Now that spring is here, it’s time to give a little extra attention and care to the trees on your property. Trees are built to withstand tough winters but that doesn’t mean they don’t benefit benefit from a little human help every once in a while to ensure that they continue to thrive all year round.
It’s a good idea for homeowners to do an inspection of each of their trees a few times a year to make sure they’re growing strong and healthy. When inspecting a tree it’s best to be systematic. Start from the bottom and work your way up, taking note of anything out of the ordinary along the way. If you see something wrong, it’s time to call your friendly neighbourhood arborist to help revive your ailing tree. We at All Season Tree Service in Edmonton suggest that everyone do a tour of their trees this spring with this handy checklist of things to look for.
• ROOTS
If your tree’s root system is visible, you should check for any signs of fungus or insect infestations. Even if you can’t see the root system, you should look around the ground near the tree to look for newly raised sections of earth. If there are cracks in the ground or raised sections, it might mean that your tree’s roots aren’t growing properly and that the tree is starting to tilt.
• TRUNK
Your tree’s bark should be strong and cover the entire trunk. Breaks in the bark can offer pests and bacteria entry into the tree’s vulnerable core. Check to see if there are any holes in the tree or if any fungi or mould is infesting the trunk. If you’re unsure about the health of your trees, one of our arborists can be dispatched to perform a disease consultation.
• BRANCHES
After a tough winter, it’s entirely possible that some of your tree’s branches will have died. That’s normal. Dead branches can be pruned until live branch is reached. If you’re unsure, you can scrape off a small bit of bark to check if the branch is still alive. If you see green underneath the bark, the tree is doing well. Too many dead branches, however, can mean there’s a problem.
• LEAVES
You should keep an eye on your tree’s leaves throughout the growing season. Thinning or small leaves are an easy-to-spot sign that a tree is in trouble. If your trees’ leaves have already started showing, be sure to check for any discolouration or cankers that could mean insect infestation or disease.
Of course, tree care isn’t just about identifying problems—it’s also about solving them. If you notice any signs of distress in your trees this spring or if you’re unsure that something is a sign, don’t hesitate to contact an arborist at All Season Tree Service today.