Trees are not just a part of our environment. They play a vital role in providing us with oxygen, shade, and beauty. They can also help increase the value of your property by as much as 14%. But like many things we take for granted, trees need care and attention to stay healthy. You may not think about it often, but your trees are just as dependent on you as you are on them. Here are tips that will keep your trees happy and healthy:

1. Get Local Advice

First and foremost, a local arborist can tell you which tree species are best suited to your local conditions and climate. Local arborists are well-versed in local tree species and local weather patterns. They know which trees typically survive local winters, for example, so that they can select the best possible species for your needs.

2. Take Action Now

If you are concerned about the health, shape, or condition of a tree on your property, it's best to consult local arborists who can tell you how to care for it properly. The longer a problem goes untreated, the more costly it will be to resolve. So contact local arborists if you notice any changes in a tree's health or appearance. Many local arborists make emergency house calls for no extra charge. The sooner you act, the easier it will be to manage your trees and keep them healthy.

Remember, it is also recommended that trees be inspected once each year to ensure their overall health and continued viability.

3. Avoid Over-Fertilizing

Fertilizers are often over-applied, which can burn the roots of local trees and plants. If needed, apply fertilizer in light amounts at regular intervals during the growing season and never use pesticides on foliage. They harm plant life just like they do their intended targets. Use local pest control services instead.

4. Don't Pile Things Under Trees

Avoid piling things, like wood or construction materials, under trees. These items can block sunlight from reaching the tree's roots. This is especially true when trees are young; it can stunt their growth or cause them to die prematurely.

5. Get Your Trees Pruned Regularly

Properly maintained local trees need annual pruning by certified arborists who have been trained in tree trimming or other tree pruning techniques. Correct pruning increases airflow through the tree's canopy and reduces pest infestations (such as honeydew from aphids). Also, you'll enjoy a more attractive tree that can better withstand storms.

6. Keep Pets Away

Dogs, cats, and other pets will chew and claw trees and other plants for their own amusement - even when they're not hungry (it's just what they do.) Pet nails can damage tree bark, which causes wounds that allow diseases to enter easily. If you notice pet-related problems, contact a certified arborist for advice.

7. Be Neighborly

Trees help make our local communities beautiful, so be kind to your neighbors and make sure that your trees don't encroach on their property. This will save lots of time and thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs caused by falling trees or branches.

8. Avoid Invasive Local Trees

Certain types of local trees are classified as invasive because they spread easily by rooting at their nodes (where a leaf joins the twig) and dropping seeds that sprout into new plant life. In addition to changing the natural look of an area, invasive local trees also crowd out existing native plants.

9. Don't Let Trees Get Too Big

You can do this by hiring local certified arborists annually to measure them and prune any branches growing toward your property or utility lines. Trees should be pruned as they grow but kept within their own growth zone, so they don't get too big for the landscape.

An arborist is also trained to listen to the information you provide about your property's environment, soil, and history. They can look at where the tree is located in relation to other structures; examine its trunk (including inside); study its branches and leaves; check for pests or disease, and more – all before recommending a course of action to protect it. If you're looking for an experienced certified arborist, contact Huffman Tree Company today!