Three Things That Can Lead Toa Hazardous Tree
Trees provide a lot of value to your property, but they can also be a concern. Falling trees or dropping branches can cause major property damage or a serious injury. Unfortunately, many homeowners unknowingly put their trees into hazardous situations. Know the following mistakes so that you can take steps to avoid them.
#1: Skipping annual trims
Most mature trees in a home yard have a relatively balanced and full shape that may seem to need very little pruning. Although shaping isn't necessary, managing potentially hazardous branches is still required. As a basic rule, any dead or damaged branches should be removed so they don't crash down unexpectedly. Crossed and rubbing branches should also be removed, as well as any branches that rub and scrape against another tree or a building. By removing these proactively in early spring each year you can prevent many of the hazardous situations that can occur with a landscape tree.
#2: Preventing healthy root development
No one wants a full grown tree to come crashing into their home during a windy storm. This can often be prevented by allowing the tree to develop a deep root system when it is young. First and foremost, trees need to be able to move and sway in the wind, particularly in the first couple of years after planting, as this encourages the tree to put out deeper roots. Avoid staking a tree too tightly so that the trunk is completely rigid in the wind. Shallow watering can also prevent deep roots, since the main roots will stay near the soil surface where the moisture is. Instead, water your trees deeply but infrequently so that they must send out a deep taproot to seek out ground moisture.
#3: Damaging the trunk
Minor trunk damage can become a major hazard if disease, fungal, or pest organisms are able to move in through the damaged bark. In the yard, trunk damage is often a result of mowing or other mechanical lawn care devices. Clear the grass from around the trunk and install mulch so there is no need to mow or weed trim near the trunk. Avoid attaching items to the trunk with nails or screws, as well. Even ropes should be used cautiously, as they can rub off the bark if you don't pad them.
For more help in preventing or removing a hazardous tree, contact a tree service in your area.
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