What Is Tree Healthcare?

You’ve probably heard time and again that trees play an important role in our environment. From providing shade and oxygen to absorbing carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants, trees are essential for a healthy planet. But did you know our trees require regular care to maintain their health and vitality to continue providing these benefits for generations to come?

Tree healthcare is the practice of providing expert care on a regular basis to encourage the optimal health, growth, and safety of your trees. In this article, we will cover the various techniques and benefits of tree healthcare, and why investing in professional tree care services is a wise choice for your Winston-Salem property.

Key Takeaways:

• Trees play an important role in improving property value, boosting air quality, and reducing the risk of property damage, making tree healthcare a worthwhile investment.
• Early detection of tree problems can prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your trees.
• Tree healthcare services includes pruning, fertilization, pest and disease control, and soil amendment.

The Benefits of Tree Healthcare for Your Winston-Salem Trees

Investing in tree healthcare is a wise decision that can reap significant rewards for property owners in Winston-Salem. By prioritizing the health and well-being of your trees, you can enhance the value and livability of your property in numerous ways.

Increased Property Value

Studies have shown that healthy trees can substantially increase the value of a property because potential buyers are often drawn to properties with mature, well-maintained trees. Investing in the health of your trees can pay off in the long run.

Improved Air Quality

Trees improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. This can contribute to a healthier environment and improve respiratory health, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions. Cleaner air can enhance your overall well-being and create a more pleasant living space.

Reduced Risk of Property Damage

Healthy trees are better equipped to withstand storms and other adverse weather conditions. Investing in tree healthcare can reduce the risk of property damage caused by falling branches or uprooted trees. This not only saves you money on repairs and insurance premiums, but also provides great peace of mind.

Signs Your Tree Needs a Tree Healthcare Program

Recognizing the signs that your tree may need professional care can help prevent further damage and preserve its health. Some things you should be regularly inspecting your trees for are:

• Dying or discolored leaves
• Cracked or damaged bark
• Pest infestations
• Leaning or unstable trees
• Sudden or unexplained decline in health
• Excessive leaf drop
• Premature leaf drop
• Canopy dieback
• Noticeable root problems

Common Tree Healthcare Practices

Proper tree care is important for maintaining the health, vitality, and longevity of your trees. By implementing common tree healthcare practices, you can help protect your trees from diseases, pests, and other environmental stressors.

Pruning

Pruning involves selectively removing branches to maintain the tree’s health, shape, and safety. Different pruning techniques are used for various purposes:

• Thinning: Removing entire branches to reduce the density of the tree’s canopy, allowing for better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Structural Pruning: Removing branches that are weak, crossing, rubbing against each other, or dying can improve the tree’s structural integrity and reduce the risk of breakage.
• Crown Raising: Raise the crown of the tree to increase the distance between the lower branches and the ground. This can be beneficial for pedestrian and vehicle clearance or improve aesthetics.
• Crown Reduction: Reducing the overall size of the tree’s crown. This may be necessary for trees that are overgrown or located near power lines.

Soil Testing & Fertilization

Before fertilizing your trees, a soil sample test should be done to determine what, if any, nutrients are deficient. Knowing what nutrients are lacking in the soil can help you decide what type of fertilizer should be applied. Soil tests can be done by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services or by a local Certified Arborist.

Fertilizer is best applied in fall, when a tree enters dormancy and begins actively storing energy for next spring’s growth. How often you should apply fertilizer depends on the tree’s species, size, and health. However, most trees benefit from fertilizer at least 1 or 2 times a year.

Pest and Disease Control

Trees can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Regular monitoring for signs of infestation or infection is important for early detection and treatment. Some common tree pests and diseases we often see around Forsyth County include:

• Spongy Moth
• Southern Pine Beetle
• Spotted Lanternfly
• Emerald Ash Borer
• Bacterial Leaf Scorch
• Oak Wilt
• Dutch Elm Disease

Some of the ways we treat pests and diseases include tree injections and sprays. Tree injections deliver a specialized solution directly into the tree’s vascular system to target specific pests or diseases, while sprays are applied to the tree’s surface to control pests and diseases externally.

Both tree injections and sprays can be effective methods for treating pests and diseases, but the appropriate method will depend on the specific problem and the type of tree.

Soil Management

Healthy soil is essential for healthy trees. And unfortunately, it’s not always as easy as applying some fertilizer to make optimal conditions for the tree. There are several other ways to improve soil health, including:

• Mulching: Applying a layer of organic material, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of a tree can help retain moisture, block weeds, and regulate soil temperatures. This can create a more favorable environment for tree roots to thrive.
• Aeration: Puncturing the soil around the tree to improve drainage and root growth can help trees growing in compacted soil or poorly drained soils. These conditions can hinder root access to oxygen, nutrients, and water.
• Irrigation: Providing supplemental water during dry periods can be beneficial, especially in drought-prone areas or for young trees that have not yet established a deep root system. Adequate irrigation helps to maintain soil moisture levels and prevents stress on the tree.
• Soil Amendment: In some cases, amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve its structure and nutrient content. Generally, native soil and fill materials are low in available nutrients and soil pH, and since all plants require a balanced nutrient supply to grow healthy and strong, it’s important to create the most favorable environment for your trees.

Trust Godspeed Tree with All Your Tree Healthcare Needs

If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced company in Winston-Salem that specializes in tree healthcare, look no further than Godspeed Tree Service. Our team has provided top-quality tree care services to homeowners and businesses in the area for more than 25 years, and we would love to earn your trust, too.

Call Godspeed Tree Service at 336-399-8348 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help keep your trees healthy and vibrant.