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| >HOME >SERVICES/PERMITS >STREET TREE INFORMATION | |||
How to Care for Your Newly Planted Street Tree Constant care is required during the first year after planting. By careful observation and maintenance your new tree will stand a better chance of survival. Water During transplanting, many new tree roots are removed. Make sure to water your tree at least once a week, or as needed, during periods of high heat and drought. Each watering requires 10-12 gallons of water. Water slowly, letting the water soak into the ground. Keep the ground moist and don't over water. If the leaves start to turn yellow, ease up on the watering. Stop the watering when the ground freezes, there is no need to water at this time, for the tree starts to harden off for the dormant season. Tree Pit Keep the tree pit clean and free of all weeds, grasses and volunteer growth. All plants compete for air, water and nutrients especially in the first 6 inches of soil, thus greatly impeding the tree's ability to survive. Many weeds and other woody plants also produce toxic chemicals which can be harmful to the tree. Remove bottles, cans or other trash from the tee pit so air and water can reach the roots. Be particularity careful of any toxic chemicals such as motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline and even deicing salts. Compaction Avoid soil compaction in the tree pit. Compacted soil hinders water and air from getting to the roots. If compaction occurs, gently loosen the soil. Be careful not to disturb any roots and apply a layer of mulch. Mulch Mulch the newly planted tree to a depth of 3" with organic matter such as pine bark, leaf litter or hardwood mulch. Mulching will help conserve moisture, control weeds, protect roots from extremes of heat and cold and make the tree pit more attractive. Pets Keep pets away from the tree. Animal urine can injure and may kill newly planted trees. Cats have used trees as scratching posts, injuring the bark. Bark Protection Protect your tree's bark. Keep all lawn mowers, weed trimmers and car doors away from the trunk. Do not allow anyone to chain a bicycle or staple or nail ads on your tree's trunk. Stakes and wires To avoid strangling your tree, remove all stakes and wires on your tree's first birthday. Check branches Check for any dead, broken or diseased branches on your tree and prune if necessary. Never prune for shape or corrective action until after at least 2 years after planting. How to Care for Your Mature Street Tree Periodic inspection of mature street trees is recommended to keep trees healthy. Tree Inspection When inspecting trees, look for the vigor of the tree. Check for size and color of leaves and buds. Are there any signs of insects, past or present? Check for rot or cavities in the trunk or branches. Don't forget to see if any roots show signs of damage. Mulch can help a tree in a stressful location. Apply 3" of mulch around the tree so it can will help control mechanical damage from lawn mowers and weed trimmers. Do not pile the mulch up against the trunk of the tree. Also add organic matter to the surrounding tree pit. In the fall or early spring fertilize your tree with a complete fertilizer consisting of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium. Different trees have different fertility requirements, so be sure that you apply the correct fertilizer at the proper rate. The Penn State Extension Service has fertilizing suggestions for your reference. Always check the tree for dead or broken branches which may pose a danger to the public. Notify the Fairmount Park Commission immediately for an inspection. Again, The Fairmount Park Commission has jurisdiction over all park and street trees in the City of Philadelphia. Before any planting, removal, pruning or any other work on any street trees, please contact the Fairmount Park Commission. Contact Info: Tel 215-685-4363 |
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