How to stop tree leaves falling. This Blog post is written in response to a common request for tree work that we get from clients. Often the reason a client has contacted us is because they are overwhelmed with the amount of leaf fall on their property. So they call us to provide a solution…
Attention is usually trained on the nearest source of leaves followed by a request to either kill or behead the offending specimen. These are just two options that can be applied to this situation.
This Blog post will discuss the two options and alternatives for anyone who has a mountain of leaves where their garden used to be.
The solution might simple… When leaves are the problem… Remove the tree…
The trouble with this view is that it ignores all of the other qualities that trees provide. So it is a one-sided argument.
We can fully admit that excess leaves can be a real issue. We have seen some gardens that have been completely swamped by tree leaves.
However, in those same gardens the trees were also helping to beautify the landscape. Plus add summer shade, enrich the air, stabilise the soil and create privacy screens.
Removing the tree can, in some cases, be a short-sighted approach.
You end up loosing all of the beneficial qualities to solve just one of the negative qualities.
Severe pruning can be a similar story. It solves the problem in the short term but the canopy quickly reforms. So you are back to square one.
Now you have a tree that is likely to be in much worse health than when you started with a host of other defects.
Another point to consider is if these are the only trees in the vicinity.
You may think that all the leaves come from the nearest tree to your property, but this is not the case. Leaves can travel a great distance in the wind so you may be getting leaves from several properties close by.
So what can be done and to stop tree leaves falling?
If you value your trees and want to keep them there are a number of other solutions. The money that you would spend on pruning or removing trees could be better spent on protecting your property from leaves or on clearing them away.
There is a large range of modern gutter guards available that do a good job of protecting your rain water system. Shade sails or nets can be used over patio areas to intercept leaves. For the price of an average tree removal you would be able to afford a top of the range leaf blower that would clear leaves from lawns and driveways with little effort, you might even be able to pay a gardener or student to do it for you.
Decomposed leaf mulch is also great for the garden as a natural soil improver. These methods are not perfect by any means and they do require effort, however, if you value your trees this is a small price to pay for all the benefits that healthy, well looked after trees provide to your local environment.
Check out all our “How To Provide Tree Maintenance Series” instructional guides. These arborist guides are aimed for tree owners who are keen to get their hands dirty.
- How to provide tree work for trees blocking your view…
- How to trim a hedge the right way for the best results…
- How to care for your trees in the summer heat…
- How to mulch a tree and take care of your trees…
- Best time of year to prune large trees is now…
- How to prune a tree and how you can manage the condition of your trees…
- How to plant a tree guide with plenty of helpful advice…
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Rossy and the Team.
Rossy | 021 508 806 | treecareauckland.co.nz
