5 Ways to Try to Save Your Tree Before You Cut It Down

The trees around your house take years and decades to grow to their full size. Sometimes, trees have sentimental value and are as cherished by their owners as pets. When trees grow old or get sick, the only viable option might seem to just cut them down. Before doing this, however, consider that you have a couple of things you can do to save your tree. It will reward you with shade in the sun and a breath of fresh air.

5 Ways to Save Your Tree

Fix Watering Issues

When a tree is younger, it will be more dependent on you for water. Too much or too little water can hurt the tree. If there is a lack of drainage in the soil around the tree, you need to find an adequate way to provide it with more drainage. Younger trees tend to suffer more from underwatering. Whenever the weather is dry, take that time to water your tree until the soil takes longer to drain the water on the surface.

Mulch Problems

Mulch is very practical for homeowners and their yards, but it is not something that trees like. If you have placed too much mulch around the trunk of the tree, you have to thin it out or remove it altogether. This is because the mulch around the trunk can become a breeding ground to fungi and different bacteria that are not beneficial for the tree's health.

Careful with Fertilizers

When using fertilizers for your yard, avoid spraying them around your tree. Organic fertilizers can be good for trees as long as they are not derived from diseased plant material.

Pruning the Dying Parts

Sometimes to save a dying tree, you might have to prune the areas that are visibly damaged. It is easier to do this if the diseased parts are just the branches. Remove any diseased part of the tree to prevent it from spreading to the whole tree. Sterilize any instruments you use in the process. Have in mind that trees have different prune requirements, so always do your research beforehand or consult with a specialist.

Root Feeding

Sometimes in the winter, trees can dry out. Dried out and weak trees can be supported with root feeding through a water and fertilizer solution.

Saving Your Tree

Every single tree is worth saving. Besides protecting from the wind and sun, trees are our main sources of oxygen, clean air and cool temperatures in the summer. They are also very beautiful and create a pleasant environment to live in. If you can help it, always try to save a tree before cutting it down.

Tom James,