As homeowners, we often focus on planting new trees and nurturing them to maturity. We talk about the arrival of spring, the new growth of buds on trees, and the excitement of watching our young trees take root.
However, mature trees can be just as worthwhile of an investment. From having full-size trees brought in to supporting your landscape’s trees as they grow from sapling to senior, mature trees have a story to tell – and a beautiful way of elevating your yard.
While these older trees can often be sturdier than their younger counterparts, that doesn’t happen by accident – and isn’t the case through till old age. They do require some extra care and attention, especially as they get up there in years.
To help you make the most of your landscaping and to prolong the lifespan of your landscape, we are sharing six practical tips on how to care for mature trees
What Is A Mature Tree?
In general, a mature or adult tree is one that has reached its full size and has undergone significant growth and development.
While the definition of a mature tree can vary depending on the species, a tree is generally considered mature when it has reached its maximum height and width, and is capable of producing seed or fruit.
Mature trees are typically more resilient and better able to tolerate environmental stressors than younger trees. Still, there comes a point when even these strong trees need attention, so below you’ll find our tips on how to set your trees up for as long a life as possible.
6 Tips For Mature Tree Care
- Consider the environment before planting
It’s important to take the age of the tree into consideration when choosing a location for planting.
When selecting a location for a mature tree, it’s important to consider factors such as the tree’s size, its root system, and its overall health. For example, if the tree is large and has a deep root system, it may not be able to adapt to shallow or poorly drained soil.
- Care for newly planted trees
While all trees need adequate care and maintenance, newly planted trees require even more attention, no matter their age.
This is especially true for mature trees that have been recently transplanted. These trees will need to be watered regularly and may require extra protection from the elements.
It’s important to avoid overwatering mature trees, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
- Regular pruning
Pruning is essential to maintaining the health and structure of a mature tree.
Regular pruning helps to remove diseased or damaged branches, reduce the risk of falling limbs, and promote healthy growth.
When pruning a mature tree, it’s important to take its age and size into consideration. Older trees may have weaker branches that are more susceptible to damage, and may require more frequent pruning than younger trees.
Additionally, mature trees may require more specialized pruning techniques to avoid damage to the trunk or roots.
- Removing suckers and water sprouts
Suckers and water sprouts are unusual branches that can weaken a mature tree and should be removed as soon as possible.
Older trees may be more susceptible to these growths, as they are more likely to experience stress due to environmental factors or root damage.
Regularly check your property’s mature trees for suckers and water sprouts then remove them promptly to prevent further damage.
- Protecting mature trees from animals
Mature trees are more susceptible to damage from animals than younger trees. This is because they often have larger, more developed trunks and branches that can be attractive to animals looking for food or shelter.
There are a few steps you can take to protect mature trees from animal damage, such as installing barriers or using repellents.
- Mature tree inspections
Professional evaluations by a tree service professional are essential to maintaining the health and longevity of a mature tree.
A company like Beautiful Country Tree Service can help inspect the tree for signs of disease or damage, assess its overall health and vitality, and provide guidance on any necessary maintenance or treatment.
For mature trees, regular evaluations are particularly important as they may be more susceptible to diseases or pests due to their age and weakened immune systems.
Working With Beautiful Country Tree Service For Mature Tree Care
Caring for mature trees can seem like a daunting task, but it’s crucial to ensure their longevity and health.
If you have mature trees on your property, or are considering having some planted, it’s important to work with experienced professionals to prolong their lifespan. That’s where the talented team of arborists at Beautiful Country Tree Service comes in.
Let us help you keep your mature trees healthy and beautiful for generations to come. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you care for the mature trees on your property.