Trimming a tree is an essential task, but the act of cutting off branches can also put the tree into a weakened state. It’s more susceptible to infection and infestation when it has fresh cuts. You’ve got to give that tree some great care in the hours, days, and weeks after the trimming session, but it’s not that hard to ensure the tree survives. Each step is simple and goes a long way toward encouraging the tree to grow even stronger.
Water the Tree
Give the tree a good drink of water after trimming. Don’t drown it, obviously, but give it a nice, deep watering to ensure it has enough moisture to start healing well. As the days pass, keep checking the soil for dryness, and give the tree more water just to keep the soil moist. Every week or two, give the tree another deep watering.
Wait to Add Fertilizer
Don’t fertilize right away. Let the tree work on stabilizing and healing over the cuts. It will be a few weeks before you even want to think about fertilizing, and the exact length of time varies by species. You can contact a garden center or tree service to find out more about when you can once again fertilize the tree.
Mulch Around the Base
After that watering, you don’t want the sun to make all that moisture evaporate. Instead, add a layer of mulch around the tree. Never let the mulch touch the trunk, though, because that promotes mold growth. In fact, you want to leave all of the tree where the trunk meets the ground open to the air. This is the section known as the root flare, where the trunk widens as it heads toward the ground. Add mulch to the entire area that’s under the tree’s canopy.
Consider Wound Dressing
Some people advise adding a wound dressing to the cuts after pruning. However, not every tree does well with these. Some are better off with exposed cuts that will heal over.
Keep an Eye on the Cuts and Leaves
Despite the ability of trees to heal those cuts naturally, you’ll still want to watch them along with the leaves. Look for any signs of infection or pest infestation (they love freshly exposed wood) and yellowed leaves. If you see any of those, it’s time to call an arborist or tree service for help.
Tree trimming may leave “wounds” on a tree, but the tree will heal if it receives great care from you. You might find it easiest to plan each step of the care process ahead of time on a calendar so that you don’t forget to inspect the tree or water it. And, once the tree heals, you’ll have a happier, stronger tree. If you have concerns or require tree trimming services, contact Hangin’ Limbs in Lyons, GA.