- Myth #1: Topping is an accepted form of pruning. Fact: Pollarding, topping of trees, or vista pruning will ruin the natural form of a tree and should be avoided. Watersprout growth will emerge the next season from the top cuts resulting in an unsightly tree and will have to be pruned again and again, year after year. Pick the correct tree for the space considering a small or medium height tree. If you must vista prune consider pruning before it is overgrown for the space.
- Myth #2: The more mulch the better: Fact: Excessive mulch above the root collar or root flare can cause girdling or strangling roots and promote a shallow root system. Don't mulch too close to the trunk and add a "refreshing" layer each season for moisture retention and to reduce soil compaction.
- Myth #3: Filling cavities benefits trees. Fact: Cavity filling with cement will actually damage the tree further. Compartmentalization is a natural defense in trees by which they wall off decay in the wood.
- Myth #4: Painting wounds or cuts help healing. Fact: Painting holds moisture in, accelerating decay. Using roofing cement or tar will inhibit the healing or wound wood process. Leave the wound open and let the tree cover over the wound naturally. Trace the bark around a broken branch to hasten the healing process.
- Myth #5: Root systems should not be touched. Fact: Root pruning in certain instances can be beneficial to a plant stimulating flowering and growth. All plants are different and should be treated differently. Any damaged roots due to construction should be clean cut before backfilling.
- Myth #6: Pruning should be done only at certain times of the year. Fact: Pruning can be performed any time of year. Although there are certain times of the year certain trees should be avoided, you still can prune.
- Myth #7: Timing is not very important. Fact: Timing is very important. Every landscape is different, and plant needs change from day to day. Consistent monitoring of weather, property use, watering, fertilization, disease and insect control are examples of time-sensitive tree care operations.
- Myth #8: I can use my tree to hang a hammock or post a sign. Fact: Nails and screws in a tree will cause death and decay of wood around the obstruction. If you must cable go all the way through and bolt to the other side.
- Myth #9: Driving under a tree will not cause harm to my tree. Fact: Soil compaction is a slow tree damage process. In compacted soil, pore space has been reduced, and roots do not get enough oxygen. The tree will slowly decline and die with few or no other signs of the cause. Avoid soil compaction by aerating, mulching, and avoiding any other soil disruptions.
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