BLOG Discover the Best Tree Care Practices During Construction and Landscaping Projects Feb 03, 2025

When embarking on construction or landscaping projects, protecting the existing trees on your property is crucial. At El Perico Tree Service and Lawn Care, LLC, we understand the vital role that trees play in maintaining ecological balance, enhancing property aesthetics, and providing natural habitat. However, these majestic giants are often overlooked during construction, leading to significant damage or even tree loss. Here are some expert tips and best practices to ensure your trees remain healthy throughout your construction or landscaping endeavors.

Understanding Tree Injury During Construction

Construction projects can pose several threats to trees, including root damage, soil compaction, and trunk wounds. It's important to recognize that tree roots can extend up to three times the width of the canopy, making them vulnerable to heavy machinery and foot traffic. Soil compaction, from machinery and materials, suffocates roots, impairing the tree's ability to absorb water and nutrients. Additionally, trunks are at risk of physical damage, which can lead to infections.

Pre-Construction Planning

The best way to protect your trees is through meticulous planning. Start by consulting with a professional tree service, such as El Perico Tree Service and Lawn Care, LLC. Our certified arborists can conduct a thorough site assessment, identifying which trees are most vulnerable and establishing protective measures.

During planning, integrate tree care into your construction timeline. Designate areas where no construction activities should occur – known as tree protection zones. Clearly mark these with fences and signage to prevent accidental damage. These zones should ideally extend to the drip line of the tree, protecting roots from compaction and disturbance.

Ensure your construction plans account for existing trees. Consider rerouting driveways, walkways, or other structures away from root zones to minimize impact.

Implementing Tree Protection Solutions

Implementing strong tree protection solutions is critical to minimizing damage. Utilize physical barriers like high-visibility fencing to mark tree protection zones. This not only deters equipment from venturing too close but also serves as a constant reminder to workers.

Regularly inspect the protection zones throughout the construction process. Ensure that machinery and workers respect the barriers and that no construction materials are being stored within these zones. Consistent monitoring helps catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

Watering and Maintenance During Construction

Trees under construction-related stress require extra care to maintain their health. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, can help alleviate some stress by ensuring that the trees have sufficient moisture. Since construction may disrupt normal water flow, adjusting irrigation practices is often necessary.

Post-construction, consider mulching around the base of the trees. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retains moisture, and reduces soil compaction. It's an easy yet effective way to give the trees a better chance of thriving after the construction dust settles.

Regular Tree Health Assessments

After construction, it’s crucial to monitor the health of your trees regularly. Trees may not show immediate signs of stress; symptoms can surface even years after the construction has concluded. Schedule regular inspections with a professional tree service. Our experts at El Perico Tree Service are skilled at diagnosing and solving post-construction tree health issues.

In conclusion, protecting trees during construction projects demands thoughtful planning and proactive care. By implementing these best practices, you can ensure that your trees survive and thrive, adding beauty and environmental benefits to your property for years to come. For expert guidance and services, trust the seasoned professionals at El Perico Tree Service and Lawn Care, LLC. Let us help you safeguard your living investments today.