GARDENING BY THE MOON
By: Dr. Robert E. Moon Harvest Horticulturist
When I drive into a beautiful area, the first thing that impresses me is the trees! Trees in established HOA’s are majestic and beautiful. When driving these areas, you might think that these are native trees but in most areas, these are trees that were planted when the development first started and they grew and made the area beautiful as they matured. So, what can you do in your area to help your trees grow into majestic, beautiful trees?
If you lose a tree, replant the tree. The freeze last year killed and severely damaged many trees. I know it is an expense to plant a tree, but it is worth the money to replant. If your tree was severely damaged and you had to cut the entire top of the tree out to remove dead wood, it should be replaced.
Due to the amount of freeze damage to trees from last year and just as a good horticultural practice, spray your entire tree with Neem Oil to control overwintering insects, mites and some diseases. Apply in February or March. Follow label instructions for applying.
Also, apply Bayer Bio-Advanced Granular Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed. This Bayer product has a systemic insect control as well as plant food. Apply in February or March as per label. Both the Neem Oil and this product will help prevent insect attack throughout the summer.
If your trees are healthy and have no signs of freeze damage or freeze cracks to the trunk, apply 1/2 pound of lawn fertilizer per inch trunk diameter to keep trees healthy and vigorous. Apply in February or March and again in the summer and fall. To measure the diameter of your tree, measure the width of the tree 6 inches above ground level. Spread fertilizer evenly around tree from trunk out to the drip line of the tree.
I know you have heard me say this before, but check the guy wires on your tree often and remove all wires and stakes if tree is well rooted. Absolutely do not allow the guy wires to cut into the tree trunk.
Water your established trees once or twice a week in the summer. During establishment, newly planted trees may need more water during the heat of the summer but do not over water.
Remove all root sprouts and sucker growth from the tree. Canopies can be lifted so you can walk under the tree.
Last but not least, hug your tree! Just kidding. But monitor your trees closely to observe any insect or disease problems.
If you love old, grand neighborhoods for their beautiful, majestic trees, do your part to raise healthy, vigorous trees so one day people will admire your neighborhood!