Tree Care Truths: What Homeowners Get Wrong

December 16, 2024

Trees are often the crown jewels of our backyards—adding beauty, shade, and even value to our homes. But taking care of them isn't as simple as just letting nature do its thing. Many homeowners unintentionally make mistakes that can harm their trees in the long run.

This blog dives into common tree care misconceptions, what homeowners frequently get wrong, and actionable tips to ensure your trees remain healthy and thriving. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a new homeowner, you’ll learn how to provide the care your trees deserve.

Why Tree Care Is More Than Just Watering

Many people believe that trees are entirely self-sufficient once they’re in the ground. After all, trees in the wild grow without our help, right? The truth is, the trees in your backyard face a very different environment from those in the woods.

Urban and suburban trees are often surrounded by compacted soil, limited space to grow, and pollutants. These factors make them more vulnerable to disease, pests, and environmental stressors. Proper tree care is essential to provide the additional support they need to thrive.

Common Misconceptions About Tree Care

Here are some widespread myths about tree care—and why they’re wrong.

Myth 1: "I Just Need to Water It Occasionally."

Watering is important, but trees need more support than just occasional hydration. Many trees suffer from overwatering or poor watering techniques.

The truth: Deep, infrequent watering is better than daily light watering. It encourages deep root growth and reduces the risk of root rot caused by standing water.

Myth 2: "Pruning Is Easy—I Can Just Trim When I Feel Like It."

Pruning often looks simple, but doing it improperly can harm your tree more than help it. For example, cutting too close to the trunk (a practice called “flush cutting”) can damage the bark and make the tree susceptible to pests and disease.

The truth: Proper pruning requires both timing and technique. Most trees benefit from pruning in late winter, but it’s essential to understand the specific needs of your tree species.

Myth 3: "Tree Stakes Should Stay Forever."

Leaving stakes tied to your tree for too long can backfire. If stakes are not removed once the tree is established, they can restrict growth and damage the bark.

The truth: Stakes should be removed after the first growing season or once the tree can stand independently.

Myth 4: "Fertilizer Will Fix Everything."

Think of fertilizer as vitamins for your tree—it’s not a magic solution for all problems. Fertilizing unhealthy trees without addressing the root cause (pun intended) may do more harm than good.

The truth: Test your soil before applying fertilizer to understand its nutrient levels. Fertilizer should only be used to address specific deficiencies.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Tree Care

1. Start with the Right Tree

Healthy tree care starts even before planting. Choose a tree species suited to your local climate, soil type, and available space. Remember, planting the wrong tree in the wrong spot often leads to problems down the line.

2. Plant Properly

Incorrect planting techniques are a leading cause of premature tree death. For instance, burying a tree too deep can suffocate its roots.

Pro tip: The tree’s root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) should be visible above the soil line.

3. Water Smart

Use the "soak and wait" method—water deeply but less frequently. A general rule of thumb is to maintain consistent moisture in the first two feet of soil.

How to check: Dig a small hole near the root zone or use a soil moisture meter to see if the area needs watering.

4. Mulch Like a Pro

Mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. However, too much mulch can smother your tree.

The right way: Apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the tree, but keep it 3–5 inches away from the trunk to prevent issues like mold or insects.

5. Know When to Prune

Pruning isn’t just about keeping branches tidy—it’s about health and structure.

Remove dead, diseased, or broken branches first.
Space out crowded limbs to allow light and air to reach the inner canopy.
Be cautious not to prune more than 25% of the tree’s foliage in a single year.

6. Protect the Roots

The roots are the lifeblood of your tree. Compacting the soil around roots by placing heavy objects like patios or driveways can suffocate the tree. Similarly, digging close to the roots can cause severe injury.

Tip: Create a “tree protection zone” where no digging, driving, or heavy foot traffic occurs.

7. Watch for Signs of Stress

Trees "communicate" through visible changes. If you spot yellowing leaves, early leaf drop, or mushroom growth around the trunk, these could be signs of stress or disease.

Regularly inspect your trees, and don’t hesitate to consult an arborist if something feels off.

The Importance of Professional Help

While many tree care tasks can be performed by homeowners, some situations require the expertise of an arborist. Certified arborists have the training and tools needed to address complex issues like disease diagnosis, pest infestations, and structural problems.

When in doubt, calling in a professional can often save you from costly tree removal later on.

Trees as Long-Term Investments

Healthy trees aren’t just an asset to your backyard—they’re an investment in your property value, your environment, and even your mental well-being. Providing them with the care they need ensures they’ll thrive for years to come.

By avoiding common mistakes and taking the time to learn proper tree care, you can enjoy all the benefits of vibrant, healthy trees—shade on sunny days, a habitat for wildlife, and a more beautiful landscape.

If you’re unsure where to start, connect with a local arborist or tree care service for advice tailored to your specific climate and trees.

JM Tree Service Douglasville

Douglasville, Georgia

770-343-4094

https://www.tree-service-douglasville.com/

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Cooling the Concrete Jungle: How Urban Trees Fight the Heat Island Effect

July 16, 2025

When summer temperatures soar, cities can become sweltering ovens of concrete and asphalt. This phenomenon, known as the urban heat island effect, causes metropolitan areas to experience significantly higher temperatures than surrounding rural regions. Fortunately, there’s a natural solution growing right above us—urban trees. At JM Tree Service Douglasville, we believe in the power of trees not only for their beauty and shade but also for their critical role in cooling our communities. Here’s how urban trees combat the heat and why investing in proper tree care matters more than ever. What Is the Urban Heat Island Effect? The urban heat island (UHI) effect occurs when buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and retain heat. Unlike natural landscapes, these materials store warmth during the day and release it slowly at night, causing cities to remain hotter even after the sun goes down. Common contributors include: Dark rooftops and asphalt Lack of vegetation High energy consumption (air conditioners, cars, etc.) The result? Increased air pollution, higher cooling costs, and serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. How Urban Trees Help Cool Our Cities 🌳 Shade Reduces Surface Temperatures Tree canopies block sunlight from reaching hot surfaces like sidewalks and streets. Shaded areas can be 20–45°F cooler than unshaded spots, making a dramatic difference in pedestrian comfort and safety. 💧 Evapotranspiration Lowers Air Temperature Trees "sweat" through a process called evapotranspiration—releasing water vapor from leaves into the air. This natural cooling effect helps lower surrounding temperatures, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 🏙️ Improving Air Quality By reducing the need for air conditioning, trees help lower fossil fuel consumption and pollution levels. Fewer emissions = cleaner, cooler air. 🌬️ Reducing Wind Speeds and Enhancing Comfort Trees act as windbreaks, making urban environments more livable and less prone to the hot, dry gusts that worsen the heat island effect. Why Tree Care in Urban Areas Matters Healthy trees are efficient trees. But urban environments can be tough on tree health due to: Soil compaction Pollution Improper pruning Limited root space That’s where JM Tree Service Douglasville steps in. Our team provides expert tree trimming, pruning, and disease management to keep your urban canopy thriving year-round. Whether you're a homeowner, business, or municipality, we help protect your green assets and maximize their environmental benefits. Planting the Right Trees in the Right Places Not all trees are created equal when it comes to heat mitigation. For long-term impact: Choose native, drought-tolerant species Plant trees near buildings for maximum shade Use a mix of canopy sizes and types for biodiversity Need help selecting or planting trees that will thrive in Douglasville’s climate? JM Tree Service can guide you with local expertise and custom solutions. The Bottom Line: Trees Are Urban Superheroes In the fight against climate change and rising urban temperatures, trees are one of our best defenses. They beautify our neighborhoods, boost property values, and most importantly—help cool the concrete jungle. Let’s build a healthier, greener Douglasville—one tree at a time. Contact Us: JM Tree Service Douglasville Douglasville, Georgia 770-343-4094 https://www.tree-service-douglasville.com/

Is Your Tree Leaning Dangerously? How to Tell When It’s a Risk

July 9, 2025

A slight tree lean might seem harmless—or even add character to your landscape—but not all leaning trees are safe. In fact, some can be serious hazards to your home, vehicles, and loved ones. If you’ve noticed a tree starting to tilt or one that has always leaned, it’s time to determine whether that tree is a picturesque quirk or a potential danger. At JM Tree Service Douglasville, safety is always our top priority. Here’s how to spot the warning signs of a dangerously leaning tree and when to call in the professionals. Common Causes of Leaning Trees Not all trees grow perfectly upright. A lean can happen naturally or develop over time due to: Uneven sunlight (phototropism) Strong winds or storms Soil erosion or poor root anchoring Root damage from construction, pests, or disease Heavy canopy weight or improper pruning Some of these causes are harmless, while others may signal structural instability. Signs Your Leaning Tree Is a Serious Risk Here’s how to tell if your tree is more than just leaning—it’s potentially dangerous: 1. Sudden Lean If a tree that once stood straight begins to lean suddenly, that’s a red flag. This often indicates root failure, especially after a storm or heavy rain. 2. Exposed or Damaged Roots Roots sticking out of the ground, heaving soil, or a lifted root plate suggest that the tree may be losing its grip in the ground. 3. Cracks in the Trunk or Base Visible cracks, splits, or bulging at the base of a leaning tree could mean internal decay or stress from the tilt. 4. Soil Shifts or Mounds If you see soil mounding on one side of the tree and sinking on the other, it’s a sign the tree is moving—and not in a good way. 5. Leaning Toward a Structure A tree that leans toward your house, driveway, or power lines should always be assessed by a tree care professional. When to Call a Tree Expert Not all leaning trees need to be removed—but some do. A certified arborist can inspect the tree, assess its stability, and recommend the safest course of action. At JM Tree Service Douglasville , we provide: Tree risk assessments Emergency tree removal Tree bracing and cabling solutions Root zone inspections Preventative tree care and maintenance Don’t Wait Until It Falls Trees can weigh thousands of pounds, and if one falls unexpectedly, it can cause serious damage—or worse. If you're in Douglasville or the surrounding area and suspect a tree on your property is leaning dangerously, don’t take chances. Contact JM Tree Service Douglasville today for a professional evaluation. We’ll help you protect your property and keep your landscape safe and beautiful. Contact Us: JM Tree Service Douglasville Douglasville, Georgia 770-343-4094 https://www.tree-service-douglasville.com/

Unwelcome Guests: How Invasive Plants Take Over Your Yard

July 2, 2025

In the lush landscapes of Douglasville, homeowners take pride in their yards—manicured lawns, healthy trees, and vibrant gardens. But there's a quiet intruder that threatens this balance: invasive plants . These unwelcome guests may seem harmless at first, but left unchecked, they can overwhelm your yard, choke out native species, and even damage your property’s ecosystem. At JM Tree Service Douglasville , we understand how invasive plants spread, thrive, and disrupt your landscaping. Here's what every homeowner should know to protect their outdoor space. What Are Invasive Plants? Invasive plants are non-native species that aggressively grow and reproduce in an environment, often outcompeting native vegetation. Because they lack natural predators or controls, they spread rapidly and can quickly dominate landscapes , forests, and gardens. Common invasive species in the Douglasville area include: Kudzu – Known as "the vine that ate the South," kudzu smothers everything in its path. Chinese Privet – This shrub spreads quickly and forms dense thickets that block sunlight. English Ivy – A popular groundcover that climbs trees and structures, weakening them over time. Wisteria (non-native varieties) – Beautiful blooms mask the aggressive root systems beneath. Japanese Honeysuckle – Fragrant but invasive, it twines around native plants and trees. How Invasive Plants Take Over Invasive species often enter yards through: Landscaping with non-native ornamentals Wind or bird-dispersed seeds Contaminated soil or mulch Neighboring properties with unmanaged growth Once established, these plants: Grow faster than native plants Consume more resources , like sunlight, water, and nutrients Reproduce rapidly via seeds, roots, or runners Outcompete and crowd out local plants and grasses This aggressive growth can alter soil chemistry , increase erosion, and create habitats that harm local wildlife. Warning Signs to Watch For Keep an eye out for these red flags: Dense vines or shrubs growing faster than the rest of your garden Native plants looking weak or dying despite regular care Trees being smothered by climbing vines Difficulty controlling or removing certain species by hand Why Professional Help Matters Tackling invasive plants isn’t as simple as pulling weeds. Many require specialized removal methods to ensure they don’t return stronger. At JM Tree Service Douglasville, we offer: Expert identification of invasive species Safe removal that protects surrounding trees and plants Preventative strategies to stop regrowth Tree health assessments if invasives have caused damage Left unmanaged, these invaders can spread beyond your yard into neighboring properties and forests—creating larger ecological problems. How to Prevent Invasive Plant Infestations Here are a few practical tips: Use native or non-invasive species in your landscaping Regularly inspect your yard for unfamiliar growth Avoid over-fertilizing, which can encourage invasives Never dump garden clippings in nearby woods or vacant lots Work with a local tree and landscaping expert to maintain healthy plant balance Protect Your Property Today Invasive plants might sneak in unnoticed, but their impact can be devastating. If you suspect your yard is under siege, don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand. JM Tree Service Douglasville is here to help homeowners take back control of their landscapes. From expert removal to long-term prevention, we bring the knowledge and tools you need to restore your yard to its natural beauty. 📞 Call us today for a free consultation or visit our website to learn more about our invasive plant management services. Contact Us: JM Tree Service Douglasville Douglasville, Georgia 770-343-4094 https://www.tree-service-douglasville.com/