TREES NEW YORK RESOURCES
Water
the Tree.
Give young trees 15-20 gallons a week in late spring
through summer. This is critical to the tree's survival, especially during
hot, dry and/or windy weather. Allow the water to slowly soak into the
soil.
Cultivate
the Soil.
Mixing a 2-inch layer of humus into the soil enriches
the soil. It also loosens the soil to allow water to greely drain into
the soil and down to the roots.
Mulch the
Soil.
A mulch conserves moisture, deters weeds, and imporves
soil fertility when it decomposes. A 2 to 3 inch layer of shredded leaves
or coarse wood chips is perfect.
Remove Guide
Wires.
One year after planting, use wirecutters to eliminate
wires used to stake the tree. Remove tree grates before they strangle
the tree. Do not use tree cages or metal collars.
Prune the
Tree.
Beginning one year after planting, pruning improves
the health, appearance, and longevity of a tree. You must be a certified
Citizen Pruner to Prune Stree Trees. (For more information, click
here.)
Install Tree
Pit Guards.
While not in the City's new specifications, a wall
of railroad ties prevents feet from compacting the soil, hinders car door-bashing,
and deters dogs visits.
Plant Flowers.
Planting flowers will not only beautify the area but
will also indicate when the tree needs water. Impatiens, sweet alyssum,
English ivy are some plants to consider.
Respect Street
Trees.
Cutting into the bark, bashing the trunk with car doors
and bumpers, and breaking off branches all injure a tree. Trees do not
"heal" their injuries.
Curb Your
Dog.
Dog urine kills trees. Consider this: A street tree
may get visited by dogs dozens of times each day, thereby inundating it.
Please curb your dog.
Salt, Bleach,
and Oil.
Salt used to de-ice walkways in the winter, bleach
used to clean sidewalks, and motor oil are exceedingly lethal to trees.
Avoid getting these into the tree pits. Flush with water at end of winter
if pit is contaminated. (To see an illustration on how to do this, please
click here.
The information above is published for free distribution in the Trees New York publication "Tree Tips."