DIY Tree Care: What You Can Do and When to Call a Pro
Trees are some of the most valuable assets in your yard. They provide shade, improve air quality, and even boost property value. But like any living thing, they require care to stay healthy and safe. While many tree care tasks can be handled on your own, some situations call for a professional’s expertise. Here’s how to balance your DIY efforts with the help of a certified arborist.
Why Tree Care Matters
Proper tree care keeps your trees healthy, extends their lifespan, and prevents hazards like falling branches. Neglected trees can become diseased or structurally unsound, posing risks to your property and safety. The good news? With the right knowledge and tools, you can tackle many tree care tasks yourself.
DIY Tree Care: What You Can Do
1. Watering
What to do: Newly planted trees need consistent watering. During dry spells, even mature trees benefit from deep watering.
How to do it: Water at the base of the tree, soaking the soil deeply. Avoid frequent, shallow watering, which encourages weak root systems.
When to DIY: Watering is simple and low-risk, making it a perfect DIY task.
2. Mulching
What to do: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
How to do it: Spread mulch 2–4 inches deep, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent rot.
When to DIY: Mulching is easy and doesn’t require professional equipment.
3. Pruning Small Branches
What to do: Remove dead or damaged branches, especially those within reach.
How to do it: Use clean, sharp pruning shears or a saw. Cut just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk).
When to DIY: Stick to small, accessible branches you can safely handle from the ground.
4. Inspecting for Pests and Disease
What to do: Look for signs like discolored leaves, unusual growths, or insect infestations.
How to do it: Research the symptoms of common tree diseases in your area and check your trees regularly.
When to DIY: Early detection is straightforward and doesn’t require special training.
When to Call a Pro
While DIY efforts can go a long way, some tree care tasks are better left to the professionals.
1. Tree Removal
When to call: If a tree is dead, dying, or leaning dangerously, it’s time to contact a certified arborist. Tree removal involves heavy equipment and expertise to prevent accidents.
Why it matters: Improper tree removal can damage property and endanger lives.
2. Pruning Large or High Branches
When to call: If branches are too high to reach or too heavy to handle safely, hire a professional.
Why it matters: Certified arborists have the tools and training to prune trees without causing injury or harm to the tree.
3. Treating Disease or Pest Infestations
When to call: If your tree shows signs of serious disease or pest damage, an arborist can diagnose and treat the problem effectively.
Why it matters: Professionals have access to treatments and techniques that are safe for your tree and the surrounding environment.
4. Cabling and Bracing
When to call: For trees with weak branches or structural issues, a professional can install support systems to stabilize them.
Why it matters: Incorrect installation can do more harm than good.
Research-Backed Benefits of Professional Tree Care
Studies show that routine professional maintenance can improve a tree’s health and longevity by up to 30% (American Society of Arboriculture, 2023). Arborists also identify hidden risks like root damage or decay, which may not be visible to the untrained eye. Investing in professional care when needed protects not only your trees but also your home and property.
Conclusion: Find the Right Balance
Tree care doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can handle many tasks yourself with the right knowledge and tools, but know when to call in the pros for more complex situations. By balancing DIY efforts with professional expertise, you’ll ensure your trees stay healthy, beautiful, and safe for years to come.
Sources:
American Society of Arboriculture (2023). Tree Care Best Practices.
University of Florida IFAS Extension (2023). Tree Pruning and Maintenance Guide.
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