You don’t need to be an arborist to help your trees stay healthy and strong. With a few simple habits, you can prevent many of the common problems we see around Ottawa and Eastern Ontario — from pest damage to storm breakage. Here are some easy, practical steps you can do at home to keep your trees in top shape all year long.
1. Water Deeply, Not Often
Most trees prefer deep, occasional watering over frequent light watering. Shallow watering keeps roots near the surface, which makes trees more vulnerable to heat and drought.
How to water properly:
- Water slowly at the base of the tree until the soil is moist about 20–30 cm deep
- Do this once a week during dry periods, or every two weeks for established trees
- Use a soaker hose or let a garden hose trickle for 30–45 minutes
Avoid watering directly against the trunk — that can cause rot.
2. Mulch the Right Way
Mulch helps soil retain moisture, prevents weeds, and protects roots from extreme temperatures. But too much mulch — or piling it against the trunk — can actually suffocate the tree.
Good mulching practice:
- Spread 5–8 cm of organic mulch (like woodchips or shredded bark) around the base
- Keep mulch 10–15 cm away from the trunk (“donut shape,” not “volcano”)
- Refresh the layer once a year
Mulching also gives your landscape a clean, finished look.
3. Inspect Your Trees Every Season
Trees change with the seasons — and so do the signs of trouble.
A short inspection a few times per year can catch problems before they grow.
What to look for:
- Dead or cracked branches
- Sawdust or holes in bark (signs of insects)
- Mushrooms or oozing sap near the base
- Leaning trunks or lifting roots
- Sparse or discolored leaves
If you spot these warning signs, contact a certified arborist for an assessment.
4. Prune Small Branches Safely
Minor pruning — like removing small dead twigs — can be done at home. It helps the tree heal faster and reduces storm damage risk.
Safe DIY pruning tips:
- Use sharp, clean pruning shears
- Cut just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where branch meets trunk)
- Never remove more than 15–20% of a tree’s canopy at once
- Avoid pruning during heavy sap flow (early spring for most species)
For large branches, trees near power lines, or anything requiring climbing — always call a professional.
5. Protect Roots and Soil
Roots need oxygen and space to grow. Parking vehicles, piling soil, or walking heavily near trees compresses the soil and limits root development.
How to protect root zones:
- Keep heavy equipment and foot traffic away from the base
- Avoid piling construction materials or soil over roots
- Use mulch or gravel paths instead of compacted ground
If your tree was affected by soil compaction, an arborist can help improve soil health using aeration techniques or organic amendments.
6. Support Young Trees
Newly planted trees need extra help in their first 2–3 years.
Proper staking and watering help them develop strong roots and upright growth.
Tips for young trees:
- Stake only if needed, and remove stakes after the first full growing season
- Keep the trunk tie slightly loose to allow natural movement
- Water regularly during hot months
- Check that the base isn’t covered by mulch or grass
7. Prepare for Storm Season
Ottawa’s storms can be tough on trees. Routine maintenance before winter or heavy summer storms helps prevent broken limbs and property damage.
Before the storm season:
- Inspect for weak or overhanging branches
- Remove deadwood from the canopy
- Clear limbs near power lines or roofs
- Call a certified arborist for a structural assessment
Tree Removal and Cabling & Bracing services are sometimes necessary for trees that can’t be made safe through pruning alone.
8. Watch for Local Pests and Diseases
Some pests and fungi are specific to Eastern Ontario. Early detection can save your tree and prevent spreading.
Common local problems:
| Issue | Typical Trees Affected | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|
| Emerald Ash Borer | Ash | D-shaped exit holes, thinning canopy |
| Maple Tar Spot | Maple | Black circular spots on leaves |
| Cytospora Canker | Spruce | Oozing sap and dying lower branches |
| Apple Scab | Crabapple | Black blotches on leaves and fruit |
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait — get a professional inspection and treatment plan.
9. Know When to Call an Expert
Even with great home care, some situations need professional help.
If your tree is large, close to power lines, or showing signs of disease, pruning or removal is best left to certified arborists.
Call a professional if:
- The branch is larger than 5 cm thick
- The tree leans or moves in the soil
- You hear cracking sounds in high winds
- You’re unsure whether a tree is healthy or dying
Keep Your Trees Healthy Year-Round
Healthy trees make your property safer, greener, and more valuable.
By combining small at-home tasks with regular professional maintenance, you can prevent major problems and enjoy your trees for decades to come.
Arboris proudly serves Ottawa East, Casselman, Rockland, and all of Eastern Ontario — offering expert tree care, pruning, and plant health services for every season.