Whether you’re planning an entirely new build or renovating your existing home, you’re probably eager to get your construction project underway. If you care about your landscaping, though, it’s smart to pay attention to tree protection during construction.
Learn how to care for your trees during construction below, then call us to schedule tree services in Jefferson City, TN.
How Construction Can Wreak Havoc on Your Trees
Your trees may be strong and sturdy, but they can’t stand up to heavy construction equipment like bulldozers and cranes. Trees in construction zones face risks like these:
- Broken branches: Damaged branches don’t just look unsightly; they also attract pests and create an entry point for bacteria and fungi to set up shop. Plus, exposed trees are at a higher risk of sunscald.
- Soil compaction: Construction equipment can weigh tens of thousands of pounds, and it’s easy to imagine what that much weight does to your soil. Soil compaction hinders root growth and makes it harder for trees to absorb oxygen and moisture.
- Altered soil levels: Did you know that most tree roots sit close to the surface of the soil? By covering that surface soil up with excess dirt and construction debris, your tree’s roots will become smothered and the tree could die.
Protecting Your Cherished Trees During Construction
Now that you know about the risks, how can you achieve tree protection during construction? Follow these tips:
- Identify the trees you want to protect in the construction area and mark them with colorful tape or flags.
- Make a plan for construction work. Your plan should include a list of trees you want to protect, the order you’ll have the work done, entry and exit points for construction vehicles, and preferred staging sites for construction equipment.
- Create root zone barriers to keep workers away from your trees. An arborist can help you set up temporary tree fencing.
- For soil compaction avoidance and drip line preservation, consider laying sheets of plywood around the tree or adding mulching protection. A layer of mulch protects trees by spreading weight across a bigger area.
- Consider hiring an arborist for canopy pruning before construction begins. Removing unneeded branches reduces the risk of injury to the tree.
- Ask construction workers not to dump chemicals or materials around your trees.
- Water your trees prior to and after construction if there’s no rain in the forecast. Ample moisture helps prevent tree stress.
- Keep an eye on the construction zone throughout the project. It’s helpful to have an arborist inspect your trees before, during, and after construction.
Planning a Construction Project? Call Us for Tree Protection Guidance
Need more tips for tree protection during construction? Want to learn the pros and cons of mulching around trees? Reach out to Pro Tree of Knoxville! We offer a full range of tree care services, including pruning, mulching, tree removal, and lot clearing. Call us at (865) 294-0062 to get a quote for tree service today.