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The following information is from the New Jersey Tree Foundation:
- Water once a week through the fall until the ground freezes. Apply water slowly so it absorbs into the soil and does not run off. A slow trickle of water from a hose for half an hour will supply a good amount of moisture. Proper watering in the fall reduces winter damage to your trees.
- Grass and weeds compete for the same water and nutrients as your trees. Remove any grass or weeds growing in the tree bed, but leave fallen leaves since they provide nutrients to the tree as they decompose. If you plan on planting flowers in your tree bed, place them around the perimeter away from the tree.
- Mulching is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your trees. It helps the soil hold water for the tree’s roots and reduces grass and weeds. Mulch also adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Maintain a ring of mulch 2-3 inches deep and keep mulch 4-5 inches away from the trunk of the tree. Make sure to pull back or remove old mulch before adding new.
- Guard your tree against vandalism such as breaking of the branches and cutting of the bark. Keep animals, sidewalk and road salt, and litter out of the tree bed. Never nail or staple anything to your tree as this causes severe damage, and don’t put trash in any tree pit.
Click here for more info from the New Jersey Tree Foundation.
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