Every great landscape is composed of many different parts. Some are flashy, like landscape lighting, a new flower bed, or a polished paver patio. Others are more subtle, acting as the foundational elements of the property, creating structure in the landscape. We are talking about large plant materials, specifically trees. They are often overlooked in landscaping efforts, as popular perception is that they are self-sustaining. This is true for the most part, although the best-kept mature trees actually raise property value. On top of that great tree care can maximize the oxygen production, and the ability for trees to house wildlife. Here are 5 things to know about tree care.
Certifications Matter in Tree Care
Unlike the rest of your landscaping, you cannot skimp on tree care. If the local mom and pop does not have an ISA certified arborist on staff, avoid them. The ISA is the International Society of Arboriculture, and is the gold standard when it comes to certifying tree care professionals. Because of this, our arborist at ZebraScapes is extensively trained in tree biology, tree identification, soil science, water management, tree nutrition, and fertilization. Before you do anything tree care related, make sure you have the right guys leading the charge.
Time to Prune: Summer
The most basic tree maintenance service is tree pruning. This is the process of removing decayed or dead foliage to make room for new and healthy growth. It prevents the spread of any potentially harmful disease or pests to the rest of the tree, and allows you to give the tree a more uniform look. Pruning in Arizona is best done in the summertime for drought tolerant native and import trees.
Routine Tree Inspections
In a similar manner to lawn care, routine inspections of your trees will reveal any potential problems early enough to catch them. There are plenty of diseases that can plague your trees, and the last thing you want is to lose out on the privacy and property value increase of a great tree to an avoidable issue.
Fertilization: Species Variability
Unlike tree pruning, tree fertilization has no standard when it comes to timing. It actually depends upon the type of tree and its characteristics. However, as a general rule of thumb, any new tree installation should be fertilized. It will also need to be watered as it is established, but fertilizing gives it a plethora of nutrients to work with as it gets off the ground. Literally, and figuratively.
Using a Professional: Safety First
When it comes to tree care, there is a lot of high grade professional equipment required. Going up into the tree is no simple task, and not one that should be performed without the proper precautions. Even then, without the right training, you run the risk of severe injury, which is why tree care should be left to the professionals.
We design, build and maintain fully functioning yards that meet our clients’ needs and exceed their expectations through quality, integrity, efficiency, teamwork, and relationships. Give us a call at (928) 830-4061 today.