Tree service company professionals in Naples, Florida, advise clients about what to do after a tree is removed.
Why Plant Again When A Tree Has Been Removed?
Whether a tree is dying, infected with tree disease, or simply growing in the wrong place, there comes a time when trees need to be cut down. This can feel particularly tragic if the tree has stood stalwart for generations, but all things must come to an end. When a tree is removed, it leaves a literal gaping hole in the yard, so something will need to be done to maintain soil, prevent erosion, and make the area visually pleasing.
It takes some planning and preparation, but it will be worth it when your new plants or trees are growing strong. This blog will discuss the steps that will get you to that end.
Preparing For Planting: Steps to Take Before Planting a New Tree
Stump grinding or removal is the final step in removing the tree from an area. Sometimes, leaving the stump is okay if the homeowner has a plan for it, but leaving the stump without proper care can lead to pest infestation and fungal problems that can harm other plants in the area. Stump grinding is a tree service that can typically be done in tandem with tree removal.
Once that process is complete and the largest part of the under-the-surface root system is removed, a homeowner can begin the real preparation.
- Add Soil: A homeowner should add loose soil until the hole is about two-thirds full.
- Water: Add water to the top third of the hole. This soil and water combination will help the process of root decay to begin/continue.
- Mulch: Organic mulch insulates the soil against moisture loss and temperature extremes, creating a more stable environment for replenishing nutrients to the soil. As it breaks down, this mulch can also help add nutrients to the soil.
- Wait: You cannot plant something right away. The roots that cannot possibly be removed need to be given time to soften and decay, and it may not be the best time of the year to plant. Keep these factors in mind and it may be up to a year before the area should be planted again.
- Monitor: Make sure the area stays free of harmful pests and fungal growth. Consult with an arborist about what you see, as some fungi are actually helpful in the decay process and do not affect living material.
What To Plant In Place of the Lost Tree
Once the ground is ready, there are many options for what to plant. Native plants and trees are always best, but which ones you plant will depend on soil type and drought tolerance. Here are a few general recommendations for planting post-tree removal.
- Bald cypress
- Live oak
- Red maple
- Southern magnolia
- Fruit trees such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons
- Native shrubs like the palmetto or beautyberry
- Groundcovers like lantana or confederate jasmine
- Grasses with drought-tolerant properties
Tree Health Care After Planting
One cannot simply plant a tree and leave it to “do its thing.” The best thing a homeowner can do for a freshly planted tree is to consult with professionals about care. Watering and mulching are important, but tree health is not in this alone. Tree care can include tree trimming for aesthetics and practical concerns and tree pruning for proper growth.
About Any Town Tree
Available for emergency tree service and tree risk assessment in Naples, FL, and beyond, Any Town Tree is a locally owned and operated company that offers quality work at a reasonable price. Call today for a free competitive estimate.