Thinking about trees after the recent Northern Michigan ice storm
This spring, we here in Northern Michigan have spent a lot of time thinking about trees–and for good reason. On March 28, a severe winter storm moved in and settled across the region, draping whole counties in a thick layer of ice that broke branches, took down thousands of power lines, and snapped whole trees, fundamentally changing the landscapes around us.
The damage is widespread and unlike anything we’ve ever seen here. Cleanup efforts have been going on for a month and will continue well into the future, and only time will tell how our forests and wooded areas will recover.
On a related topic, April 22 was Arbor Day, a day typically associated with planting trees. And our team hasn’t just been removing trees damaged by the storm–they’ve also been planting new trees on client sites as the season kicks off. So between the devastation of the trees around us to tree-planting days, we’ve been thinking about trees a lot.
So in this post, we’ll be talking about trees. Specifically, we’ll be going over some of the landscaping benefits trees have, as well as continuing tree care practices that can help trees grow stronger and healthier.
Benefits of trees
You’re likely already familiar with the health and environmental benefits associated with trees, from air purification to heat reduction and so much more. These benefits alone are reason enough to plant trees, but trees also have specific landscape design benefits.
- Adding structure – Trees act as a kind of “backbone” in a landscape design, creating visual stability and structure amidst lower-growing shrubs and flowers.
- Creating different feelings – When you’re standing in a yard or on a patio in full sun, it’s a very different feeling than what you experience in a shaded spot. Physically, shaded areas have the benefit of cooler temperatures, a welcome retreat in the middle of a hot summer day. Emotionally, a shaded spot can feel more calming, quiet, and secluded than one in full sun, making them perfect places to pause and rest.
- Bringing unique character – Ornamental trees with different shapes and sizes can make a space feel more personal and intentional in its design. They’re an excellent way to make your space uniquely yours.
- Year-round shape and interest – Catastrophic ice storms aside, trees are a great way to create structure within your landscape that lasts all year long.
Caring for trees
Planting a tree is just the beginning of the story. To ensure it stays healthy and strong for as long as possible, ongoing care is necessary.
- Proper watering – Like any plants, trees need the appropriate amount of water to thrive. Knowing the needs of your tree–and the soil conditions in your yard–are important parts of this process, and a smart irrigation system can be a beneficial tool.
- Fertilization – And, like any plants, trees need specific nutrients to grow strong and stay healthy. Our team performs root zone injections to give trees the nutrients they need, as well as protecting them from pests and diseases.
- Pruning – As a tree grows, it might need to be pruned to maintain a specific shape or to promote stronger growth. Removing dead or damaged branches reduces the risk of them falling during storm events, and opening the canopy can help improve airflow, increase light penetration, and reduce disease risk. A certified arborist has the training and experience necessary to prune a tree for optimal growing conditions, helping it stand strong.
- Removing trees – Unfortunately, part of caring for a tree is knowing when it’s time to remove it–before it falls and causes problems.
Ready, set, plant
In Northern Michigan, spring is a great time to plant trees, as mild temperatures and increased rainfall both help trees acclimate to their new homes. Whether you’re planting a seedling or bringing in something bigger, a tree is a great addition to your landscape, and this year, planting and caring for trees feels even more important than ever.
