Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Fall Tree Care In Florida

At this time of year your trees have a message for you, even though you might think they cannot speak. To "hear" what they have to say all you have to do is look at them. Do they look well-cared for and healthy? Fall is the ideal time for tree trimming, tree pruning and other forms of tree maintenance. If possible, you should start with tree maintenance while your trees are still young.

In Florida as in all places you are less likely to sustain damage to your trees and property when your trees are well-groomed. This is especially true when your trees are in close proximity to driveways, walkways, power lines and other buildings. Regular tree trimming also prevents branches from reaching the roof of your home. This is important because tree branches on the roof can cause mold and other fungi to develop. Errant branches can dislodge roofing tiles leading to leakage and rot damage to the lumber underneath.

It could be that your trees are doubling as an always-open cafeteria for some of our Florida wildlife. If you have a problem with various nibblers gnawing on your trees, trimming off low branches can cut off their access. In some circumstances, wild animals can cause extensive damage to trees, as well as to lawns and gardens. Wildlife damage problems can occur throughout the year, but the fall and winter months are times when food supplies and cover may become more limited for many wildlife species, causing them to find your home or landscape an attractive place to call home.

Cooler weather is here and winter is coming. Start preparing now for the cold temperatures. Any sort of extreme weather condition may pose a higher risk of stress for your trees, so cable, brace and prune them before the more significant cold weather comes. Pruning in fall can be easier because most trees have little to no leaves, exposing the structure underneath. If your tree has weakened or has broken or rotting branches, it may not be strong enough to withstand the chilly winds and rains of wintertime.

Cabling and bracing provide structural support for trees. Cabling or bracing trees may correct certain problems and make the trees reasonably safe.
The three main purposes for using structural support are:
1. Pro-active prevention of problems by providing structural support for healthy trees.
2. Mitigation to reduce the risk of a hazard from a tree with a potential problem.
3. Restoration to support a damaged tree.