Trees are the most important part of our landscape. Apart from having a relaxing effect, trees are a great way to add some much-needed lushness to your backyard. However, some people forget that they truly need our full attention in order to grow their lovely green crowns. Your backyard trees’ long-term development and health depend on regular upkeep. Here are some ways to maintain your trees in good health.

Take care of the weeds and grass

Controlling the root zone is an important consideration when starting a new tree planting project. Keeping weeds out of your yard is clearly important, but so is ensuring that the roots of your trees have enough room to enable them to flourish. To ensure that your tree has enough space to develop, it is important to keep an eye out for any grass that may be competing with its roots. When you start pruning around your tree, be very careful not to damage its root system.

Plant the right tree species

Let’s go back to the basics! If you want to have trees thriving in your backyard, it’s highly important to have the right species planted. To ensure a full and healthy life for your plant, choose one that is well-suited to the soil, light, and space conditions of your Australian yard. The finest trees for the Australian climate are the Japanese maple, magnolia, and red silky oak, among many others. If you’re still having troubles with picking out the right tree and maintaining it, call your local tree surgeon. A professional arborist in Northern Beaches will know this area and soil best and give you the right recommendation and treatment for your backyard babies.

Be effective when watering

Water is essential for all life and the same goes for your plants and trees. Therefore, watering them correctly is key to their health and well-being. You'll need to water your trees often throughout the warmer months to keep them from drying out. As opposed to a constant sprinkling of water, an occasional soak is much more beneficial. Also, you don't need to water your trees throughout the winter, unless they were just planted. Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that not every tree species has the same watering requirements, so doing some research is crucial. Too much water can be as detrimental to the tree’s health as underwatering.

Pruning and trimming is key

Keeping an eye on your trees as they mature is a necessary part of their growing process. Pruning and trimming of damaged or dead wood will be required in order to restore the proper balance between the canopy and the root system. You should keep an eye out for any wood that may pose a threat in the future as trees mature. Branches that appear like they could rub together or intertwine should be observed for any codominant growth that might lead to future weaknesses. If you notice that you can’t help the tree from developing in the wrong manner, consider removing it from your backyard.

Don’t forget to mulch

Mulch is a tree's greatest companion since it insulates the soil and helps protect it from the extremes of both heat and cold. As a result, the tree does not have to compete with weeds and water for nutrients. Soil compaction is prevented and lawnmower damage is reduced by mulching. These are all the reasons to keep mulching at the top of your tree-care priority list!

Having a healthy backyard is not something you should take lightly. However, if you follow the aforementioned tips, you should have no issues having thriving and luscious backyard greenery. Being smart when watering, pruning, and mulching your trees are all great ways to care for them, provided you’ve planted the adequate species for your climate.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith