We get calls all the time, where trees are dying after new construction. People want us to save them, but 95% of the time, the trees' health was damaged BEFORE the house was built. Most trees die within four years of construction, for the below reasons. And it can all be avoided! Read below.

To ensure your trees remain healthy and vibrant during construction, it's crucial to understand the potential risks and take proactive measures. In this blog post, our tree service experts will explain how new construction can damage trees and offer valuable tips to protect them.

Understanding the Threats to Your Trees:

• Soil Compaction: Heavy machinery, construction materials, and vehicles can lead to soil compaction around the tree's root zone. Compacted soil reduces oxygen and water penetration, depriving the tree of essential nutrients.
• Root Damage: Construction activities can cause physical damage to a tree's roots, disrupting their ability to absorb water and nutrients. This damage can be irreversible and lead to long-term tree decline. All it takes sometimes is one bulldozer driven over the roots, and its a death sentence!
• Grade Changes: Altering the grade or elevating the ground level around a tree can expose its roots, making them vulnerable to injury, soil erosion, and even fungal diseases.
• Excavation and Trenching: Digging trenches or excavating near trees can sever their roots, affecting stability and overall health.

Tips for Protecting Your Trees:

• Establish a Protected Zone: Designate a protected zone around the base of the tree where no construction activities should take place. This zone should extend beyond the tree's canopy to safeguard its root system.
• Install Fencing: Install sturdy fencing or barriers around the protected zone to prevent heavy equipment, vehicles, and construction materials from encroaching on the tree's space.
• Mulch and Maintain Moisture: Apply mulch around the base of the tree to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Regularly water the tree during dry periods to ensure it receives adequate hydration.
• Prune as Needed: Pruning can help reduce stress on the tree by removing damaged or dead branches. Call Brown's if you need assistance with this.
• Monitor for Signs of Stress: Keep a close eye on your trees throughout the construction process. Look for signs of stress, such as wilting leaves, yellowing foliage, or unusual fungal growth. Report any issues to your arborist promptly.
• Adjust Construction Plans: If possible, adjust construction plans to minimize the impact on trees. This might involve rerouting driveways, repositioning buildings, or modifying grading plans.
• Post-Construction Care: After construction is complete, continue to monitor and care for your trees. Implement a regular maintenance schedule, including pruning, mulching, and fertilizing as needed.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trees not only survive but thrive during new construction projects. Remember, healthy trees not only add beauty and value to your property but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable environment for everyone to enjoy.

Feel free to call Brown's Tree Care at 479-273-0202 if you have any further questions.