In most properties across America, some of the most important features are the trees that have stood tall for generations. For so many reasons, we love to live surrounded by beautiful trees that provide shade, shelter, and beautiful views. We try to return the favor by keeping our trees free of pests and disease, repair damage, keep the root systems healthy and prune them to encourage healthy growth. However, all of these projects are time-consuming, arduous, or even dangerous. It’s important to form a partnership with trusted tree experts who can take care of your trees. Here’s how a Highland Park and Northbrook, IL tree service can take care of your trees this spring.
Assessing & Repairing
Winter can take a serious toll on any living thing in your landscape, even the biggest and sturdiest trees. Abnormal amounts of snowfall can snap branches due to the weight of the snow; and when a major limb breaks, it’s considered a serious injury to the tree. Broken limbs should be safely removed by a tree service professional, not only to prevent the limb from falling onto someone but to prevent disease or pests from entering through the wound.
Tree experts will also note any signs of pests or disease that need to be addressed, and use the right methods and products to treat the problem. For example, a tree may need to be wrapped, or sprayed with a pest deterrent: and both of these should be done by a specialist.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential task of tree maintenance. It’s the systematic removal of some of the growth from the tree to encourage growth and to provide an attractive shape. Too many buds or branches close together can actually inhibit growth in that area. Trees spread their water and nutrients to the new growth, so it’s important to use pruning as a strategy that chooses the areas in which to promote growth. After the light damage from the pruning is repaired by the tree, it will emerge rejuvenated and healthier.
In the case of pruning to remove damaged limbs, the procedure should only be done when there is visible growth (i.e. not in winter), and great care must be taken to prevent removing too many living limbs, or the tree will go into shock.
Unfortunately, sometimes a tree’s growth needs to be curbed as it starts to affect the home or the property. A branch may grow too low and impede foot or car traffic. A low-hanging branch that sits over a sidewalk violates municipal code and can incur a fine. Branches that rub against the roof can cause damage to roofing shingles. Pruning can take care of these circumstances.
Any pruning that requires climbing a tree or using specialized equipment, should be done by a professional arborist.
Fertilizing and Watering
Trees are expert organisms at obtaining their own nutrients and water, but sometimes they need a little help. Tree service professionals can determine whether a tree is struggling because of a lack of access to nutrients and water. Certain fertilizers can help stimulate growth in a tree and watering using a drip irrigation system can rejuvenate an ailing tree.
A tree professional can advise you on which lawn care products are suitable for use around and under trees. For example, many herbicides used to prevent weeds in lawns are highly toxic to trees and shrubs.
Related: Have You Ever Used A Tree Service? What To Expect In Buffalo Grove And Northbrook IL Areas
