By Sam Pusey
With green leaves and dark shades, trees enhance their surroundings. Australia has several native tree species that are important to preserve. Landscape designers and homeowners can benefit from understanding how to care for and manage them. Many trees are noted for their aesthetic value in large landscapes.
The City of Melbourne manages over 70,000 trees. While there are various reasons for maintaining trees in urban areas, the benefits extend beyond aesthetics. Trees provide numerous social, economic, and environmental advantages for a relatively small investment.
Tree Management Plans
Plant the right tree in the appropriate location
Select a tree suitable for your area and find a spot with sufficient sunlight and space for its mature canopy. Ensure it is not planted too close to underground utility lines, power lines, or buildings. Avoid planting the tree too deeply.
Provide adequate water
Like other plants, trees require watering. During extended dry periods, check if your tree needs water. Mature trees typically need an inch of water weekly, whereas new trees require 40 to 100 litres per week during their first growing season.
Apply mulch
Mulch helps insulate the roots, reduce weeds, and retain soil moisture. It also protects from lawn mower damage. Remove grass from under the tree and spread 100mm of mulch without covering the base of the trunk. Mulch materials include newspaper, shredded leaves, wood chips, herbs, and manure.
Fertilise when necessary
Trees may face nutrient deficiencies. Fertilising supports their growth and overall health.
Protect the trunk
Damage to the bark and trunk from lawnmowers can weaken trees and attract pests and diseases. Young trees can be protected with plastic wraps available at garden centres and nurseries.
Pruning and trimming
Pruning removes unnecessary branches while trimming promotes healthy growth. Trees generally require pruning and trimming between fall and spring. Consult a local arborist for proper techniques.
Arbocraft Tree Services specialises in tree management. We use internationally accredited systems to assess tree risks and provide quality services to help manage and monitor tree health. Contact us for assistance in managing and reducing tree-associated risks.