Mature Tree Care
Learn procedures specific to a routine maintenance program for mature tree care, including tree inspection, mulching, fertilization, pruning and tree removal.
By TreesAreGood®
International Society of Arboriculture
Tree Care is an Investment
A healthy tree increases in value with age and pays big dividends by increasing property values, beautifying surroundings, purifying air, and saving energy by providing cooling shade from summer’s heat and protection from winter’s wind.
Regular Maintenance
Trees in the city or near houses need regular maintenance. An effective maintenance program, including regular inspections and necessary follow-up care, can identify problems and correct them before they become damaging or fatal.
Tree Inspection
Regular tree inspections can detect changes in a tree’s health before a disease, insect, or environmental problem becomes too serious. Mature trees should be inspected at least once a year to assess for characteristics of tree vitality.
Growth Reduction
Growth reduction is a fairly reliable sign that the tree’s health has recently changed. An experienced arborist can look at twig growth from past years to determine whether there is a reduction in the tree’s typical growth pattern.
Tree Stability
There are some characteristics that can indicate structural weakness. These include cavity opening, extensive twig dieback, and the presence of fungal conks (mushrooms or brackets on the trunk). Report your findings to your local tree care professional for treatment options.
Pruning
Pruning is often desirable or necessary to remove dead, diseased, or insect-infested branches and to improve tree structure, enhance vitality, or reduce risk. Removing live branches creates a lasting wound; therefore, no branch should be removed without a reason.
Pruning Large Trees
When pruning requires climbing, the use of a chain or hand saw, or the removal of large limbs, personal safety equipment is a must. Arborists can assist in performing the job safely and reducing the risk of personal injury and damage to your property.
Soil Management
Soil tests are generally required before fertilizing or adjusting pH. Urban trees often exist in soils that lack the nutrients, pH, drainage, or space needed. An arborist can get your soil tested at a soil testing laboratory and recommend treatments based on the results.
Mulching
Mulching can reduce environmental stress by providing a root environment that has fewer temperature and moisture extremes than the surrounding soil. It reduces competition from weeds or grass and prevents mechanical damage by keeping lawn care equipment away from the trunk.
Removal
Although tree removal is a last resort, there are circumstances when it is necessary. Professional arborists can help decide whether or not a tree should be removed and they possess the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently remove trees.
Visit TreesAreGood.org for more information and free, downloadable brochures.
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