beetles are noticed, it usually is too late to apply a pesticide and the tree must be removed to prevent further spread in the area. If you notice the bark beetles early on in their cycle, a pesticide can be applied by a certified Arborist that kills the adults when they land on the tree. This will prevent them from entering, laying eggs and repeating the cycle.
When applying pesticides, make sure you use a certified arborist, as these chemicals can be dangerous and cause more harm to the good and helpful insects of the tree.
If you suspect bark beetles on your trees, it is important to contact your local ISA certified arborist immediately to remediate the situation before they take over.