A tree can be a great addition to your yard. While it provides shade and appeal, a tree can also add value to your home. Of course, proper tree care is key if you want trees that are attractive and healthy. Thankfully, help is available. By understanding the truth about a few common myths, you will learn how to properly care for your trees.

Water Is Not Necessary Once Established

One of the biggest myths people believe is that they do not have to water their tree once it is established. It is important to remember that trees are living things, so they do require water to not only grow, but to thrive throughout the years.

The amount of water your tree needs depends on a few factors, including the type of tree you have planted, the location where it has been planted, and your local climate.

Certain trees are drought-resistant, so they do not require as much water as other trees. Also, if your tree is planted directly in the sun, you may need to water it more frequently than a tree planted in the shade.

Also, if you live in an area that experiences extremely high temperatures and very little rain, you will need to water your tree regularly.

Pruning Is For Looks Only

A lot of people believe pruning is only necessary to improve the look of a tree. While it does help create and maintain a specific shape and look, pruning can be essential to your tree's underlying health.

When deciding if it is time to prune a tree, even though it looks great, inspect the branches and foliage carefully. If you see any branches that are broken or damaged in anyway, remove them with your pruning shears.

Decaying, rotting wood, dark spots, and patches of grey, black, or brown growth are all indicators that your tree is in distress. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any limbs, branches, leaves, and flowers that are showing these signs. This pruning will stop the spread of fungal infections and even mold.

Not a Big Deal If Dead

A variety of conditions can lead to a tree's demise. It may become infested with pests or start rotting due to fungal growth over time. No matter what the cause, a tree's death should be taken seriously.

Many people feel that they can leave the dead tree in their yard because it fills up space in their landscape design. However, depending on the cause of the death, a dead tree can lead to further problems.

For example, the tree will shed dead foliage and broken limbs over time. These limbs can fall onto your house, causing enormous damage. Also, if the tree is infested with pests or infected with mold and fungus, the growth will most likely spread to other areas of your landscape.

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