Why You Should Always Get Rid of Weeds at the Base of Any Trees
If you have trees in your expansive backyard, you know they bring a certain amount of presence or even majesty to the environment. They may protect you from the prevailing wind or shade your house from that hot Australian sun so that you can save some money on your energy bills. These are just some of the benefits of mature trees, and you need to do your best to look after them. But in addition to inspecting the trunk, branches and leaves from time to time, you also need to pay close attention to the base. What do you need to look for?
Competing for Nutrients
Trees get most of their nutrients through their root system, which can extend quite a long way away from the base. Still, they will also rely on water and nutrients around the base, at the point where the trunk disappears underground.
You should keep this area as clear as possible and get rid of any weeds that may tend to grow there. After all, they will compete with the tree for water, nutrient and light, and this is certainly not a good idea with any young trees, which may not have been able to establish themselves as yet.
Crafting a Plan
If you have quite an extensive growth of weeds at the moment, you will need to remove them carefully before putting measures in place to ensure they do not return. Yet, at the same time, you need to be careful to ensure that you do not damage the trees in any way.
Selective Weedkillers
As you may know, weeds can be difficult to kill off, and you may be able to find certain chemical weedkillers to do the job. However, be careful with application and remember that these chemicals will tend to kill everything they come into contact with. Use sparingly and only in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Blocking Fabric
Once you have managed to get rid of any live weeds, remove the remains and excavate a small area around the circumference. Then, you should put some fabric down and secure it with small pegs. This will create a membrane that will allow water to pass through to the tree's roots, preventing weeds from growing back up.
Protective Mulch
Once you have finished this work, you should add some landscaping bark or mulch on top. This will certainly suppress any weeds should they be able to get past the fabric, and it will also help keep water within the soil and reduce evaporation.
Professional Help
Many people in your situation will hand over this work to experienced weed control services. They'll know how to do the work as quickly and efficiently as possible and will also handle those chemicals with care.
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