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CAN A DYING TREE BE SAVED?

large autumnal maple tree with blue sky background and green forest

It's crucial to act quickly if your tree is sick. Continue reading to learn what can be done to save a dying tree!

IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM

You won't be capable of saving trees if you're initially unable to identify the reason for their compromised health. One of the main reasons for a tree's poor health is unsuitable environmental conditions. This can be due to the soil, pollution, amount of sun exposure, or a host of other reasons. It's vital to understand the tree species' preferred environment. Another major reason for dying trees is disease. Entering the tree through leaves, roots, and bark wounds, a virulent disease left untreated, can cause severe damage to a tree's vascular system.

A tree under stress produces less sap to ward away pests. And these harmful insects can cause further damage. Contamination, natural disasters, and old age are other common reasons.


HAVE YOUR SICK TREE PRUNED BY A PROFESSIONAL

A dying tree receives a massive boost when pruned because it can now direct its resources to the remaining branches. It's hard to know exactly where the disease has spread, but you can remove the visibly sick areas in a bid to stop the disease from spreading.


Be aware that various pruning techniques are each applicable to different species. And pruning too much can put your tree into shock. Equipment should be sterilized before and after pruning the tree to avoid spreading harmful microorganisms.


WATERING AND FERTILIZING ARE KEY

A simple way to save trees is by developing a good watering and fertilizing habit. A lack of water can kill a young tree, while too much water can also have the same effect.


If there's too much water in the soil around the tree, you should devise a plan to drain the water away. If there's not enough water, you can place a garden hose at the base of the tree every couple of weeks. Leave it on, running slowly overnight to replenish the tree.


Choose a fertilizer that is rich in potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. You can prepare your own organic fertilizer but don't include any diseased plant or tree remains in it.


Avoid adding the fertilizer directly to a tree's root. Instead, sprinkle it around the dripline of the tree. Read more about the dos and don'ts of fertilizing.


Mulch can also help your tree return to optimal health, but don't add too much because the roots need enough air and space to breathe.


IS YOUR TREE BEYOND SAVING? CALL ALL SEASON TREE SERVICE IN ALBERTA

If it's still alive, all is not yet lost. Your half-dead tree can be brought back to full health by identifying and treating the problem. Contact us today for a free estimate!Our professional arborist will visit your property and help you figure out if your tree is beyond saving.



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