Caring for Trees

A tree that is well adapted to the region and to the spot where it is planted usually will thrive once it is established with a few basic needs. Trees need air, water, light and nutrients. Typically, newly planted trees need occasional watering during the first growing season. During drought, some watering may be necessary during the second season as well. Afterward, trees should not need watering except during prolonged drought if they have been selected and planted properly.

Often, trees get whatever fertilizer they need from what is spread for the grass and require little or no additional fertilizing. The best care is a natural cover of leaves or 3-4 inches of mulch, which helps build the soil over years.

Allow room for the tree by knowing how large it will grow. Roots are very adaptable and grow in all directions, sometimes more than two times the height of the tree. Learn about pruning.

In the area's heavy clay soils, more new trees die from too much water than from too little. Excessive water drowns roots.

If the thin, flexible leaves on most deciduous trees wilt during a warm, sunny afternoon but revive in early evening, the tree does not need watering. If the leaves begin to wilt before noon, it may need water.

If leaves appear wilted even after watering, the tree probably has too much water because the roots are drowning and are not taking up water. One exception is if the tree has been allowed to get so dry that the roots and leaves are badly damaged. Browned or curled leaf edges are an indication that this may have happened. Even so, do not over-water the tree.

Disease

To treat sick trees appropriately, identify the symptoms of damage and understand their causes.

The tiny southern pine beetle is one of the area's most serious pests and the major insect killer of pine trees. Most homeowners do not notice anything wrong until it is too late. Rapid removal of infested trees is the best control.