Your backyard oasis deserves to thrive, but sometimes, even the best intentions leave us facing tree troubles. Here are some common problems arborists encounter in homeowner’s yards, and when their expertise can save the day:

Planting Pitfalls:

• Wrong Tree, Wrong Place: Choosing trees unsuited for your climate, soil, or space leads to stunted growth, disease susceptibility, and potential property damage. An arborist can recommend the perfect fit for your unique landscape.
• Planting Too Deep: Burying the root flare (base of the trunk) suffocates roots and weakens the tree. Arborists know the proper planting depth for each species.
• Improper Mulching: Volcano mulching (piling mulch around the trunk) traps moisture and invites pests. Arborists advise on the correct mulching technique for optimal tree health.

Pruning Blunders:

• Topping: This barbaric practice removes the main leader, disfiguring the tree and inviting decay. Arborists advocate for proper pruning techniques that promote healthy growth and structure.
• Over-pruning: Excessive branch removal weakens the tree, reduces flower and fruit production, and exposes it to sun damage. Typically, you shouldn’t remove more than ¼ of the foliage from a tree, but if more needs to go, then speak with your Arborist about trimming back the tree over the course of years instead of days. Arborists know how much and what to prune for each species and purpose.
• Improper Timing: Pruning at the wrong time can stress the tree, making it vulnerable to disease and pests. Arborists can advise you on the optimal pruning window for different tree types.

Man-Made Problems:

• DIY Disaster: Putting up that swing set, or building that tree house is all fun until branches start falling. Any rubbing rope can cut the bark or strangle a tree as it tries to grow over it. Drilling into a tree without first cleaning the drill or screws can also lead to bacterial infection for the tree. Before em-bark-ing on any project concerning a tree, give your arborist a call to make sure you do it right, or that they can safely do it for you.
• Bumping Around: Trees are susceptible to infection in their wounds, just like people, and oftentimes people are the ones wounding the trees. Watch out for scrapes on the trunk or exposed roots of your trees from cars, lawn mowers, or weed-whackers Putting a light circle of mulch or pine straw around the tree is not only beneficial to the tree’s roots, but also reminds people to not get to close and potentially cause damage.
• Ignoring Early Signs: Waiting until problems escalate makes treatment more difficult and expensive. Arborists encourage regular tree inspections to catch issues early.

Root of the problem:

• Soggy Bottom: Too much water in the soil can lead to root rot or even draining the soil of its minerals. Examine where the water travels on the ground when it rains and where it collects. Where is your yard still soggy the day after? Make sure that Arborists can assess the damage and recommend treatment or removal if necessary.
• Wet Leaves: If your tree does not get adequate sun after morning dew, rain, or when your sprinkler system goes off, all of that moisture will remain on the leaves, and wet leaves invites all sorts of disease. Make sure your trees receive adequate sunlight to dry off, especially in the morning, even if that means removing branches above them, or turning your sprinkler heads a different direction.
• Compacted Soil: If you are building or renovating your house, there is a chance that heavy equipment has been rolling around your yard, which could compact the soil the tree roots are trying to grow in. Compacted soil prevents roots from moving to gather water and nutrients, and may need to be excavated or aerated by a PHC Professional.

Remember, an arborist is not just a tree surgeon; they’re a tree healthcare professional. By seeking their expertise early on, you can prevent small problems from becoming major headaches and ensure your trees remain healthy and safe.