The ideal environment for trees to grow in is one that is free from obstacles and is one where they are able to thrive without much intervention. Trees thrive in natural environments where they can grow in their natural habitat. Trees that grow in an urban and suburban environment are not as well adapted to the elements that come with city living. Growing conditions in a city environment are not as ideal for a plant, and it can require additional care and attention. As a result, it is important to be aware of the common mistakes people make when trimming their trees in Denver.

Planting too deep

Regardless of if your tree was planted last year or a decade ago, if it was planted too deeply, it may still be suffering from the effects of being too far in the ground. Tree roots do much better in shallow soil, as it allows for ample oxygen, water, and warmth. By planting your tree too deeply, it will be deprived of these elements and its growth will suffer as a result.

For planting purposes, your tree’s root flare, which is the part where the roots begin to widen, should be planted at ground level or slightly above ground to allow for optimum growth conditions. If the roots of your tree have been planted below the surface of the ground, it is recommended to excavate the area to allow for more root exposure.

Roots may also begin to grow back towards the trunk, which creates a ‘girding root’. This root can encircle the plant, causing a restriction in the movement of water and other nutrients. If you come upon a girding root, it should be carefully removed for the benefit of the tree.

Damage from equipment

In the process of caring for a lawn, heavy equipment can sometimes interfere and damage your trees. If a tree has been scrape hard enough, it can permanently damage the bark and cambium area. If the cambium layer has been damaged, it can restrict the flow of water and nutrients from the roots to the branches, which can negatively affect the overall health of the plant.

A wounded area from mechanical damage can also be an entry point for pests and diseases, and this leaves the plant vulnerable to decline. By employing a protective area of mulch around your tree, it can not only be a benefit to the soil but it can also be a constant reminder to landscapers and anyone else who make work on your yard that your tree to keep equipment away. Young trees are particularly vulnerable to damage from equipment, which can heighten the need to have some sort of barrier around them.

Over or under irrigation

Trees need the proper amount of moisture to thrive, and supplying your tree with too much or too little water can lead to poor health. The ultimate result from having improper water inputs is that your tree will not go through enough photosynthesis to stay in optimal conditions. Many gardens and properties employ automated watering systems, which can be a great way to maintain consistent watering schedules. However, this is not always perfect, as weather and plant conditions may necessitate an increase or decrease in the amount of water the plant receives.

The amount of water required depends on the specific species requirements, as well as changes in weather conditions. In this way, it is important to consider the placement of species, as you don’t want to place a tree that requires a lot of water next to a shrub that requires very little water. When placing your irrigation system, give special attention to where the water hits the tree, as you don’t want the water to be consistently hitting the trunk and leaves, as this can lead to decline of the plant.

Too Much Mulch

Having too much mulch around your tree can be a negative factor for your tree. Although the practice of volcano mulching can look aesthetically pleasing, it is harmful for the health of the tree. Volcano mulching keeps the bark moist, which can lead to fungi and pests attacking the plant.

Wood chips can be a great choice to utilize as a form of mulch. A layer of 3-4 inch high mulch can be all that is needed in order to conserve moisture and maintain the temperature of the soil.

Poor Pruning Practices

Another way in which your tree can be harmed is due to poor pruning practices. This can be when you prune too much, or make improper cuts that is ultimately detrimental to the health of the plant. Pruning not only changes the shape of the plant, it also affects how the plant will continue to grow and thrive.

Removing too much from a tree can result in poor growth and can lead to the tree being permanently damaged. Improperly trimming your tree can result in dead wood and branches that are not growing to their full potential.

It is important to employ qualified arborists who take time to prune your plant to the best shape and form, not only for the look of the plant but for the overall health of the plant. During the course of any pruning project, the general rule is that you don’t want to remove more than 25% of the crown, as this can be harmful to the tree. Your arborist should take care not to remove too many live branches, and should focus on removing the ones that are dead or are in poor decline as much as possible.

Incorrect pruning cuts can lead to your tree having a canopy that is too dense or too barren, and can make your tree look unsightly. This makes the importance of selecting an arborist who is experience and knowledgeable all the more important, as the health of your tree is something you shouldn’t take lightly. If you are in need of tree trimming services in the Denver area, contact Arbor Garden today.