General Healthy Tree Care Techniques & Tips

General healthy tree care techniques encompass a range of practices to promote growth, prevent disease, and maintain structural integrity. Adequate hydration fosters robust root systems and resilience against drought or extreme temperatures. Beyond hydration and nutrition, pruning stands as a cornerstone of effective tree care. Strategic trimming shapes tree form and enhances air circulation, reduces disease risk, and prevents hazardous limb failure. Mulching is vital in this regard, moderating soil temperature, retaining moisture, and inhibiting weed growth that competes for essential nutrients. Read on for more details on the care tips and techniques for trees.

Assess The Tree's Water Needs

Newly planted trees require more frequent watering until they establish their root system, typically within the first two years. On the other hand, established trees need less frequent but deeper watering to encourage profound root growth.

Deep Watering

Ensure the water reaches at least 12-18 inches into the soil to reach the root zone. Shallow watering encourages shallow roots and can stress the tree. Also, avoid overwatering, which could cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and root rot, which are indicators of overwatering. 

Watering Techniques

Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to deliver water slowly and deeply. You can also create a basin around the tree's drip line (the edge of the tree canopy) to hold water. Fill the basin and allow the water to soak in.

Soil Moisture Test

Use a soil probe or a simple screwdriver to check soil moisture. If the soil is dry 6-12 inches below the surface, it's time to water.

Summer Pruning

This helps control the tree's size and shape by slowing its growth. It is also helpful in removing water sprouts and suckers, which are vigorous, undesirable shoots that can drain the tree's energy. This is typically done in mid to late summer.

Winter Pruning

Winter pruning, often called dormant pruning, is ideal for removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches and shaping the tree for the next growing season. This is typically done in late winter before the new growth starts in early spring. Fall is generally not a suitable time to prune trees. This is because cuts made in the fall do not heal as quickly as those made in other seasons, increasing the risk of disease and decay.

Proper Mulching

Here are the steps involved in appropriate tree mulching:

1.  Use organic materials like wood chips, bark, compost, or shredded leaves.

2.  To prepare the area, remove weeds and grass around the tree base. Then, clear a circle around the tree, ideally extending to the tree's drip line (the edge of the tree canopy).

3.  Spread mulch evenly around the tree, maintaining a 2-4 inch layer. Keep mulch 3-6 inches from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and rot.

4.  Replenish mulch annually or as needed to maintain the 2-4 inch layer and avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk, often called "volcano mulching."

Keep Your Trees Healthy On The South Shore, MA With Elliott Tree

Elliott Tree's expertise in tree care can help maintain the health and beauty of your landscape. Our team of skilled arborists and horticulturists is dedicated to providing top-notch services in tree watering, pruning, and mulching. With years of experience and a commitment to sustainable practices, we ensure that your trees receive the best care tailored to their needs. Let us help you create a healthier, greener, and more vibrant outdoor space. With many years of serving the South Shore, we are proud of our tree care and work. Get started by filling out our contact form and give us a quick call at 781-447-0045.


By 7016315488 August 14, 2025
Trees play a big role in the beauty, shade, and health of a landscape, but keeping them in good shape requires more than just watering. Two of the most common services homeowners are familiar with are tree trimming and tree pruning . While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually serve different purposes. Understanding the difference between trimming and pruning can help maintain healthier trees, improve curb appeal, and even prevent potential property damage. Here's a breakdown of how these services differ and when each one is needed. Get The Right Tools Before you commit to refining the landscaping of your yard, it is important to gather the right equipment. First, you’ll find that a trustworthy lawnmower is truly your yard’s best friend. You can find a great, basic electric lawn mower for less than $200; this is the perfect choice for those with small to medium-sized yards or first-time property owners who are learning to navigate lawn care. Those with larger yards should consider investing in a riding lawn mower, which can run you anywhere from $1,800 to $5,000 on average. Other helpful tools you’ll need for your lawn care journey are: Weed whacker; Rake; Garden hose; Pruning shears; Wheelbarrow Carpenter’s trash bags or large paper lawn and leaf bags. Having these general items in your household will allow you to make necessary adjustments and fixes to your lawn, even if you plan on hiring a landscaping contractor to routinely address your needs. Give Your Lawn Some TLC A healthy lawn is the foundation of an incredible yard. Put the above tools to good use by, first and foremost, regularly mowing your lawn. Avoid cutting more than one-third of your grass landscape’s height at once, and commit to occasional, long watering sessions that can properly nurture the soil rather than running your sprinklers daily. It is also important to use a high-quality lawn fertilizer at least twice a year to infuse your landscape with the nutrients it needs to thrive throughout the seasons. Don’t Forget The Flowers Flowers add a natural artistic feature to your yard, creating a charming, colorful space that is bright and inviting. If you’re not familiar with gardening, go for flowers such as daylilies or other perennials that don’t require much upkeep. It is always best to include a variety of native plants in your flower garden, as they respond well to the local climate. Add Some Hardscaping Features Hardscaping, like walkways and decorative stone areas, can elevate your outdoor space from ordinary to extraordinary. The features provide structure and allow you to create zones in your backyard. Add a small gravel pathway that leads from your patio to the side entrance of your home to reduce foot traffic on your lawn; create a simple fire pit that encourages gathering and conversation. Utilize Tree Care Services While many aspects of your home are manageable through DIY methods, tree maintenance is a part of landscaping that requires a professional touch. Dead and dying trees must be properly removed through skilled technique to ensure maximum safety. Pruning and trimming measures should be handled by experts to encourage healthy tree growth and fantastic aesthetics. An experienced arborist can identify potential and existing issues before they exacerbate, saving you money and your property from disaster. Reach Out To Elliott Tree Today!  Elliott Tree is the Whitman, MA area’s go-to tree care resource, offering must-have services like tree removal , stump grinding , and even firewood sales . We have a passionate team of arborists who are happy to take on your tree care needs, whether you’re looking for residential services or require a total commercial restoration. Connect with us today and receive a service estimate!
By 7016315488 July 15, 2025
Trees play a big role in the beauty, shade, and health of a landscape, but keeping them in good shape requires more than just watering. Two of the most common services homeowners are familiar with are tree trimming and tree pruning . While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually serve different purposes. Understanding the difference between trimming and pruning can help maintain healthier trees, improve curb appeal, and even prevent potential property damage. Here's a breakdown of how these services differ and when each one is needed. What Is Tree Trimming? Tree trimming focuses on maintaining a tree’s shape and appearance. Overgrown branches can appear messy and may obstruct sunlight or interfere with nearby structures. Trimming helps control the tree’s size, keeps it looking clean, and encourages even growth. It’s commonly used for aesthetic reasons, primarily for trees and shrubs in landscaped areas. Regular trimming also helps improve airflow and light penetration, which supports healthier plants underneath the tree. It’s typically done once or twice a year, depending on the species and growth rate. What Is Tree Pruning? Pruning is primarily concerned with the health and safety of the tree. It involves the selective removal of dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote stronger structure and long-term growth. Pruning also helps prevent the spread of disease and reduces the risk of falling limbs during storms. There are various pruning techniques, depending on the goal, such as thinning the canopy, removing hazardous limbs, or shaping young trees for optimal growth. Timing is also important, as pruning at the wrong time of year can stress the tree. Trimming vs. Pruning Trim when the goal is to shape the tree, improve its appearance, or keep branches away from structures and walkways. Prune when branches are dead, broken, or diseased, or when the tree needs help developing a stronger framework. Both services work together to maintain healthy, attractive trees and a safer outdoor environment. Elliott Tree Is the Best Choice for Tree Removal Services in Whitman, MA When it comes to tree care, precision and experience matter. Elliott Tree brings both to every job, offering expert trimming, pruning, and full tree removal when needed. With a team that understands the needs of different tree species and local climate conditions, Elliott Tree ensures trees are maintained safely and professionally. Whether it’s routine care or emergency removal, homeowners can trust Elliott Tree to get the job done right, leaving yards cleaner, safer, and looking their best.
By 7016315488 July 11, 2025
Tree services like tree trimming, tree removal, and stump grinidng are essential for maintaining your property's health and safety.
By 7016315488 June 28, 2025
Wearing safe attire and ensuring your firewood has room and space to breathe before use can help you have the best wood-burning and cutting experience.
By 7016315488 June 25, 2025
You may be familiar with different career tracks in the environmental sphere, but did you know there is a specific term for tree care professionals? We’ll explore exactly what an arborist is, when they are needed, and how to join this career track if you are interested! What Is An Arborist? An arborist is a professional who is an expert in caring for trees, shrubbery, and other types of woody plants. Arborists are familiar with all things trees – they are able to assess the health of a tree and come up with the perfect solution for your landscaping needs. Arborists are well-educated in the science and process of tree care, providing recommendations and hands-on management for fertilization concerns, pruning needs, tree removal, or tree health diagnoses. When Is An Arborist Needed? An arborist is required whenever you’re looking to inspect or enhance the health of trees. Arborists are heavily involved in all aspects of tree care, from removing hazardous trees to trimming and updating the physical appearance of trees so they fit the aesthetic of your property. You should call an arborist as soon as you notice any signs of tree decay, as an infected tree can pose harm to you and your property. It is also best to call an arborist if you’re looking for simple services like stump grinding, as they understand the most eco-friendly way to rid your property of unsightly tree-related materials. How Do You Become An Arborist? To become an arborist, you should have a good degree of interest in the environment and outdoors! Having this passion allows you to get fully invested in the world of tree care. Next, depending on which state you’re working in, you may be required to obtain an arborist license. After receiving your license, you can begin applying for jobs or internships to gain real-world experience. It’s always great to have a career mentor, so take the time to research a few tree care companies in your area that you admire and connect with the team to see if you’d be able to shadow them for a period of time. You can become a certified arborist by obtaining an ISA Certified Arborist credential. To do so, you can take online treekeeper classes from the ISA. However, to gain this certificate, you must also have three years' worth of field experience working in tree maintenance. How Do I Choose The Best Arborist? When looking for the best arborist for your needs, one of your best options is to reach out to a highly recommended, local tree care provider with plenty of accessible online reviews. Another thing to look for is certifications. After narrowing down your options, check to see if your arborist shares their company’s certifications on their website. Those who aren’t so willing to disclose may not have the professional background you need to get the best tree care results possible. You should also look for a quality arborist who charges reasonable prices. Request service estimates and compare. Don’t always choose the arborist with the lowest price – if the rate seems far too low, it’s for a reason! Opt for a rate that aligns with the arborist’s clear experience. Elliott Tree’s team of incredible arborists has everything you’re looking for in a tree care company. Our tree services cover emergency removals, stump grinding, tree pruning, and even firewood sales! We take the time to fully inspect the health of your tree, finding the right solution for your needs that fits within your timeline and budget. For service estimates, reach out to us today!
By 7016315488 May 13, 2025
Healthy trees require inspection, mulch, and fertilization to grow. Elliott Tree is here to assist you with tree pruning and other tree services.
man cutting tree
By 7016315488 April 17, 2025
Protect yourself and your property by working with companies like Elliot Tree, which is a properly licensed and insured tree removal business. Contact us for a quick and easy service quote!
By 7016315488 April 9, 2025
Trees can start to die for a variety of reasons, but some of them can be saved just in time. Trees do not grow tall overnight so if you have a chance to save a tree on your property, it is probably best to do what you can to save it. The more proactive you are trying to save a tree, the better your chances are of being sucessful. This blog will provide tips on how you might be able to save a dying tree. 1. Determine What Is Ailing the Tree The first step to saving a tree that is dying is to figure out why it is deteriorating. Take a close look at the tree and look for fungi growth and other signs of tree diseases.Noticing dead tree branches can also help you pinpoint a problem with a tree. 2. Consult with Tree Professionals If you cannot tell what is wrong with the tree after looking at it, do not hesitate to contact your local tree arborists. An arborist can share their expertise and provide suggestions on how to save it. 3. Prune Your Tree Pruning your tree can provide the tree care necessary to save the tree. When a tree is pruned, branches that are damaged, diseased or dead will be removed. This will then allow your tree to continue to develop in a healthy way. 4. Give Your Tree Some Water Your tree may be dying because it has not received enough water. Humans need a certain amount of water to function properly, and so do trees. If your community has experienced a rain drought, take initiative to water your trees. 5. Add Mulch Around The Root of The Tree Mulch is a material that can boost a trees health and help it retain the moisture it needs. Conclusion Not every tree can be saved, but applying the steps above to a dying tree might do the trick. Tree Services in Whitman, MA Elliott Tree is a tree service company located in Whitman, MA. Our team can provide various tree services to the Whitman community and surrounding towns. No tree job is too big or too small for us because of our cranes! Contact us to get started on your tree service!
By 7016315488 March 26, 2025
Tree climbing can present many benefits and be a rewarding experience. Continue reading below to learn about some of the benefits someone can experience by being a tree climber. 1. Tree Climbing can be a Profession You may have climbed a tree for fun, but did you know that there are people who climb trees for a living? If you enjoy climbing trees and are good at it, you can pursue a career as a tree climber. Tree climbers often work with tree arborist crews. If you are an experienced tree climber, there is likely a tree service company in your area that could use your help or expertise. Experienced tree climbers can also conduct lessons and programs teaching others how to tree climb and make money that way. 2. Tree Climbing Can Help You Meet a Wide Range of People People of all ages can be interested in tree climbing and if you attend a tree climbing school, you will likely see this in person. Attending a tree climbing school can help you meet a handful of people passionate about the same thing you are. Tree climbing also typically involves teammwork so tree climbing can help you develop a bond with others. 3. Tree Climbing Can Be Adventurous If you love adventures and being adventurous, tree climbing checks the box. Tree climbing is a unique experience that creates fun and unique memories. For example, climbing the tallest trees in the world may seem like a pipe dream for many, but experienced tree climbers can make it a reality. 4. Tree Climbing Can Make You A Stronger Person Climbing a tree will require a fair amount of physical and mental strength, so completing arduous tree climbs can make you an overall stronger person. 5. Tree Climbing Can Help You Appreciate Nature If you like being outdoors and the environment, tree climbing can give you a newfound appreciation for nature. Climbing a tall tree can also give you a view unlike any other. Tree Services in Whitman, MA Elliot Tree is a tree service company located in Whitman, MA. Our team of tree experts can offer a variety of tree services to homeowners and business owners in Massachusetts. We are also looking to add an experienced tree climber to our team so if you have experience in tree climbing and would like to pursue a tree climbing career, contact us !
By 7016315488 March 18, 2025
Mulch refers to the brown colored wood chips commonly found in yards and gardens. While mulch intially serves as a protective layer, it can offer much more. Mulch can also be added around trees. Keep in mind that when applying mulch to trees, you do not want to over do it. Applying too much mulch to the point where the mulch starts going up the tree trunk can be detrimental. Instead, make sure to spread out the mulch when applying it. Continue reading below to learn more about why adding mulch to trees can be beneficial. 1. Mulch Can Help Trees Retain Soil Moisture When mulch is not applied to a new tree, the moisture can evaporate quickly. New trees need to retain as much moisture as possible so they can grow healthfully. When mulch is applied to a new tree, it makes it difficult for the moisture to evaporate and thus retaining enough soil moisture for the tree to grow. 2. Mulch Can Help a Tree Grow Faster Building off the previous point, mulch can help a tree grow faster. Mulch can help give the soil and trees the nutrients it needs to grow. When your tree receives the proper nutrients, it will start growing before you know it! 3. Mulch Gives Tree Root a Consistent Temperture Inconsistent tempertures can stunt your trees growth and development. When Mulch is applied to a trees surface, it can create a consistent and more controlled temperture. Since the temperture can often be unpredicable, applying mulch can help your tree achieve the ideal temperture it needs to thrive. 4. Mulching Looks Neat A new tree without mulch can look awkward. Applying mulch to a new tree can offer nice aesthetic value and keep the tree looking well-maintained. 5. Mulch is Cost-Effective Another benefit of adding mulch around your trees is the fact it is cost-effective. Many home improvement stores sell large bags of mulch for less than ten dollars. The small price you pay for the impact of mulch is well worth it. Mulch Services in Whitman, MA Elliot Tree now offers mulch services. Trees cannot talk, but if they could, they would say thank you for mulch applied near their roots. Applying mulch incorrectly to your trees can wind up killing your trees. If you have any questions regarding applying mulch to your trees or need help doing so, the team at Elliot Tree is always more than happy to help out! To learn more about our mulch services, contact us !