9 Myths about Tree Care from a Certified Arborist
9 Myths about Tree Care from a Certified Arborist
Many homeowners love to have trees on their properties but have little to no knowledge of the care needed for their trees. In most cases, some information on tree care people gather is founded on misconceptions and myths. Here are 9 Myths about Tree Care from a Certified Arborist
1. At the time of planting, securely stake your trees.
Although you may need to stake a tree to encourage its establishment and help to keep the tree upright, there are several adverse effects of staking a tree. For instance, the wires or ties used to stake the tree could damage the tree trunk. If anything, compared to staked trees, unstacked trees grow more extensive root systems and better trunk tapers.
2. Wrap newly planted trees with tree wrap.
Researchers have found that tree wraps, in some cases, aggravate the damage caused to a tree by extreme temperature fluctuations. Also, tree wraps are wanted in the prevention of insect entry.
3. Paint over pruning wounds with wound dressings
Painting over a pruning wound with wound dressing slows down the healing process and closure of a pruning wound.
4. Top a fast-growing but weak-wooded tree.
Topping a tree accelerates the growth of twigs below the cuttings. However, this accelerated growth of many shoots eventually contributes to the development of branches with weak attachments. Consequently, the tree will be more hazardous to the landscape.
5. Trees that are pruned early in spring bleed and develop health problems
While it is true that some certain tree species, such as birches and maples, will bleed after pruning, the bleeding is inconsequential and will not harm the tree in any way.
6. The top of a tree is a mirror image of its root system
In actuality, the root system of a tree is often extensive and can extend to distances as large as twice or thrice the spread of the tree crown.
7. Prune the tree crown back in the event of root loss.
Studies have shown that a tree might lose some of its branches after significant root loss or damage. However, instead of pruning the tree crown, allow the tree to decide which branch or branches it will lose to self-repair.
8. The more water, the better for the tree
It is essential to water your trees, especially during the drought season. However, over-watering a tree can lead to root rot.
9. Place the tree fertilizer deep into the soil to reach the roots.
The absorbing roots of a tree are usually in the first eight inches of soil. Therefore, avoid placing fertilizer more than 12 inches deep.
Do you want to get accurate information on how to care for your trees? Contact us at Johnson Ops Tree Care at 608-526-6297. Johnson Ops serves throughout the Coulee region including La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Sparta, and Black River Falls.
