16 Dec 7 Tree Care Myths that are Harmful to Trees
Tree Care Myths to Avoid
As a home owner, it’s important to understand proper tree care. Trees are vital components of our environment, providing shade, clean air, and natural beauty. However, many common tree care practices based on myths and misconceptions can actually harm these majestic plants.
Here’s a detailed look at some widespread tree care myths that could be damaging your trees. If you have immediate questions for our team, please contact Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Tree Service today at (920) 252-2204!
1. Deep Planting
One of the most pervasive myths is that planting trees deeply makes them more stable and promotes better root growth. Planting trees too deeply can suffocate roots and lead to decay at the trunk base. The root flare (where the trunk begins to spread into roots) should be visible above ground level. Deep planting can cause slow decline and eventual death of the tree, often years after planting.
Correct Practice
Proper tree planting begins with a hole that matches the root ball’s height but is two to three times wider.
The most crucial aspect is ensuring the root flare remains visible above ground level after planting. When backfilling, use the native soil rather than adding amendments, as this encourages roots to expand beyond the planting hole.
Create a shallow mulch basin around the tree to help retain moisture, but keep the mulch from touching the trunk. This approach promotes healthy root development while maintaining proper trunk health and stability.
We detail more about how to properly plant your tree here.
2. Topping Controls Tree Size
Perhaps the most damaging myth is that topping (severely cutting back large branches and tree tops) is an effective way to reduce tree size. This practice causes multiple serious problems:
- It creates large wounds that rarely heal properly
- It stimulates rapid, weak growth of multiple shoots
- It destroys the tree’s natural form and makes it more susceptible to damage
- It can starve the tree by removing too much leaf-bearing crown Instead of topping, proper pruning techniques should be used to maintain tree size and shape.
Correct Practice
Instead of topping, trees should be managed through proper trimming or pruning techniques that preserve their natural form. Begin by making selective reduction cuts to shorten specific branches when necessary, never removing more than 25% of the live crown in a single season.
Focus on making proper pruning cuts just outside the branch collar, and consider crown raising or thinning as alternatives to reduction when possible. The best long-term solution is to choose tree species appropriate for the available space, eliminating the need for severe size control measures.
We discuss more about this in our articles on does cutting off dead branches help a tree and 4 reasons why tree trimming is important.
3. Wound Dressing Heals Cuts
For decades, people believed painting pruning cuts with wound dressing or tar helped trees heal. Research shows these products actually trap moisture and slow the tree’s natural healing process. Trees have evolved their own highly effective compartmentalization process to seal off wounds. Clean cuts at the proper location are all that’s needed.
Correct Practice
The best approach to pruning involves making clean cuts with sharp tools just outside the branch collar, allowing the tree’s natural defense mechanisms to function. Avoid pruning during wet weather to minimize infection risk, and promptly remove dead or damaged branches when you notice them.
There’s no need for wound dressings or sealants; trees have evolved sophisticated compartmentalization processes that work best when left undisturbed. Focus instead on making smaller cuts whenever possible and maintaining proper pruning techniques to minimize wound size.
4. More Water is Better
Overwatering is a common mistake based on the belief that more water always benefits trees. Excessive watering can:
- Drown roots by filling air spaces in the soil
- Create conditions favorable for root rot and fungal diseases
- Waste water and increase utility bills Trees need deep, occasional watering rather than frequent shallow watering.
Correct Practice
Effective tree watering involves deep, infrequent irrigation that encourages extensive root development. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to slowly apply water at the drip line until it reaches a depth of 18-24 inches. Before watering, check soil moisture using a soil probe to avoid overwatering.
Adjust your watering schedule based on rainfall, season, and soil type, and maintain a proper mulch layer to help retain soil moisture. This approach promotes drought resistance and ensures healthier root development throughout the soil profile.
Related: 7 Tips for Emergency Storm-Damaged Tree Cleanup
5. Fertilizer Fixes Everything
Many people believe regular fertilization is necessary for all trees and that it can cure any tree health problem. This myth leads to:
- Unnecessary application of fertilizers when soil nutrients are adequate
- Excessive growth that makes trees more susceptible to certain problems
- Pollution of groundwater from fertilizer runoff
- Wasted money on unneeded treatments Healthy trees in good soil often don’t need supplemental fertilization.
Correct Practice
A scientific approach to fertilization begins with soil testing to identify specific nutrient deficiencies. Only apply fertilizer when tests confirm it’s needed, using slow-release organic options applied at the appropriate time of year. Focus primarily on maintaining soil health through proper organic matter content and pH management.
Consider incorporating mycorrhizal treatments in poor soils to enhance nutrient uptake naturally. This targeted approach prevents waste while ensuring trees receive only the nutrients they actually need for optimal growth.
Related: Winter Tree Care
6. All Mulch is Good Mulch
While mulching can benefit trees, improper mulching techniques can cause significant harm. The “mulch volcano” practice of piling mulch against tree trunks:
- Creates moist conditions that promote bark decay
- Provides habitat for rodents that may damage the tree
- Can cause roots to grow in unnatural patterns
Correct Practice
Proper mulching involves maintaining a 2-4 inch layer of organic material that extends to the drip line but stays 6-12 inches away from the trunk. Choose appropriate organic mulch materials such as wood chips or leaves, and replace them as they decompose. Before applying fresh mulch, remove any weeds or grass that might compete with the tree for nutrients.
This approach provides the benefits of moisture retention and temperature regulation while avoiding the problems associated with excessive mulch depth or trunk contact.
7. If It’s Green, It’s Healthy
Don’t always assume that if your tree is sprouting green leaves that it’s healthy. Trees can appear healthy while harboring serious structural problems or root issues. Regular inspection by certified arborists can identify potential problems before they become visible in the crown.
Correct Practice
Comprehensive tree care requires regular monitoring beyond just checking leaf color. Schedule periodic inspections by certified arborists who can assess structural integrity, root health, and soil conditions. Keep detailed records of any changes in tree health or treatments applied, and address potential problems early before they become severe.
This proactive approach should include checking for structural defects, weak branch unions, and signs of pest or disease issues. For valuable specimens, consider implementing a preventive care program that includes regular health assessments and maintenance schedules.
Related: Protecting Your Trees: What You Should Know
Good Tree Care Practices to Know:
There are several tips to keep in mind in order to properly care for trees. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Plant at the correct depth with the root flare visible
- Prune only as needed using proper techniques
- Water deeply but infrequently
- Test soil before fertilizing
- Mulch properly, maintaining a gap around the trunk
- Have trees inspected regularly by qualified professionals
Have questions on proper tree care? Just ask the Gabe’s Top It or Drop It team! Call us at (920) 252-2204 or contact us online.
Closing Thoughts
By avoiding these common myths and following evidence-based tree care practices, we can help ensure our trees remain healthy and continue providing their many benefits for years to come. Need a trusted tree company in the Waupaca, WI area?
The Gabe’s Tree Service team is here to help you with keeping your trees healthy and safe and we remove the tree only if it’s a safety hazard to you and your property. For more information, please refer to our article here on warning signs your tree should be removed here.
Related: How to Choose a Lot Clearing Company
Contact Gabe’s Tree Service Today!
At Gabe’s, our tree removal and tree care experts believe in preserving healthy trees whenever possible. If you have a concern about a tree on your property, please contact our tree service team in Wild Rose today! We have more than 40+ years of combined experience in the industry. Our experienced team will help you make informed decisions about your trees’ health and care.
Our tree care and tree removal company proudly services the areas of Waupaca, Steven’s Point, Appleton, and Oshkosh, WI. For professional tree care services and assessments, please contact our team at (920) 252-2204.
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