Keep your trees happy this summer with these simple tree care steps:
1) Water: Newly planted street trees (10-15′ tall) need 20-30 gallons of water per week for the first two years they’re in the ground. Water should be applied slowly at the base of your tree using a hose, bucket, or gator bag (pictured below) during the spring, summer, and fall. When the ground freezes, you can stop watering. Remember: lack of water is the #1 reason a newly planted tree dies!
2) Mulch: Mulch is the best thing you can do for your tree, and it’s inexpensive! Mulch retains moisture, helps prevent weed growth, adds microorganisms to the soil, and looks nice. Mulch should be applied to your entire tree bed, about 4″ thick, but not touching the base of your tree. Piling mulch against the base of your tree is known as a “mulch volcano” and can weaken the trunk of your tree. The NJ Tree Foundation recommends mulching your tree twice a year.
3) Weed: Weeds compete with your tree for water and nutrients and also make your tree pit look unkept. Weeds can be removed by pulling the base of the plant upward and removing the plant, along with its roots.