Tree Care and Maintenance

Tree Care and Maintenance

Spring / Summer Maintenance (click to expand or collapse)

Watering

  • Water 1–2 times per week during the first year.
  • Water weekly during years 2–3, adjusting for rainfall and soil type.
  • If weekly rainfall is less than 25 mm, provide approximately 130 L per week.

Staking

  • Stake only if the tree is unstable or exposed to strong winds.
  • Use 1–3 stakes placed outside the root ball with soft, flexible ties.
  • Allow slight trunk movement and place ties in the lower third of the trunk.
  • Remove stakes after one growing season or once the tree is stable.

Pruning

  • Remove only dead or damaged branches.
  • Avoid heavy pruning during the first 1–3 years.
  • Remove suckers growing from the base or roots.

Compost

  • Top-dress with well-decomposed compost around the root zone.
  • Apply ½–1 inch per application in spring or fall.
  • Keep compost away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Optional: install trunk wraps in winter and remove in spring.
Leaf Troubleshooting (click to expand or collapse)

Leaf Color Changes

  • Yellowing: Overwatering or nutrient deficiency
  • Pale: Low light or nutrient deficiency
  • Red or purple: Stress or nutrient imbalance

Droopy Leaves

  • Usually caused by underwatering, heat stress, or root damage

Browning Leaves

  • Edges or tips: Drought, salt, sun, or wind damage
  • Entire leaf: Disease, pests, or root problems

Helpful Tips

  • Check soil moisture regularly
  • Watch for pests or fungal issues
  • Ensure proper sunlight and drainage
  • Mulch to retain moisture
Pest Management Tips (click to expand or collapse)
  • Inspect trees regularly for signs of pests.
  • Identify pests accurately before treatment.
  • Maintain tree health with proper watering and mulching.
  • Remove pests by hand or prune affected areas if needed.
  • Use targeted, eco-friendly treatments only when necessary.
  • Avoid overusing pesticides to prevent resistance.
Fall / Winter Maintenance (click to expand or collapse)

Most young trees do not require special winter care. Deciduous trees naturally shed their leaves and become dormant. Trunk wraps may be used to protect bark from rodents and should be removed in spring.

General Winter Care Tips

  • No watering is needed when the ground is frozen.
  • Resume watering in spring once soil thaws.
  • Protect trunks from rodents if needed.
  • Prune only dead or hazardous branches in winter.
  • Apply compost only in spring or fall.