5 DIY Tree Care Tips for Bell Gardens Homeowners

While professional care is crucial for maintaining healthy trees, there’s a lot that Bell Gardens homeowners can do themselves. Here are five simple yet effective tips to keep your trees thriving:

1. Mulch Matters:

Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around your trees, but keep it away from the trunk. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. In our hot Bell Gardens summers, proper mulching can be a lifesaver for your trees.

2. Water Wisely:

Despite drought conditions, trees need consistent watering. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. For most established trees in Bell Gardens, a good soaking once a week is better than light daily watering.

3. Prune with Purpose:

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. For small trees, use clean, sharp pruning shears and make cuts at a 45-degree angle just outside the branch collar. However, leave large branches and high work to the professionals.

4. Monitor for Pests:

Keep an eye out for signs of infestation like holes in leaves, sawdust-like material on the bark, or sudden leaf drop. Early detection is key to managing pests common in our area, like the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer.

5. Protect the Root Zone:

Avoid compacting the soil around your trees. This means no parking cars or heavy equipment under the tree canopy. Also, be cautious when doing construction or landscaping near trees – root damage can have long-lasting effects.

Concluding Remarks.

Remember, these tips are general guidelines. Each tree species has unique needs, and factors like age, location, and overall health play a role in proper care. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult with a certified arborist.

At ‘Complete Tree Care – Bell Gardens’, we’re always happy to provide advice tailored to your specific trees and situation. Together, we can keep Bell Gardens’ urban forest healthy and thriving!