Tree management and care

Tree Maintenance

Regular pruning helps maintain the health and aesthetic appeal of a tree. This involves removing diseased, damaged, or dead branches.
Prune trees during their dormancy season, but you can prune corrective branches or dead branches at any time.
Checking for insect infestations and diseases is crucial in tree maintenance. Regular inspections can help detect problems early before they escalate.
The application of fertilisers can help enrich the soil, particularly if the soil is deficient in certain nutrients. However, tree fertilisation should be done based on soil tests.

The amount of water a tree needs depends on its species and age, as well as the climate, season, and soil type. As a rule of thumb, water deeply but infrequently to encourage the development of deep root systems.
Mulching around the base of a tree helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. When applying mulch, leave a gap around the trunk to prevent rot.

Young and newly planted trees may need staking for support until the root system is strong enough. However, indefinite staking can hinder tree growth and should be avoided.
In urban or trafficked areas, the root system and trunk of a tree may require protection. Using tree guards or shields helps prevent damage from machinery, animals, or vandalism.
Trees might be vulnerable to pests and diseases. Using integrated pest management (IPM) strategies such as regular monitoring, biological control, habitat manipulation, and targeted use of pesticides can help.

Signs of tree health problems can manifest in its bark, foliage, and roots. Track changes and take note of discolouration, defoliation, premature leaf drop, or abnormal growth patterns.
The presence of fungi on a tree might signal internal decay. Consult with an arborist or tree professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
In many cases, trees grow in confined spaces leading to girdling where the roots circle around the base of the tree, resulting in strangulation. This is often a structural and health problem that may require professional intervention.