Tree pruning: is your tree sick?
Despite your vigilance, the telltale signs are there: Your tree is full of dead branches, hasn’t developed buds even though it’s late spring, and looks a bit, well, dead. Before you call your local landscaper to take down the tree, put down the phone and take a closer look. Is your tree really dead?
Take this quick test to determine if your tree is dead or just sick: Break off a small tree branch. How difficult was it to break the branch? Did the limb snap immediately or did you have to strain? Is the inside of the limb dry as dust or is there still some moisture? Moisture means life, so if you’ve determined your tree isn’t dead, it’s probably sick. Get ready to put on your boxing gloves, because here’s how to fight tree diseases:
Stop all further maintenance. While this may seem counter to your natural instincts, fertilizing and mulching a diseased tree is highly ineffective and can even be dangerous. Most tree diseases can be combated naturally, so give your tree roots room to breathe by refraining from fertilizing and mulching. After all, the point is to let your tree heal, not to overwhelm it by encouraging extraordinary growth!
On the other hand… When you have a diseased tree on your hands, you will need to give it a little more TLC than usual. Water your tree as often as possible, as a diseased tree will have a harder time retaining moisture than a healthy tree. Also, do not cut around a diseased tree, as this will put the tree at risk of injuries inflicted by blades; hand clippers will work just as well here.
Not on plum. Diseased trees will have many dead branches; however, don’t get carried away with your pole pruner, as this will only exacerbate something bad. Prune off major dead branches, but do not cut more than ¼ of the tree’s branches.
Call the professionals. Most trees can fight disease on their own with little help from you; however, there is one disease that needs the help of a professional to defeat: Dutch elm disease. If you suspect your tree has been affected by Dutch elm, call a landscaper or arborist immediately, as this serious disease can wipe out an entire forest in a matter of months.
insect spray – along with the removal of dead branches, it is essential that there is no infestation in the tree. Make sure the tree is treated for ANY infestation, as the infestation will lead to death if left untreated.
Tree pruning and pruning – It is important that you remove dead branches, however, you do not want to scalp the tree. If you have any doubts about your ability to prune it well, call your local tree trimmer for help, the costs are negligible compared to the immediate and lasting results.
When it comes to tree diseases, prevention is better than cure. If following these expert tips hasn’t helped, don’t hesitate to call in a professional for help – your tree’s health will thank you!