Many homeowners invest a lot of time and money into landscaping, and trees are a part of the picture. There are ways to prevent future problems with your trees, including having an understanding of your soil type. You can amend soil to a certain degree when planting, but you’ll have more success if you match the tree to your specific soil type and climate zone. Good drainage is important in preventing rot and fungus, so amend heavy clay soil if possible, but planting tolerant trees will work to your advantage in the future. Testing the soil for nutrients and pH will take the guesswork out of planting, as the trees you choose have preferences, and when you’re planning your landscape designs, allow for enough space between seedlings so they can grow to their mature size, not to fill the space immediately.
When pruning, sterilize your pruning tools with alcohol or boiling water after each use to prevent the spread of any pathogens. It’s a good idea to keep your soil mulched around newly planted trees and shrubs, which not only helps retain water but also helps prevent soil-borne diseases. When you’re first planting your seedlings, water them in good until they are established and develop a healthy root system.
If this all seems too much for you, we can help. Our certified arborists can help you plan, plant, and maintain your trees for years to come. For more information on our professional tree services, please see our Tree and Hedge Planting page or call us with your questions.