Tree service professionals of Florida know how to help your trees grow to their full potential.
Help! Why Isn’t My Tree Growing?
Florida is known for its lush flora, so when a newly planted tree doesn’t seem to be thriving, it can be frustrating as a homeowner. This is especially true when you consider that mature trees can improve home value and curb appeal. Some growth factors can be improved and some cannot, so a homeowner should know what is in their control to change.
Tree Growth Factors that Are Outside Human Control
Different species of trees grow at different rates. If you have chosen a tree for its look and not its fast growth, then that may be why it is not growing as quickly as you would like. Trees also have vastly different lifespans. Trees slow their growth as they get older, and may just be near the end of its growth cycle. Soil and climate preferences are also important for a tree to thrive. If you have chosen something that is not native to the area, it may have difficulty growing.
Tree Growth Factors that Are Within Human Control
There are steps that a homeowner can take in tree care that can boost tree health. Consulting with a tree service company that has an ISA certified arborist is a great first step toward healthy trees.
Some of the other steps include:
- Watering: Overwatering trees is a common mistake that stunts growth. Trees do need a lot of water, but they need to receive it slowly. Using a soaker hose is best and only if the soil around them is dry, usually every two weeks or so.
- Planting: Make sure the soil is not covering the root crown. That is the largest part of the trunk at the base of the tree.Covering this can smother the tree and can promote tree disease, fungal infection and pest infestation.
- Tree Pruning: Pruning is a method to help your tree grow healthier, but it can be overdone. It is best to hire an experienced pro to ensure that you don’t overdo it.
- Mulching: Mulch is a valuable resource for adding nutrients to the soil slowly and protecting the roots of a tree against extreme temperature changes, but it must be used correctly. Mulch should not cover the trunk of the tree, but should form a ring or doughnut around the base of the tree, covering the roots. The depth should be between 2 and 4 inches.
- Fertilizing: Test the soil first to see what it needs and don’t fertilize a tree that doesn’t have established roots. This can be detrimental to growth.
Trees That Are Perfect for Your Yard
If you are looking for just the right tree for your Florida yard, the trees listed below are good choices for this area of the country. The live oak lives for centuries and needs lots of space to grow, but the other choices can fit in most yard spaces.
- Bougainvillea
- Live Oak
- Southern Magnolia
About Any Town Tree
Any Town Tree offers free competitive estimates for their customers, serving Naples, FL and the surrounding communities. We are experts at tree removal and stump grinding and offer emergency tree service. Call today for more information.