Nashville Tree Foundation works to preserve and enhance Nashville's urban forest by educating the public, planting trees in urban areas, identifying the oldest and largest trees in Davidson County, and designating arboretums.
Watering
- Trees need water year-round, including in the winter and especially during drought. If your area hasn’t received at least an inch of rainfall, your tree needs water.
- Water in the morning rather than evening. Damp foliage overnight invites fungus.
- Water thoroughly once a week. More frequently may result in shallow, weak roots.
- Water slowly to avoid run-off. Use a soaker hose or water ring, or let water trickle slowly from a hose for an extended period.
- Don’t spray water directly on the trunk.
Mulching
Using mulch is one of the best things you can do for your tree. Pine needles, grass clippings, shredded bark, or wood chips placed over the soil helps to retain moisture, minimize weeds, and improve soil conditions. Spread a layer three to four inches deep. and leave a ring of open space around the trunk so that mulch doesn’t touch it.
Pruning
Prune your tree sparingly, and never “top” it. Topping creates weak, poorly attached sprouts that grow quickly and break off easily. Topping also leaves ugly stubs that are vulnerable to insects and disease. Instead, use the “branch collar” pruning method. Cut the limb close to the main trunk but leave a small “collar” of the branch sticking up. This will allow the tree to heal more quickly. Properly sharpened tools also help the tree heal quicker.
Don’t prune every year. Thin top branches every three to five years, and remove dead or damaged limbs whenever you see them. Do major trimming after the coldest part of winter is past, except for trees that flower in the spring: these do best when pruned after their blooms drop.