Provo City

Plant Health Care

Tree Care
What is Plant Health Care?
Plant health care is a holistic approach to maintaining and improving a landscape’s appearance, vitality and safety. Plant Health Care utilizes the most cost effective and environmentally sensitive practices and treatments. It involves:  
·        Preventative care
·        Frequent monitoring
·        Early detection
·        Informed decision-making
·        Routine treatments
·        Environmental sensitivity
·        Professional landscapers and arborists working closely with clients
  
Prevention
Prevention is a major component of Plant Health Care. When it comes to trees, prevention is cheaper than cures. It is much easier to keep a tree healthy than to try and nurse it back to health. Homeowners should be aware of the following major tree problems and do their best to prevent them.  
 
Top Ten Tree Problems
  1. Mechanical Damage (from Lawn Mowers and etc.)
  2. Overwatering
  3. Improper Planting
  4. Drought and/or scorch
  5. Herbicide Misuses
  6. Boring Insects
  7. Aphids
  8. Box Elder Bugs
  9. Anthracnose
  10. Aspen Leaf Spot
 
 Solutions to Major Tree Problems
·        The best things you can do to protect your tree from mechanical damage is to leave a mulched ring 2-3 feet around the base of the tree trunk. This will protect the tree from lawn mower damage. It will also help your tree develop an extensive root system.
·        Learn about your tree and its water needs. As a general rule of thumb, established trees need deep watering once a week with low pressure to ensure that the ground is soaked to a depth of at least 12 inches. Young or new trees need a deep watering every 2 - 3 days. If all else fails go out and dig a little around your tree. If the soil still feels moist, do not water.  
·        Review the Provo City Tree Selection Guide & Tour before planting any tree. Review the mature height and width of the tree and make sure your tree of choice has adequate space to grow. Do not plant trees that are poorly adapted to your site’s conditions.
·        Don’t neglect your trees in the hot summer months. Also water trees in the fall and winter, as long as the ground is not frozen.
·        If you do not have a Pesticide Applicators License, do not apply herbicides to your landscape. Hire a professional.
·        If you suspect that your tree has boring insects, aphids, box elder bugs, anthracnose, or aspen leaf spot, contact a certified arborist ASAP.   
  

If you have more questions regarding Plant Health Care, 
Contact Us.