Caring for Your Trees

Trees are recognized as one of Charlotte’s greatest natural resources. They clean our air and water while providing shade and beauty. Pruning is one of the many ways to protect our tree canopy. 

 

Transcript: For the Love of Trees, DON'T DO IT!

For the love of trees, DON'T DO IT! That's the message from Landscape Management about "tree topping." 

Topping is the indiscriminate cutting back of tree branches that is also referred to as "heading," "tipping," "hat-racking" and "rounding over."

While the idea still persists that topping trees is necessary, certified arborists say it's a harmful practice that can lead to branch failure and affect the health of the tree.

If you want to learn about alternatives to tree topping, such as branch reduction or directional pruning, call a certified arborist.

However, if you think a tree in the city's right-of-way needs maintenance, please call Landscape Management at 704.336.4262.

Pruning

When pruning a tree, you should always consider the natural structure of a tree. For most trees and shrubs, pruning should be done during the winter when it is easier to see the correct branches to cut. It is a good idea to consult an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)-certified arborist who is familiar with the Charlotte Tree Ordinance before cutting trees. 

 

Watering

It's a good idea to water newly planted trees once a week during normal weather conditions, and twice a week during dry spells. Provide 5 to 10 gallons, applied slowly over the mulched area of your tree so it can soak into the ground where the roots are.

New tree planting

Choosing a Tree

Trees have many benefits, but not all are right for all planting sites or climates. Tree selection and placement are two of the most important decisions a homeowner makes when choosing a tree. 

Mulching

Mulching can provide many benefits, but improper mulching can actually harm the tree.

Pests

There are steps you can take to identify which pest(s) are harming your trees. Identifying insects and pests. If you need professional assistance with a tree on your property, consult an arborist who specializes in the care of individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care.

Find an arborist
Learn more about insects and diseases that affect trees

Don't Top Your Trees!

An improperly pruned Crepe Myrtle (top) will be weaker, less attractive and have a shorter lifespan. A properly pruned Crepe Myrtle (bottom) will remain healthy and natural looking for years to come. When in doubt, contact a certified arborist, or call us at 704.336.4262 if it's a tree in a city right of way.

A line of crepe myrtles that have been topped

 

A crepe myrtle in full bloom surrounded by green grass

 

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