The Key to Keeping Your Evergreen Trees Healthy and Thriving!

Evergreen trees are an important part of any landscape. Properly caring for them is essential in order to keep them healthy and thriving. The first step in tree care for evergreens is watering. Depending on the amount of rainfall, it may be necessary to water the tree every two weeks or so. It’s best to provide slow, deep irrigation rather than frequent shallow waterings as this will encourage deep root growth. When fertilizing your evergreen, use a slow-release fertilizer that has been formulated specifically for coniferous species such as pines, firs and spruces. Apply according to manufacturer’s directions but no more than once per year in early spring before bud break. Visit: https://napervilletreeremovallandscapingsnow.com/

Pruning is also important to keep evergreen trees attractive and healthy. Begin pruning early, while the tree is still young, in order to shape it properly. Remove any dead or diseased wood as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection. Minor shaping can be done throughout the year but avoid excessive pruning in late summer/early fall so that new growth will harden off before cold weather arrives. If necessary, light limb removal may be done during winter months but never remove more than 25% of a tree’s foliage at one time.

Mulching around your evergreen trees helps conserve moisture and keeps weeds down. A three inch layer of mulch two feet out from the trunk up to the drip line of the tree is recommended. Make sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and discourage rodents and insects from making their home in your tree. In addition, be mindful of any construction or mechanical equipment near your trees as roots can easily become damaged by digging. Finally, monitor for signs of stress such as yellowing leaves, branch dieback or insect infestation; if detected act quickly in order to save your evergreen tree.