Tree Care Mistakes You Are Probably Committing!
Healthy trees boost curb appeal, provide shade, and increase property value. Yet many homeowners unintentionally harm their trees through common Tree Care Mistakes.
This guide covers the Top 10 tree care mistakes and how to avoid them together with practical tips and when to call a professional tree surgeon for safe, effective tree surgery.
Planting The Wrong Tree in the Wrong Place Problem:
Species that outgrow the space, clash with soil or climate, or interfere with utilities become hazardous and costly. How to avoid: Check soil pH, drainage, sun exposure, and mature size, before planting. Also check distance from buildings, driveways, and overhead lines.
Planting Too Deep and Burying the Trunk Flare Problem:
A buried trunk flare suffocates roots, invites rot, and destabilises the tree. How to avoid: Locate the trunk flare (where trunk widens at the base) and set it slightly above surrounding soil. Backfill with the original soil, not compost-heavy mixes and water to settle air pockets.
Overwatering or Underwatering Problem:
Chronic wetness leads to root rot; drought stresses trees and invites pests. How to avoid: Water deeply but infrequently. For established trees, aim for 1 inch of water per week in growing season if rainfall is lacking. Check soil moisture 6 inches down before irrigating.
Mulch Volcanoes Problem:
Piling too much mulch against the trunk causes decay, girdling roots, and pest issues. How to avoid: Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch in a wide ring, keeping a mulch-free donut 3 to 6 inches from the trunk. Extend mulch to the dripline if possible.
Topping and Improper Pruning Cuts Problem:
Topping creates weak sprouts, sunscald and long-term instability and is one of the most damaging tree care mistakes. How to avoid: Use correct reduction and thinning cuts at branch collars. Maintain the natural form. If major canopy reduction seems necessary, consult a qualified tree surgeon.
Pruning at the Wrong Time With the Wrong Tools Problem:
Off-season pruning can reduce flowering or spread disease and dull or dirty tools can tear bark and transmit pathogens. How to avoid: Prune most trees in late winter while dormant (species vary), disinfect tools between cuts when disease is present and keep blades sharp. Avoid heavy pruning during active disease periods for species like oak and elm.
Ignoring Pests, Diseases, and Nutrient Deficiencies Problem:
Subtle symptoms can escalate into canopy dieback or structural failure. How to avoid: Inspect regularly for leaf discoloration, wilting, oozing, exit holes, or sawdust. Test soil every 2 to 3 years. Address issues early with cultural fixes (watering, mulch, soil amendments) and targeted treatments recommended by a tree care professional.
Mechanical Damage to Trunks and Roots Problem:
Lawn mowers, string trimmers, construction or soil compaction can injure the cambium and roots, reducing vigour. How to avoid: Create wide mulch rings to keep equipment away. During construction, fence off root zones (at least to the dripline), avoid trenching near roots, and prevent heavy traffic on moist soils.
Skipping Structural Pruning in Young Trees Problem:
Poor branch structure leads to weak unions, co-dominant stems and future failures. How to avoid: In the first 5 to 10 years, train a single, dominant leader branch with well-spaced scaffold branches. Remove rubbing, crossing or included-bark limbs early, with small clean cuts.
DIY Tree Surgery Beyond Your Skill Level Problem:
Climbing, working near power lines, or removing large limbs can cause severe injury and property damage. How to avoid: Know your limits. Hire an insured, qualified Tree Surgeon for climbs, large removals, storm-damaged trees, cabling, bracing, and any work near utilities. Obtain permits where required.
When to Call aProfessional Tree Surgeon
- Large or high canopy pruning
- Storm damage, hanging limbs, or split trunks
- Trees near structures or power lines
- Signs of decay, cavities, or root plate movement
- Complex diagnostics for pests, diseases, or soil issues
A reputable tree surgery company will provide a written plan, proof of insurance, and references.
Quick Tree Care Checklist
- Right tree, right place
- Visible root flare at planting
- Deep, infrequent watering; check soil first
- Mulch wide and never against the trunk
- Prune correctly at the right time
- Keep tools clean and sharp
- Protect trunks and roots from equipment and compaction
- Train young trees for strong structure
- Monitor for pests and diseases
- Call a tree surgeon for hazardous or complex work
Conclusion
Avoiding these tree care mistakes is far easier and cheaper than fixing them later. By following these Top 10 Tree Care Mistakes And How To Avoid Them and partnering with a qualified Tree Surgeon for specialised Tree Surgery and diagnostics, you will keep your trees healthier, safer, and more beautiful for years to come.
We hope that you have enjoyed reading this Tree Care Mistakes article. Please feel free to share it with your friends and colleagues. You may also enjoy reading our post on How To Care For Your Trees In Winter. If you have trees in your garden that are in need of professional help, please do not hesitate to Contact Us and speak to one of our qualified Arborists.
