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Ten Tips to Help Your Trees Thrive and
Survive |
The City of Toronto has an aggressive goal to increase
our tree canopy from 17% to 35%. Toronto’s trees exist
in conditions quite different from those of a natural
forest setting. We need to provide them with special
care against the harsh urban environment. Follow
LEAF's ten tips below to help your trees survive and
thrive.
Plant the right tree in the right place.
Ensure adequate above and below ground space, as well as
appropriate species for the site conditions.
Water regularly. A slow, deep watering once a
week for mature trees and twice a week for young trees.
Use a hose at the base of the tree on a slow drip or a
soaker hose wrapped in concentric circles.
Protect the trunk from lawn mower damage and
improve your soil quality by maintaining a wide circle
of mulch around the base. Ensure mulch is not touching
the base of the tree. Apply in a 2-inch deep
doughnut-shape as far out as possible.
Avoid tying, nailing or attaching anything to trees.
Even string can cut off the flow of water and nutrients
and strangle a tree. If trees are staked, remove all
staking materials after one year.
Avoid digging, tilling or excavating around or near
trees. Root damage may take a few years to become
evident but can be fatal. 90% of a tree’s roots are in
the top 18 inches of soil and can extend up to three
times the width of the canopy.
Avoid the use of de-icing salt in winter.
Salt applied to driveways, walkways, and other areas
eventually migrates down into the surrounding soil. This
can cause serious damage to trees – even those located
several meters away. Chop away ice and use sand instead.
Watch for early signs of stress. Look for
weak foliage, discolouration, early leaf loss or visible
signs of pests or disease. Identify the specific problem
and environmental stresses that may be contributing
factors before attempting treatments.
Use organic alternatives to chemical pesticides and
fertilizers on lawns and trees. Improve your
soil by adding organic matter each spring and fall.
Sprinkle a 1-inch layer of compost on the ground out as
far as the branches reach.
Use only proper pruning techniques and never use
wound paint. Proper pruning cuts will seal
themselves. Do your research before making any cuts and
never try to keep a large tree small by pruning or
topping it.
Consult a certified arborist for pruning, to
diagnose and treat problems, to prevent damage when
planning construction or renovations and for
preventative care of mature trees. Be sure the
individual working on your trees is a qualified
arborist, certified by a recognized association such as
the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the
American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA). Also be
sure they have adequate insurance.
For more information, contact LEAF at 416-413-9244 or
visit www.leaftoronto.org
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