Australia’s unique, diverse climate provides opportunities as well as challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy trees. From the extremes of dry, hot bush to tropical rainforests and everything in between – trees play a critical role in maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
Ensuring the health and longevity of trees here in Australia starts with understanding their specific needs and implementing the appropriate care and maintenance practices. Let’s take a look at how you can give your trees the best in care.
1. Choose The Right Tree
If you’re in the fortunate position of being able to select a new tree, do so with your specific conditions in mind. Different trees like different conditions, so playing a bit of perfect match will help to ensure your tree’s health and vitality. Consider factors such as temperature, exposure to sunlight, soil type, rainfall and the size of your space. Native tree species are generally a great option. Be sure to use the proper planting techniques to give your tree the best chance.
2. Water
Whilst newly planted trees require regular watering to properly establish their fledgling root systems, older, established trees generally do not require constant watering. In fact, over-watering trees can cause issues such as root rot, fungus growth and other issues. Let your tree and the ground surrounding it be your guide. To conserve water you may want to consider installing a drip irrigation system.
3. Mulch
Using mulch is one of the most effective, inexpensive and simple things you can do to keep your trees happy and healthy. Mulch has a multitude of benefits. It helps retain moisture in the soil, which is great for our Australian climate, it reduces weeds, it regulates the temperature of the soil, it helps keep pests away and it looks and smells fantastic. Winning! Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, however be sure not to pile it up right to the trunk. Leave a space of approximately 15 – 20 centimetres for best results.
4. Pest And Disease Prevention And Treatment
Australia is home to countless pests that can invade your tree. Tree disease is also common, so it’s best practice to regularly check your trees for any tell-tale signs of infestation or sickness. Look for signs such as wilting, leaf colour changes and visible signs of borers such as holes. If you suspect your tree has pests or disease, it’s important to act quickly and have it dealt with to give your tree the best chance at recovery.
5. Protect
The Australian climate can be harsh. Protect newly planted and susceptible trees from climate extremes such as drought, extreme heat, storms and strong winds to give them the best chance at survival. You may wish to shield trees with a wind break or provide shelter in a particularly hot summer.
6. Regular Pruning
Proper pruning is essential to overall tree health and vitality. Removing dead, diseased or dying branches prevents the spread of pests and disease, removes weakness and can improve air circulation in the tree’s canopy. Good structural pruning can help younger trees establish a strong framework and promote structural integrity. Be aware of when you choose to prune as certain tree species can be sensitive to pruning in some seasons. Only prune your trees if you know what you’re doing and have the appropriate tools and equipment.
7. Consult With An Arborist
To give your trees the very best in care, have your local Arborist do regular check-ups and implement a care and maintenance schedule. Just like us, trees can give tell tale signs of problems, but unless you know what you’re looking for, you may miss it. Your Arborist is just like a Doctor for your trees, and will be able to give you tailored advice about your specific type of trees and your local region, so your trees will be strong, healthy and vibrant for years to come.
For the very best in tree care and advice, speak to the team at Aussie Tree Solutions today.
With over forty years of experience, let our expert skills and knowledge provide you total peace of mind. We offer a full range of tree services from tree pruning and tree removals, to Consulting Arborist services and stump grinding. Whatever your tree issue, we have the solution! Call our friendly team today.