How to take good care of it? Why dig around a tree?
To dig or not to dig around a tree? That is the question! But remember, protecting your tree also involves good mulch at its base and pruning at the right time. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know in this special tree maintenance article, so you can care for your tree correctly and avoid common mistakes!
How to Take Good Care of It? Why Dig Around a Tree?
Would you want to lose a tree due to neglect? Of course not! This article is designed to help you avoid beginner mistakes and maintain your tree properly. Here are some essential tips for taking care of your tree, especially its trunk.
Protect the Tree
Injuries caused by trimmers or lawnmowers can be fatal for your tree, so it’s crucial to protect it! One way to do this is by creating a bowl of earth around the base of your tree. This acts as a protective space, keeping the lawnmower away and allowing the tree to retain moisture in the soil, which provides essential nutrients.
However, it’s important to dig the hole a good distance away from the tree’s trunk, and avoid over-mulching. Too much mulch around the trunk can cause it to become damp and vulnerable to fungi. For added protection, consider installing a trunk protector to help the tree withstand its first winters.
Make Mulch with Grass Clippings
Instead of letting your grass clippings go to waste, use them to benefit your trees, especially fruit trees. Grass clippings make excellent mulch! Spread them in a roughly circular shape around the base of your tree. Aim for a radius of about 50 cm to 1 meter with a mulch thickness of 10 to 15 cm. Over time, as the grass dries, it will act as mulch, keeping the soil moist and helping eliminate weeds around the tree.
Within weeks, you’ll notice black humus forming, which is beneficial for both your tree and the soil. Best of all, this is a natural method that doesn’t require chemical fertilizers!
Prune the Tree at the Right Time
Pruning is an essential part of maintaining your tree’s health. You should prune your tree every few years to keep it in top condition. Begin with a training pruning in the second year after planting. This helps you correct structural defects early and gives the tree a beautiful shape by removing branches that might compete with the main crown.
Proper pruning prevents future issues that could arise as the tree matures. Prevention is always better than dealing with problems later on!
With these tips, you can ensure your tree stays healthy and thrives in your garden for years to come!
