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How should I prune my
trees?
Using proper pruning techniques are extremely important to the
long-term health and viability of trees. Proper pruning methods
to encourage a good shape and strong structure in young trees
or removing dead wood or limbs from a mature tree both follow
basic rules that respect the biological make-up of trees and
their ability to seal wounds and continue to thrive. Always
use clean, sharp tools when making cuts. Pruning is best accomplished
during the tree's dormant season before new growth begins. Pruning
of young trees should be aimed at establishing a healthy growth
pattern for the new tree. Pruning of mature trees is best limited
to removal of dead or hazardous limbs. Topping a tree is NOT
proper pruning, and is not conducive to the long term health
of the tree. See below for information on why topping is bad
for a tree. For more information on how to properly prune a
tree, you may also visit the Virginia
Department of Forestry, USDA
Forest Service, or contact Fairfax County Urban Forest
Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
Why does the pruning
practice known as topping hurt trees?
"Topping" of trees is perhaps the most harmful tree
pruning practice known. By removing a large portion of the
tree's
upper leaves, new problems can be created. Topped trees are
more likely to suffer from stress and become vulnerable to
sun
damage, insects, disease and storms. If you have a tree that
has grown too large, there are ways to correctly prune to reduce
the tree crown without damaging the health of the tree. The
rapid re-growth of shoots on a topped tree is an indication
of stress and a weakened state of health. For appropriate methods
to reduce the height or spread of a tree, an arborist can determine
the best approach to pruning to preserve the tree's natural
beauty, health and safety for the surrounding environment.
For
more information, contact Fairfax County Urban Forest
Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
How can I
determine if a tree has become a hazard to my house or property?
Sometimes the hazard level posed by a tree is obvious when observing
a tree that is in poor health or leaning precariously. Other
times serious compromising conditions may exist within the tree
or tree root system that are not as obvious to the casual observer.
Following are some indications a tree may have a more serious
problem and the potential to create a hazard to the surrounding
environment:
- Dead branches on the tree or caught in other limbs
- Mushrooms present near the base of the tree
- Branches on the ground or excessive leaf loss
- Areas of rotten wood or cavities
- Nearby trees have died or have significant damage
- Noticeable change in the leaning of the tree
- Damage to ground surrounding tree from construction, erosion
or storms
Trees on private property are best handled by a qualified arborist.
Possible solutions may include pruning, providing external support
for weakened trees, remedial care or removal of the affected tree.
Additional information on hazardous trees can be found at the
USDA
Forest Service web site. You may also contact Fairfax County
Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
How can I manage
trees and turf and promote the continued health of both?
Trees and grass are healthier when they are not forced to compete
with each other. Both provide benefits to the environment,
but
when placed next to each other can result in problems to both
species. Grass at the base of a tree is often weak and thin.
The shade provided by the tree is not suitable for many types
of grasses. In addition, the roots of the tree, which are closer
to the surface, can disrupt the growth pattern of grasses.
In
return, grasses take away many nutrients and much need moisture
causing trees to weaken and produce poor growth. Trees may
also
be damaged by lawn equipment, causing wounds that allow disease
and insects a point of entry. The best approach is generally
to allow a mulched area around the perimiter of the drip line
of the tree. This keeps grass from competing with the tree
for
vital nutrients and moisture and reduces likelihood of damage
to both species. For more information, contact Fairfax County
Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
Why is proper mulching
of trees important and what are the proper techniques?
Proper mulching is extremely beneficial to the health and proper
growht of a tree. It helps to maintain moisture in dry summer
months, reduces weeds that draw away necessary nutrients, acts
as an insulation against extreme heat and cold, and provides
an aesthetically pleasing base for landscaping. Improper mulching,
however, can be the cause of stress and decline in a tree. For
instance, mulch that is too deep and piled high against the
truck of a tree may actually prevent the tree from receiving
adequate amounts of oxygen and water, cause excessive moisture
to be retained causing roots to rot, and may harbor insects
and other pests. Mulch should generally be applied in a 2"-4"
layer around the base of the tree, extending outward towards
the dripline. Avoid mulching directly against the base of the
tree; allow several inches between the base of the tree and
the surrounding mulch. Whenever possible, opt for organic mulches
to provide beneficial nutrients. For more information, contact
Fairfax County Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770,
TTY 711.
When buying
new trees, how can I be assured I'm buying high quality, healthy,
young trees?
When you buy a high quality tree, plant it correctly and care
for it properly, you and the tree benefit for many years. Look
for sturdy trees with strong branches, uniform shape and a
root
ball without torn roots. Avoid trees with obvious wounds and
that have been improperly pruned. Branches should be evenly
spaced and be solidly attached to the trunk. For best results,
choose a nursery with a solid reputation and one which offers
a guarantee of the tree after planting. For more information,
contact Fairfax County Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770,
TTY 711.
What
is the proper way to plant a tree?
The most common mistake made by non-professionals when planting
a tree is planting the root ball too low. This can cause long-term
developmental problems and stress to the growing tree, and can
eventually lead to the demise of the tree. The root collar (where
the lower trunk branches into roots) should never be planted
below the surrounding elevation of the soil. Another common
mostake is planting a tree in a hole too small for the roots
to spread and establish themselves. A good rule of thumb is
do dig a hole two to three times as wide as the root ball. Make
sure the surrounding soil is adequately loosened to allow roots
to establish. Place the tree in the prepared hole and ensure
the tree is straight from all sides. Gently backfill the hole
while keeping the tree level. Pack soil firmly to eliminate
air pockets which can dry out roots. If the tree is in an area
where wind is a concer, staking may be necessary. Provide a
2"-4" layer of mulch around the base of the tree,
taking care to avoid packing mulch against the trunk. Water
the tree at least weekly - more frequently in extremely hot
temperatures. Watch the tree for signs of distress; if the tree
exhibits signs of distress, contact your retailer or a certified
arborist. For additional informaiton on proper tree planting
techniques, visit the Virginia
Department of Forestry or call Fairfax County Urban Forest
Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
How
do I choose the right tree species for the right location?
Certain tree species are more tolerant and adaptable than others,
but planting a tree in a location that is in close harmony with
its naturally evolved tolerances helps to promote tree health
and longevity. The planting locations should have characteristics
and conditions similar to those where the proposed tree species
has evolved genetic adaptations for those specific conditions.
Some of these natural adaptations would be for certain soil
characteristics, wet or dry conditions or for shade or sun conditions.
The urban forest environment often presents conditions not found
in nature, such as reflected heat, road salts introduced into
the root zones and roots restricted by asphalt or other constructed
barriers. Certain trees have been found to be more tolerant
of the urban environment than others. For an extensive list
of common native and ornamental trees and their specific environmental
requirements and tolerances, see
our Public Facilities Manual Table 12.7. You may also wish
to visit the Virginia
Department of Forestry for additional tips and information
or contact Fairfax County Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770,
TTY 711.
My tree
looks stressed and strange; what's wrong with it?
A healthy tree has many built-in methods of resisting normal
insect and disease invasions. A tree may become stressed from
physical changes in the root zone or from other environmental
factors that affect the basic requirements of the tree including
light, oxygen to the roots, water and the balance of essential
nutrients. A stressed tree then becomes more vulnerable and
unable to sustain the needed resistance to insect and disease
invasion. Identifying causes of tree stress and mitigating them
early can help a tree to resist or fight harmful agents. A certified
tree professional can identify causes of stress and make recommendations
to mitigate the stressful situation, and detail treatments for
any pests and disease present on the tree. For more information
on identifying common insect and disease symptoms in trees visit
the Virginia
Department of Forestry or call Fairfax County Urban
Forest Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
How do
trees benefit us, our property, our community and our environment?
Benefits from trees are realized on many different levels and
perspectives. Most urban trees are planted to make the constructed
landscape appear softer, shadier and more attractive. At the
same time, trees can provide energy savings, help to improve
air and water quality, moderate temperature and other valuable
contributions to the quality of our lives. They can also contribute
to property values. For more information, contact Fairfax
County Urban Forest Management at 703-324-1770, TTY 711.
What DPWES division is responsible
for the management of trees in Fairfax County?
The Urban Forest Management provides assistance to citizens
and companies doing business in Fairfax County. Its primary
function is to enforce regulations regarding preservation and
planting of trees along with parking lot landscaping, screening,
and tree cover. Urban Forest Management is located the
the Herrity Building, 12055 Government Center Parkway, 5th Floor,
Fairfax, Virginia, 22035, Telephone 703-324-1770, TTY
711.
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