With the internet at our fingertips, it can be hard to distinguish what’s true or false information. In fact, there are a lot of unsafe practices out there that can be especially dangerous to trees and people around them. That’s why the ISA certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Experts would like to debunk the following Santa Cruz tree care myths to keep you and your trees safe.
Pruning Isn’t Necessary
Some people don’t think pruning their trees is necessary. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Not only does pruning promote new growth, it’s an imperative tree care practice if a tree is showing any signs of distress. At Westcoast Tree Experts, our certified arborist recommends pruning a tree if you notice any of the following:
- Excessive Growth
- Disease/Damage
- Insect Infestation
- Crossed or Rubbing Branches
- Close proximity to your home or power lines
Pruning Should Be Done Close to the Trunk
Pruning trees is an essential part of maintaining your landscape. However, pruning branches too close to the trunk of a tree can lead to disease and decay. It can also cause irreparable harm to a tree. That’s why Santa Cruz tree care professionals leave at least a couple of inches along the branch base. Pruning large, mature trees should also be left to a certified arborist who knows how to maximize a tree’s health and longevity.
Tree Topping Is Optimal
The practice of topping a tree is another major misconception. In fact, topping removes essential branches that leave a tree susceptible to disease and structurally unsound. A better approach would be a windsail reduction (crown thinning) service done by a certified arborist who can thin out any large, hazardous branches.
Trimming Should Only Be Done During The Fall
While fall/winter is the ideal time to trim your trees there are other times when this can be done. When in doubt, contact the Santa Cruz tree care professionals at Westcoast Tree Experts to determine the best time to prune your trees depending on their specific needs.
Tree Cavities Should be Filled With Concrete
Filling a tree cavity with concrete is an old practice that is no longer recommended. In fact, doing so won’t boost a tree’s health or strength. When strong winds shift a tree, the concrete portion of it will remain in place. This can lead to damage, sickness, or the need for removal.
Trees Need an Abundance of Mulch
An excessive amount of mulch around a tree won’t help it in any way. In fact, too much mulch can cause all sorts of problems. Overmulching around a tree’s base can lead to significant damage as it can cause a tree to rot from excessive moisture. Furthermore, too much mulch can force the roots of a tree to grow up, which can lead to damage and structural problems.
Trees Need To Be Constantly Watered
While it’s important to water your trees, overwatering can make it hard for them to breathe. This, in turn, can cause a tree to become sick or die because its roots have too much water and not enough oxygen. This can lead to long-term stress, root rot, or the growth of fungi.
Santa Cruz Tree Care
At Westcoast Tree Experts, our ISA certified arborist is here to ensure your trees remain healthy and beautiful. We have the training, experience, and equipment to care for your trees properly. If you have any questions or would like to receive a no-cost, no-obligation quote for any of our Santa Cruz tree care services, fill out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733 today.
