At Westwood Gardens, we believe healthy trees are the foundation of beautiful, sustainable landscapes. This guide covers long-term care for three main categories:

• Deciduous Trees — Broadleaf trees that lose leaves seasonally (e.g., maples, oaks, birches).
• Coniferous Trees — Evergreen needle- or scale-leaved trees (e.g., pines, firs, spruces).
• Fruit Trees — Mostly deciduous producers like apples, pears, cherries, and peaches.

Advice is based on recommendations from university extensions, the Arbor Day Foundation, and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

General Care Principles for All Trees

• Site Selection — Choose species suited to your soil, climate, and space. Full sun for most; consider mature size. Part sun/shade should be selected for certain trees like Japanese Maple. 
• Planting Time — Spring or fall for deciduous/fruit; planting in summer is also fine as long as you are home to water frequently!
• Establishment Period — First 2–3 years are critical—focus on rooting with consistent care.

Planting Your Tree

1. Dig a wide, shallow hole (2–3x root ball width, same depth).
2. Keep root flare (where roots meet trunk) at or slightly above soil level.
3. Backfill with native soil (with amendments/fertilizer if desired); water deeply.
4. Mulch 3–4 inches deep, keeping it away from the trunk.

Watering Guidelines

Deep, infrequent watering promotes strong roots (References: Arbor Day Foundation & University Extensions).

• New Trees — 15–20 gallons weekly for first 2–3 years.
• Established Trees — Supplemental during dry periods; conifers often more drought-tolerant.
• Method — Slow soak to 12–18 inches deep; avoid frequent shallow watering.

Soil, Mulching, and Fertilizing

• Mulching — 3-inch organic layer retains moisture, moderates temperature, suppresses weeds (keep 3 inches from trunk).
• Soil Testing — Test every 3–5 years; most established trees need little fertilizer if mulched properly.
• Fertilizing — Apply slow-release based on test results, usually early spring; avoid late feeding in the fall.

Pruning Techniques by Tree Type

Deciduous & Fruit Trees

Prune in late winter/early spring (dormant season) for structure, health, and fruit production (University of Minnesota Extension).

Coniferous Trees

Light pruning only—remove dead/damaged branches anytime; shape new growth in spring. Avoid heavy cuts (most lack latent buds).

Pest and Disease Management

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Monitor, identify, and use cultural/mechanical controls first (Penn State & OSU Extensions).

• Common Issues — Aphids, scale, borers (all types); fire blight (fruit); needle cast (conifers).
• Prevention — Proper pruning/airflow, sanitation (remove debris), resistant varieties.
• Controls — Horticultural oils, beneficial insects; targeted sprays only when needed.

Long-Term Protection and Maintenance

• Winter Protection — Wrap young trunks against sunscald/rodents; mulch roots.
• Monitoring — Annual inspections for structural issues (hire certified arborist for large trees).
• Lifespan Boost — Proper care can double tree longevity.