Tree Care Truths: What Homeowners Get Wrong
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.
Contact Us:
JM Tree Service Douglasville
Douglasville, Georgia
770-343-4094