Trees are a vital part of our ecosystem. Not only do they provide us with oxygen and help to regulate the climate, but they also filter out pollutants, provide habitat for wildlife, and increase property values. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths about trees and the care they need to stay healthy. Here are the top six myths about trees and tree care debunked.
1. Trees Are Indestructible and Can Take Care of Themselves
While trees are incredibly resilient, they still require care and attention to stay healthy. Pruning, pest management, and mulching are all essential for tree health and longevity. Pruning is essential for the health and structural integrity of trees. It helps maintain their shape, improves foliage growth, reduces disease susceptibility, prevents overcrowding, and makes them look more aesthetically pleasing. However, it’s important to remember that pruning must be carried out by a qualified arborist to ensure that it’s done correctly and safely.
2. All You Need Is Water to Make Your Trees Grow Faster
Although water is essential for tree growth, there are a few other key elements that you should also consider. Soil quality and fertility, sunlight exposure, and protection from wind, storms, and other environmental hazards all play an important role in supporting healthy tree growth. Making sure your soil has the necessary nutrients to help boost your trees’ health is especially important, as nutrient-deficient soil can lead to stunted growth and even death.
3. Unless a Branch Is Dying, It Should Be Retained
Just because a branch isn’t dead or obviously troubled doesn’t mean it should be retained. If a branch is too close to a sidewalk, street, or powerlines, it should be removed. Additionally, pruning for aesthetics helps create more attractive tree forms and promotes better air circulation, which increases sunlight exposure and allows foliage to reach its full potential.
4. All Trees Are Equal When It Comes to Care Requirements
Different species of trees have different care requirements. For instance, some tree species require more frequent pruning than others, while some need greater protection from pests and diseases. Knowing what kind of tree you’re dealing with and its specific needs are essential for providing the best possible care.
5. All Trees Can Be Saved
Unfortunately, in some cases, a tree may be beyond saving if it’s severely damaged or diseased. In such cases, it’s important to contact a tree service company to evaluate the situation and determine the best action. Never attempt to remove a tree yourself because doing so puts you and your property in danger.
6. Mature Trees Don’t Need Support
No tree is indestructible; even mature trees may need some support to ensure their longevity. Trees with large canopies or leaning trunks can benefit from cabling and bracing, which helps strengthen weakened branches, reduces the risk of breakage or uprooting, and improves the tree’s overall structure.
Don’t let myths about tree care stop you from taking care of your trees. If you’re in Boulder, CO and need help with trimming and pruning, cabling, removal, or any other emergency tree services, contact Roots Up Tree Company today.
