A homeowner that feels proud of his or her yard should make those acts that serve to protect a young tree part of his or her daily routine. After all, none of them demands lots of effort. In fact, each of them adds to the homeowner’s excuses for spending more time in the yard that surrounds the family’s home.
Pleasant jobs that provide a new planting with tender care
Arborist in San Jose asks homeowners to make a habit of removing any debris that has fallen in the area around the tree. Anything that will not grow in the soil gets classed as debris. Competing growth should get the same treatment as the debris. Grass and weeds are examples of competing growth.
When removing the competing growth, take the time to make certain that the soil does not get packed down in the area around the tree’s trunk. Use a shovel or hoe to loosen that soil.
Take the time to study the tree’s trunk. Can you note any sign of disease or of a pest infestation? A hole or a crack would qualify as such a sign. Be sure that no foreign objects remain wrapped in the branches or around the trunk for an extended period of time. That bit of advice applies to any holiday lights.
Collect grass clippings or wood shavings to use as mulch. Put 3 to 4 inches of mulch around the tree’s trunk. Just do not let it get too close to that same trunk. By carrying out that task, you will help the soil retain its moisture. In addition, you will help the cared-for tree absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Water your planting, as it develops the size of an average tree. Still, be certain that it does not sit in water. Also keep it from becoming the target of a constant spray of water.
Older trees need care, too
Remove dead branches whenever you find them. Do not let them fall on others or on your home’s roof.
The seeds that fall from an older tree will not hurt that plant. You can leave them on the ground, if you wish. However, if younger people can get into your yard, any one of them might collect the larger seeds, such as acorns or pine cones.
In the eyes of a teenager, any one of those objects could look like a weapon of some type, or an item that could be used to carry out a prank. Such a foolish act could not hurt any large trees, but the seed-collectors might harm some smaller plants, such a shrub or flowers. Besides, you do not want your yard to become a source of items that entice pranksters.