Common Mistakes to Avoid With Tree Care

Tree Care is the application of arboricultural methods (pruning, trimming and felling/thinning) to improve or maintain the health, structure and value of trees in our built environments (road verges, greenways, backyards and park woody vegetation). Trees provide many economic and environmental benefits. They are vital to our communities and our landscapes, contributing beauty, providing shade and oxygen and offering a habitat for wildlife. A quality tree maintenance program helps to protect the investment you have made in your property’s valuable wooded landscape.

Trees are complex living organisms, and their care requires a thorough understanding of plant biology, soil conditions, water, insects, diseases and fungi. It is also important to know how to recognize red flags that can indicate a problem with your trees, such as discolored leaves or holes in the trunk. Identifying issues early can make all the difference in saving a troubled tree and preventing a potentially costly or hazardous situation from occurring.

Choosing a qualified professional to perform work on your trees is essential. Qualified tree service professionals are trained and certified by the International Arboriculture Society (ISA). They have specialized knowledge of tree species, their environment and their requirements for growth. In addition, they have the proper equipment to perform all types of tree work. You should ask prospective tree care providers about their education, training, certification, experience and references. It is also recommended that you obtain more than one estimate before selecting a tree care provider.

Some common mistakes to avoid include:

Overwatering – Newly planted trees require water on a regular basis to ensure they get established. However, overwatering can cause root rot.

Soil conditions – Some trees prefer acidic or alkaline soil, while others thrive in clay or sand. A soil test can help you determine the best way to amend your landscape’s soil conditions to encourage healthy tree growth.

Too much pruning – Too much pruning or improper pruning can deprive the tree of the nutrients it needs to grow and survive. It can also leave the tree exposed to insects and diseases.

Unnecessary staking – Staking of newly planted trees or wind-thrown trees is often unnecessary and can hinder the natural movement of a tree’s canopy.

Using the right tree in the right place – Selecting a tree that is well suited to your climate and site conditions is the most important factor for long-term success. Avoid planting trees too close to power lines, underground utilities or buildings, and make sure you have adequate space for the full-grown canopy.

Keeping your trees healthy starts with the selection process and continues with proper planting and ongoing maintenance. Make a habit of checking in on your trees regularly, especially after a storm or damage. Over time, you will become familiar with the unique appearance and behavior of each of your trees, noticing changes that may signal a potential problem. Then, you can take action and schedule an inspection with a qualified professional.

from Treby Tree Services https://trebytreeservices.wordpress.com/2025/06/22/common-mistakes-to-avoid-with-tree-care/