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 As
trees mature, a policy of regular inspection is advised for
early detection of decay, pest or disease and to monitor the four
indicators of tree health
- leave and bud growth
- leaf size
- twig growth
- signs of crown dieback (the gradual death of the upper
part of the tree)
Mature trees respond well to responsible mulching,
but require a wider mulch blanket, extending to the borders of
their root systems.
- Ideally, the mulching area for a mature tree
is two to three times the diameter of its branch spread.
- In
central Florida, where wide radial tree shapes (spreading
horizontally as opposed to vertically) are common, this may not
be possible (imagine two to three times the spread of a mature
live oak).
- In this case, a mulch blanket extending to the drip
line is recommended.
Urban trees submit to conditions that challenge their
nutritional balance, such as traffic congestion, higher
temperatures, soil compaction, pollution and ozone. Before using
any supplemental fertilizer, it is important to know what
nutrients are needed and surrounding soil characteristics (such
as Ph and organic matter content). Also make certain that when
you use fertilizers and pesticides for other purposes, you may
inadvertently be applying them to the wide-reaching root system
of nearby mature trees.
Tree removal is a final resort, for trees that are
dead, dying or irreparably dangerous, when a tree may present an
obstruction or other risk.
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