Now that we’re well into 2016, here’s a question for you: Have you made any New Year’s resolutions? Most people do – and generally speaking, those resolutions tend to be about staying healthier and making better lifestyle choices. So if you’re looking to make some positive changes this year, consider your trees! Believe it or not, the very same resolutions you make for yourself can have some great benefits for your trees. Check it out:
How about losing a few extra pounds?
Take a good look at your trees; they might need a little slimming down. Weak or dead limbs aren’t just a drain on your tree’s energy, they can be a real danger as well. Get rid of those extra pounds by having your trees and shrubbery properly pruned.
A well-pruned tree is more resistant to insect infestation and diseases. Pruned by an expert, your trees will enjoy greater air circulation, better light penetration and an all-around healthier structure. And trimming away the dead weight keeps your family and your property safe from fallen branches.
Consider a healthier diet
In the natural setting of a forest, fallen leaves provide nutrients and create a vibrant system of microorganisms that support growth. But in our urban setting, we remove fallen leaves to show off our beautiful lawns – to the detriment of the entire ecosystem.
This year, resolve to replace those lost nutrients with a good fertilizer. Your tree professional may recommend adding some microbes to the mix, which will maximize the nutrients already present in the soil and build a stronger root system for both trees and grasses.
Stay grounded when things get rough
Who knows what kind of craziness this year has in store for us? It’s important to stay grounded and not let a few bumps in the road throw us off track – and it’s the same for your trees. From hurricane winds to severe drought to sudden flooding, your trees need a good solid root structure to keep them well grounded in all kinds of weather.
To promote deep root growth that keeps your trees firmly set in the ground, add a nice layer of mulch around each tree’s base. Mulching holds in the moisture during droughts, insulates from sudden floods and encourages the kind of root growth that sustains your tree when the winds start to blow.
Make better use of preventative health care
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s true for you, and for your trees. To avoid serious problems in the future, be sure to schedule an annual inspection by your local tree professional. It’s a simple, low-cost way to evaluate the health and structural integrity of your trees while keeping your property safe and attractive.
Support your family, your home and the environment
Healthy, vibrant trees are far more than just pretty. Your trees create a comfy spot for kids and pets to enjoy. They boost your home’s curb appeal and add substantially to its value. Large shade trees cool your home and cut down on energy costs. They keep soil from eroding, protect your property from excess water runoff, and clean the air.
If your New Year’s resolutions include doing something positive for the environment, consider planting more trees. You can add to the beauty and health of your own back yard or contribute to a larger restoration project in the area. Either way, you’re providing a meaningful and lasting benefit to the planet.
A healthy weight, a healthy diet, a firm foundation, a proactive health care plan and a better environment – these are the kinds of New Year’s resolutions we can all get behind. And they’re resolutions your trees will love!
If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call. We’re ready to help make those optimistic plans a reality, and guide your trees into a safe, healthy and productive New Year.
