Caring for Your Arizona Pine Trees
Pine trees aren’t just a Christmas-season thing. They can make a beautiful addition to your yard all year long even in Arizona’s dry climate!
But your pine tree might struggle with the hot weather. We’ve put together this guide to show you a few tips that’ll make caring for Arizona pine trees simple and rewarding.
Let’s get started!
1. Give It Water (But Only at the Right Time)
Pine trees don’t need a lot of water. They can usually get by with whatever rainfall the area gets a year, but that’s not quite true in Arizona.
Since Arizona is so dry, you may need to help your tree out during particularly warm or dry months. During these times, water your pine once or twice a week, and keep going until the soil around the trunk is nice and moist.
If the pines start turning brown, it’s not getting enough water. Either water more often or give the tree more during a watering.
2. Build a Mulch Base Around the Trunk
Create a large base of mulch around the trunk of your tree (at least 18″). This will absorb the water and deliver it to the tree’s roots more slowly, which helps mimic natural rainfall. The mulch will also prevent weeds from growing under your tree and distracting from the natural beauty of your pine.
3. Use the Proper Fertilizer
Fertilizing your tree will ensure it stays full and healthy as it grows, but make sure you choose the right type. If your pine tree is only a year or two old, you should use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid harming the roots. Older trees can use a quick-release fertilizer, though.
4. Don’t Go Overboard With Pruning
Once they reach a certain age, pine trees stop growing new branches from the center of the trunk. If you over prune your tree, you’ll end up with bald spots that won’t go away for years and years.
The only reason you should prune your pine tree is to control the shape, remove dead branches, or cut off diseased limbs. Other than that, your tree doesn’t require a lot of pruning.
5. Keep an Eye out for Diseases or Pest Problems
Get into the habit of inspecting your pine for any diseases or pests every once in a while. If you ever spot any warning signs, you should start treating them right away.
It’s a good idea to call a professional to help with this job. They’ll be able to diagnose the issue and find the right solution, such as fungicides or pesticides.
Caring for Arizona Pine Trees: How to Keep Them Healthy and Full
In most cases, pine trees don’t need a lot of attention, but there are a few times you’ll need to step in and give them a helping hand. This will ensure your tree stays as healthy and beautiful as possible.
Need some help caring for Arizona pine trees?
Don’t wait to give Jose a call! Tell us about your worries or needs, and we’ll help you come up with a plan that’ll keep your tree growing.
Prune Infected Areas
In some cases, you might be able to cut off the infected branches and prevent the disease from spreading any farther. But this doesn’t always work.
It’s a good idea to prune your tree often to remove any dead or dying branches. This will help keep the diseases and pests away from the start.
Have an Expert Take a Look
Call an expert to come and examine your tree. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best treatment plan. Even if you think you know what’s wrong, it’s still a good idea to get a professional opinion to ensure you aren’t missing something.
How to Find the Right Help for Your Tree
Unfortunately, there isn’t a way to cure many of these pine tree diseases. If the affliction has spread too far, the only option might be to remove the tree in order to keep the disease or pests from spreading. To avoid injury and other safety concerns, you should find an Arizona professional to take care of this step.
Not sure where to find the right help?
From treating your tree to cutting it down, Jose can give you the best tree service in the Mesa area. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Jose today!