BLOG Tree Care Myths Busted: Insights from Lux Arbor Tree Experts Dec 11, 2024

Tree care is often enveloped in myths and misconceptions that can lead to costly mistakes or even damage the well-being of your beloved trees. At Lux Arbor Tree Services, we're dedicated to helping you debunk these myths and ensure that your trees thrive for years to come. In this article, we tackle some of the most common myths about tree care and provide insights to help you nurture your landscape assets effectively.

One prevalent myth is that trees need regular pruning to stay healthy. While trimming is crucial for removing dead or diseased branches, over-pruning can cause more harm than good. It's important to understand that each tree species has its needs, and excessive cutting can lead to stress, making trees more susceptible to pests and diseases. Our experts at Lux Arbor advise that pruning should primarily be done to remove safety hazards or improve the form and visibility of the tree. For optimal results, pruning should be scheduled during a tree's dormant season.

Another misconception is that tree roots grow deep into the ground. In reality, most tree roots are located within the top 18 inches of soil. These surface roots spread out wide to access as much moisture and nutrients as possible. Knowing this, it's crucial to avoid compacting the soil around your trees with heavy equipment or excessive foot traffic. Instead, maintain a protective layer of mulch—a practice we highly recommend at Lux Arbor Tree Services. Mulching helps preserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and provide essential nutrients to the roots.

There is also a common belief that newly planted trees don't need much water. On the contrary, young trees require a consistent watering schedule to establish a robust root system. Depending on the climate and soil conditions, young trees might need to be watered every two to three days. At Lux Arbor, we emphasize the importance of deep watering, which ensures that moisture reaches the developing root zone without encouraging surface roots to venture away from their optimal growth area.

Some homeowners think that all trees are self-sufficient and don't need regular inspection. This myth can lead to an oversight of potential hazards that might compromise tree health or safety. Regular inspections can uncover signs of disease, pest infestations, or structural weaknesses before they become significant problems. Scheduling routine check-ups with professional arborists, like those at Lux Arbor, ensures that you catch and address issues early, maintaining the vigor and stability of your trees.

Lastly, a recurring myth is that tree topping is an acceptable way to control tree size. Topping, or cutting the main branches back to stubs, is one of the most harmful practices a tree can be subjected to. This method exposes the tree to decay and weak branch structures. Instead of topping, consider alternative strategies such as crown reduction to manage the size and shape of trees safely.

In conclusion, understanding and dispelling these tree care myths can greatly enhance the health and longevity of your trees. At Lux Arbor Tree Services, our mission is to empower you with the correct information and services needed to keep your landscape not only beautiful but also thriving. Whether it's pruning advice, planting strategies, or preventative care, our experienced arborists are always available to assist you with your tree care needs. Remember, healthy trees mean a healthy environment—let’s work together to make that a reality.