Why it’s bad: This creates a giant wound in the tree, inviting in all sorts of bacteria. Repeated injury keeps the tree from sealing over the wound. This can kill young trees, and certainly doesn’t help older ones!
How to fix it: Be careful! Mulching around the tree can help to keep a safe distance between lawnmowers. For weeds, try to weed by hand around the base of the tree.
Why its bad: String will eventually impede new growth and leave wounds if left on too long. Trees will try and grow around the string, which will cause injury to the tree.
How to fix it: Keep an eye out for string, tags, and other things hanging on the tree, and remove them before planting. It is much easier to remove string before planting than once it is in the ground!
Why its bad: Topping trees destroys the natural architecture of the tree. Once topped, the tree will send up SOS signals in the form of water sprouts. Water sprouts are weak, fast growing branches that are structurally unsound and will fail later on. Topping is unsightly and will harm your tree long term.
How to fix it: Do NOT top your tree! If you have overhead wires, think ahead by planting a tree that will get no bigger than 25 feet. Small growing trees will never reach electrical utility lines, preventing the utility company from topping your tree. A reputable tree service will not recommend topping trees, but will strategically prune away unwanted branches near houses and roofs.
Why its bad: A tree will grow around anything in its path! Leaving the ties on may strangle your tree, stopping the flow of water and nutrients from the roots to the crown.
How to fix it: Carefully remove as much of the arbor tie as possible without further damaging the tree. Leave tree stakes & ties on for one year only! Not every tree needs to be staked. Ask your tree planter to “stake as needed”.
Why it’s bad: It may not be bad.
How to fix it: We would cut off the tail of the bolt. Also helpful to temporarily brace the top of the tree while it seals.
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