10

My new yard has a lot of trees, probably 20-30. There are apple, pear, peach, pine, plum, and a few others. Most of them are fairly old (50+ years). Some of them don't seem to be very healthy (dead branches, withering/yellow leaves, etc.). Are there any tips or tricks for helping an unhealthy tree? How do I figure out what is wrong with them?

J. Musser
  • 52,241
  • 23
  • 122
  • 333
jdickson
  • 905
  • 1
  • 6
  • 14

1 Answers1

7

Generally speaking, established trees like it just the way it is. Grade changes, drainage changes, more foot or car traffic causing compaction; these are things that trees don't like.

That sounds like a lot of trees for a backyard. I've seen cases where previous owners liked trees and planted a lot of them. "They're so cute when they're small." After twenty years it can get a bit crowded as the trees fill in.

Things that you can do from easiest to harder:

  • look at the trees for pests and diseases
  • decide if there are any you do not want
  • top dress around each tree with good compost twice a year to a depth of 1/4" to 1/2 inch from the drip line to within 6" from the base of the tree. (Thanks @winwaed)
  • if the soil is compacted aerate yearly around the drip line of each tree (don't get too close to the trunk)
  • if it is dry during the summer, water them generously and thoroughly every two weeks
  • do a maintenance prune yearly or get an arborist in
kevinskio
  • 62,221
  • 9
  • 80
  • 167