Top Tree Care Mistakes to Avoid for a Thriving Landscape

tree care mistakes

Trees are the lifeblood of any landscape, adding beauty, shade, and even increasing property value. But trees – especially young ones – need proper TLC to ensure they remain healthy and vibrant. Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that can harm their trees and lead to an unsightly or even dangerous landscape. In this blog post, we will discuss the top tree care mistakes to avoid, so you can maintain a thriving landscape for years to come.

1. Improper Watering Techniques

Overwatering

One of the most common tree care mistakes is overwatering. While it’s essential to keep your trees hydrated, too much water can lead to root rot, bug proliferation, and other diseases. To avoid overwatering, make sure you understand the specific watering needs of each tree species on your property. Generally, trees need about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. Be sure to water deeply and infrequently, rather than shallow and often, to encourage deep root growth.

🌱Did You Know? A strong, deep root system anchors the tree securely and allows it to access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers, enhancing its ability to withstand environmental stresses such as drought and strong winds.

Underwatering

Just as overwatering can cause problems, so can underwatering. Trees that don’t receive enough water are more susceptible to pests and diseases, and can even die from drought stress. Check your trees’ soil regularly to ensure it’s moist but not waterlogged. If your area is experiencing a dry spell, be sure to provide extra water to your trees, especially during the hot summer months. Using mulch around the base of your trees can help retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

2. Incorrect Pruning Practices

Over-pruning

Over-pruning is another common tree care mistake. Removing too many branches at once can stress the tree and make it more vulnerable to disease and pests. As a rule of thumb, never remove more than 25% of a tree’s foliage in a single pruning session. Additionally, avoid “topping” or cutting back a tree’s main branches, as this can lead to weak, unstable growth.

Improper Pruning Cuts

Making improper pruning cuts can also harm your trees. When pruning, always cut just outside the branch collar – the slightly swollen area where the branch connects to the trunk. Cutting too close to the trunk can damage the tree’s bark and expose it to infection. Conversely, leaving a large stub can also lead to decay and disease. Remember to use sharp, clean tools when pruning to prevent the spread of disease and to make clean cuts that heal more quickly.

Pruning at the Wrong Time

Timing is important when it comes to tree pruning. Pruning at the wrong time of year can put your trees at risk for disease or hinder their growth. Generally, the best time to prune most trees is during their dormant season, typically late winter or early spring. However, some species may have specific pruning requirements, so be sure to research the best time to prune the trees in your landscape.

3. Neglecting Pest and Disease Control

Ignoring Signs of Pests or Disease

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is ignoring signs of pests or disease in their trees. Early detection and intervention are crucial to preventing these issues from becoming severe. Look out for signs like discolored or damaged leaves, oozing sap, and holes or tunnels in the bark. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a professional arborist for advice on treatment options.

🦟 Did You Know? Pests are harmful to trees as they can damage their leaves, bark, and roots, weakening the tree’s overall health and ability to grow. Furthermore, some pests can transmit diseases or create entry points for pathogens, which can lead to severe infections or even tree death.

Overusing Chemical Treatments

While it’s important to address pest and disease issues, overusing chemical treatments can cause more harm than good. Some chemicals can be harmful to beneficial insects and even the trees themselves. Always follow the recommended dosage and application instructions for any chemical treatment, and consider using organic or natural alternatives when possible. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, which combine cultural, biological, and chemical methods, can be a more sustainable and effective approach to maintaining tree health.

Not Monitoring for Invasive Species

Invasive pests and diseases significantly damage your trees and the surrounding ecosystem. Stay informed about any invasive species that may be present in your area, and take steps to prevent their introduction and spread. If you suspect an invasive pest or disease is affecting your trees, contact your local extension office or a professional arborist for guidance on appropriate management strategies.

4. Damaging Tree Roots

Compacting Soil Around Trees

Compacted soil around trees can hinder root growth and prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots. Avoid driving or parking vehicles near your trees, and minimize foot traffic around the root zone. If you suspect your soil is compacted, consider aerating the area to improve air and water penetration. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also help improve soil structure and promote healthy root growth.

Cutting Roots During Construction

Construction projects near trees can inadvertently damage their root systems, leading to tree decline or even death. Before beginning any construction, consult an arborist to determine the best way to protect your trees and their roots during the project. Establishing a tree protection zone around the tree’s critical root zone can help minimize damage during construction.

5. Planting Trees Incorrectly

Planting Too Deep

Planting a tree too deep can lead to a variety of problems, including root girdling, poor nutrient uptake, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. When planting a tree, ensure that the root flare – the point where the trunk begins to widen at the base – is visible above the soil line. This will allow for proper root development and promote overall tree health.

Choosing the Wrong Tree for Your Site

Selecting the right tree for your landscape is crucial to its long-term health and success. Consider factors such as the tree’s mature size, growth rate, and environmental requirements when choosing a species to plant. Planting a tree that is not well-suited to your site can lead to a host of problems, including stunted growth, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, and potential damage to nearby structures as the tree grows.

6. Failing to Protect Your Trees from Wildlife

Damage from Deer and Rodents

Deer and rodents can cause significant damage to your trees, especially during the winter months when food sources are scarce. Protect young trees by installing tree guards or fencing to deter browsing and gnawing. Repellents can also be effective, but may need to be reapplied frequently, especially after rain or snow.

Bird Damage

While birds are generally beneficial to your landscape, some species can cause damage to trees by pecking at the bark or nesting in tree cavities. If bird damage is a concern, try using visual or auditory deterrents to scare them away. Be sure to monitor their effectiveness and adjust your strategy as needed.

By avoiding these common tree care mistakes, you can help ensure that your trees remain healthy, beautiful, and structurally sound for years to come. Remember that proper tree care starts with understanding the specific needs of the trees in your landscape and being proactive in addressing potential problems. 


If you’re unsure about how to care for your trees, consult the professional arborists at Sexy Trees for guidance and assistance. With the right care and attention, your trees can thrive and become an invaluable asset to your property and the environment.

Aphids, Bees, and Other Springtime Pests to Look Out For

springtime pests

Spring is almost here, and with it comes an abundance of new growth and life. However, along with the beauty of spring also comes a host of springtime pests that can cause damage to your trees. As a tree care company, we like to educate our clients about the various pests that can harm trees so that they can take steps to protect them.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common springtime pests to look out for and what you can do to prevent them from causing harm to your trees.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of trees. They are most commonly found on deciduous trees, but can also be found on conifers. Aphids feed on the sap of trees, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl. They can also cause the tree to produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests and lead to sooty mold growth on the leaves.

Prevention

To prevent aphids from causing damage to your trees, there are a few things you can do. One is to attract beneficial insects to your yard, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which will feed on aphids. Another is to use a strong stream of water to blast the aphids off of the tree, which can be effective for small infestations. For larger infestations, you may need to use a pesticide specifically labeled for aphid control.

Bees

Bees are important pollinators that are vital to the health of our environment. However, they can also be a nuisance when they decide to build a hive in or around your trees. Bees can cause damage to the tree by burrowing into it to create a hive, which can weaken the structure of the tree and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.

Prevention

To prevent bees from building a hive in your tree, there are a few things you can do. One is to keep an eye out for bees that are flying in and out of a hole in the tree. If you notice this, it’s important to call a professional beekeeper to remove the hive as soon as possible. Another is to keep trees trimmed and pruned so that bees do not have a place to build a hive.

Other Springtime Pests

There are a variety of other springtime pests to look out for, such as caterpillars, scale insects, and spider mites. Caterpillars can defoliate a tree and make it more susceptible to disease, while scale insects and spider mites can cause the tree to become stunted and weak.

Prevention

To prevent these pests from causing damage to your trees, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, such as holes in the leaves or discoloration. If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s important to contact a professional tree care company as soon as possible. They can help to identify the pest and determine the best course of action for treatment.

In conclusion, spring is a wonderful time of year for tree growth, but also a time when pests can cause significant damage. By being aware of the most common springtime pests and taking steps to prevent them from causing harm, you can ensure that your trees remain healthy and beautiful all season long.

If you notice any signs of infestation or damage, don’t hesitate to contact a professional tree care company for assistance.

How to Save a Dying Birch Tree: (Detection, Treatment, & Prevention)

how to save a dying birch tree

Fairytale white bark, dripping green foliage… Birch trees are beautiful and provide shade during the hot summer months, but they can be very sensitive to their environment. If they’re not taken care of, or if they’re subjected to pests or harsh conditions, they can quickly sicken and die. But how can you identify the warning signs – do you know how to save a dying birch tree?

We do. Here’s a quick guide on how to save a dying birch tree. Detect, treat, and prevent birch tree death, plus learn a few tips to keep your trees healthy and resilient!

Signs Your Tree is Failing to Thrive

Defoliation and Yellowing or Browning of Foliage

A common sign that a birch tree is unhealthy is when its foliage starts to die off or change color. If you notice that your birch tree’s leaves are yellowing, browning, or falling off prematurely, it’s important to take action immediately. This is usually a sign of pests or disease – both of which can quickly kill a birch tree if left unchecked.

Bark Discoloration and Dark Patches

When bark starts to discolor or develop soft, tarry, or dark patches, it can be a sign of disease, pests, or even physical damage to the tree. If you notice any changes in the color or texture of your birch tree’s bark, it’s important to have a professional take a look as soon as possible.

Leaf Spots, Blotches, and Blisters

Leaf spots, blotches, and blisters on birch trees can be caused by a variety of fungal diseases. If you notice any of these symptoms on your tree’s leaves, it’s important to act quickly. Fungal diseases can spread rapidly and kill a birch tree if left untreated.

Split Branches or Dead Branches

Dieback and canker diseases from various pathogens attack the bark and cambium layers of birch trees. Diseased tissue widens and kills living tissue underneath the bark. Knotty growths form on bark and girdle stems, or the bark may split, revealing dead wood underneath.

Treatment

Here are a few things you can do to save a sick or dying birch tree:

Identify if Pests are the Culprit

Birch trees are particularly susceptible to attack from borers, aphids, and mites. The adult Bronze Birch borer is yellowish brown with coppery wings, with white and elongated larvae. These pests eat away at the insides of the tree, blocking the food and water supply and creating a maze of damage. Treatment for borers is best done early – otherwise the tree cannot be saved. As soon as you notice dieback or identify pests, treat the tree with insecticide. 

 Diseased Branches

Prune Away the Diseased Branches

If your tree is suffering from a fungal disease, you’ll need to prune away the affected branches. This will help stop the spread of the disease and give your tree a chance to focus its energy on healing. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tools before and after use to prevent the spread of disease to other trees.

Related Reading: Birch Tree Roots Removal: When and How to Cut Them

Opt for a Professional Diagnosis

If you’re not sure what’s wrong with your tree or how to treat it, your best bet is to call in a professional tree care company with certified arborists. They will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and provide you with the best course of treatment.

How to save a dying birch tree?Prevention

Water and Fertilize Regularly

Birch trees are not drought-friendly. They need a lot of water, especially when they’re young. Make sure to water them regularly (about once a week), and fertilize them yearly in the spring. This will help them to stay healthy and resist pests and disease.

Mulch the Roots

Mulching the roots of your birch tree will help it to retain moisture and resist temperature extremes. It’s important to use an organic mulch, like wood chips or shredded bark, and to keep it away from the trunk of the tree.

Plant Low-Growing Plants Around the Base

If you live in an area with hot summers, planting low-growing plants around the base of your birch tree will help to keep the roots shaded and cool. This will help the tree to resist stress and disease. By following these tips, you’ll know how to save a dying birch tree. If you think your tree is beyond help, it’s important to remove it before it has a chance to spread disease to other trees. Call in a professional tree removal company to safely and quickly remove the problem tree.

3 Causes for Dry and Brittle Trees

Berkeley Tree Removal

Dry trees can often drop branches and break leave tips easily, becoming a hazard during storms and strong winds. Most homeowners would prefer to have lush green trees in their yards to provide shade, however it’s not uncommon to find dry and brittle trees in your yard. But what are the main causes of dryness in trees? While sufficient water is an important factor it’s not the only cause contributing to dry and brittle trees.

Drought Stress

One of the most obvious and common causes for dry trees in California is drought stress. Drought stress can cause tree branches to become weak and fall easily, and also causes leaves to go brown and drop from the tree. Signs of drought stress also include slowed growth, a thinning canopy, and dying twigs high in the branches. The signs of drought stress are not necessarily obvious, and once the characteristic signs begin to show themselves it maybe too late to rescue the tree. Drought stress can eventually destroy your trees, leading to the need for tree removal.

Drought stress can be avoided by limiting pruning during drought times, avoiding using fertilizer, and applying organic mulch around the root system instead. When watering trees during dry or hot seasons, soak the roots less often rather than watering shallowly more often. If you need to prune trees call a qualified arborist to provide expert service to protect your trees and keep them healthy.

Over-Fertilization

Trees that grow rapidly are not as strong as those with slow, steady growth. Avoiding fast growing tree types can help to avoid dry and brittle trees, especially if your garden is going through difficult conditions such as a drought. Trees can also grow too fast if they’re supplied with too much fertilizer.

Fertilizer can ‘fast track’ growth without the tree being able to support the new growth with adequate nutrients or water. While fertilizer seems like a great way to ‘feed’ trees, it’s better to take a slower, more natural approach, and have an arborist apply mulch. Avoid fertilizing trees that are already dry or brittle, under drought stress or suffering from insect infestations or disease.

Pest Infestations and Diseases

Various pest infestations and tree diseases can cause trees to become weak, leaves and branch tips to become brown, and bark to go dry and fall off. The symptoms vary depending on the particular disease or infestation affecting the tree. If you notice your tree undergoing any unusual changes or you see visible signs of disease or pests on your tree, it’s important to call your local arborist as soon as possible. They can diagnose the specific condition affecting your tree and treat it in order to save the tree and prevent the condition spreading.

Dry and brittle trees could signify an underlying condition affecting your trees. If you notice dry and brittle trees, it’s important to act fast to prevent tree death or damage to your garden or property. Call a professional arborist as soon as possible to help get your trees back to full health.