Proper care after trimming a tree on your property is important for its long-term health. There are many things you can do for your tree to keep it standing tall for many years.

Take Great Care with Water

Trimming causes some stress to trees and as a result, it will need more water needs for a short while. This is particularly true during warm or hot weather. Be sure to water the tree once or twice at its base, deep enough that it reaches the root zone. Be careful not to overwater; the soil needs to be moist but not soggy.

Mulch Where Roots Are Located

Place 2–4 inches of organic mulch such as wood chips around the base at least 2–3 inches from the trunk, so there won’t be problems with pests or rotting. This will keep weeds from growing, regulate the temperature of the soil, and help the root zone retain moisture.

Promote Natural Tree Recovery Methods

Make it possible for your tree to heal by preserving its energy. Use measures to support its health such as pulling up weeds and competing grass around the base, fertilizing when your tree is low in nutrients, and pruning at an appropriate time of year for the specific tree species.

Protection From Disease and Pests

A major barrier to tree health is pest infestation and the spread of diseases. After you trim a tree, it has fresh cuts that make it vulnerable to pathogens and insects. It’s best not to seal or paint these cuts unless an expert recommends it. You can do regular inspections for sap leakage and sawdust, bark damage, discoloration and/or wilting. If you do notice pests on your tree, neem oil or a natural soap made for getting rid of insects are good options.

Reduce Stress From the Environment

Once you trim a tree, it can be incredibly vulnerable to environmental stressors including wind and heat. It’s crucial that you do your best to minimize things that can cause stress in the immediate environment.

Ideas to prevent stress to your tree include:

• Make a windbreak (out of burlap or shrubs, among other things) for your tree if it’s in an especially exposed area.
• Use a shade cloth if your tree is newly planted or young.
• Try not to mow your law or dig by the root zone in the few weeks after trimming your tree.

Give your tree the best possible chance for continued health and longevity by using careful strategies after trimming. If you’d like help with tree trimming and/or maintenance when this is done, contact us at A & C Tree Services in Prescott Valley, AZ.