London headlines

When there is a hanging branch or crack in a tree, it’s easy to see that a problem exists. Other issues may be more difficult to detect. Simple solutions can make a big difference. Pruning can lessen branch weight and wind resistance. Cables and brace rods can also be effective in helping to limit branch movement and protect trees.

Fertilisation is the single most important proactive measure you can take in caring for your trees this season. Soil care and fertilisation in autumn dramatically improve growing conditions and provide the nutrients required for vital tree root development.

Trees under stress display key symptoms indicating a serious problem may exist. This includes wilting or loss of leaves/needles, yellowing of leaves or browning of needles, premature autumn colour, early leaf drop and sappy spots on branches. Correctly identifying the underlying cause is critical to addressing tree health issues.

Summer is a time of high activity for pests as well as tree diseases caused by fungi and other organisms. Some problems may be simply aesthetic, while others can be a real threat to tree health and vitality. As such, it is important to have an arborist check your trees to determine the underlying cause.

With the warmer temperatures of summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 7-10cm layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling autumn fertilisation can also help maintain tree health and vigor.

Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) continues to be a serious threat throughout the southeast of England. As some sporadic outbreaks occur across other areas of the UK and Ireland, it is becoming an even more widespread concern. If you have oaks on your property, they should be inspected immediately for signs of this pest.

Now is the time to address tree health issues that are commonplace this time of year. Problems including browning on evergreen needles, damage to twigs and branches, cracks or splits in the bark and root issues should be identified in early spring, before serious damage occurs.

Box tree caterpillars cause severe defoliation of box when they eat the leaves and produce a webbing over their feeding area. When these caterpillars are present, early detection is important to effectively treat and prevent a serious outbreak.

After winter ends, your trees and shrubs will be working hard to establish spring growth. A soil test in early spring can help determine the precise nutrients needed for that growth, yielding a fuller canopy and vibrant, health foliage.

Winter is the ideal time to prune many tree species. Removal of dead or diseased branches this time of year can greatly reduce the risk they pose to your home and property. Plus, pruning can improve the overall health and appearance of your trees, getting them in shape for spring.

Colder temperatures and shorter days serve as a reminder that it’s time for your trees and shrubs to have a winter check-up. Now is the time to uncover issues such as weakly attached branches, dead wood, diseases, pest infestations and other problems before they can cause serious damage in the spring.