Tree health care professionals of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania talk about five trees that are considered high maintenance.
These Five Trees May Look Nice, But Think Before You Plant
People often choose trees for their landscaping simply based on appearance. While there is nothing wrong with this, some trees take more work than others to keep healthy and thriving. It is good to know what you are investing in, because trees are an investment toward the beauty and curb appeal of your home, not to mention an investment in the environment and the urban forest.
Let’s look at why some trees are considered “high maintenance,” what trees deserve a second look before you buy, and how arborists can help you maintain your trees.
What Causes Trees to be Considered “High Maintenance?”
So when you are discussing trees, what does it mean to be “high maintenance?”
This depends on several factors which are included in the list below:
- Strength of branches
- Susceptibility to tree disease
- Weakness to certain tree pests
- Sensitivity to changes in the soil composition and pH
- Sensitivity to extreme temperature changes
- Needs heavy pruning or trimming
Most trees do need some sort of care, but several do need extra attention in order to survive and grow, no matter where they are. Pittsburgh is known for both cold winters and warm summers which can make the trees in the next section need a little extra help.
5 Pretty, but Needy Ornamental Trees
- Bradford Pear: This tree (Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’) is very fast growing and has a pleasing teardrop silhouette. It is covered in hundreds of tiny white blooms early in the spring and its fall foliage is a spectacular range of reds and purples. Though it is highly desired and fast growing, its branches are weak and these trees tend to take severe storm damage. Certain diseases also tend to attack Bradford pears.
- Norway Maple: This maple (Acer platanoides) is prized for its dense shade and fall foliage. It is a tree that attracts certain unwanted pests. Aphids often find this tree quite appealing. They are also susceptible to diseases common to maples: stem cankers and verticillium wilt.
- Silver Maple: Acer saccharinum is a fast growing maple, but the fast growth can lead to weak branch systems. It is also a tree that is often attacked by pests and disease. It also has a shallow root system that can be hard on driveways and sidewalks.
- Willow: The willow, or Salix spp., is another attractive and fast growing tree. It also has a highly invasive root system that can cause serious issues with plumbing infrastructure.
- London Plane Tree: Also called Platanus x acerifolia, the London plane tree is often planted because of their soil adaptability, but it is susceptible to anthracnose and they need regular pruning.
What Arborists Can Do To Help
Whether or not you have trees in your yard that need constant attention, a certified arborist with the help of a team of tree service professionals can help make your yard the best it can be. Even if a homeowner prefers a “high maintenance” tree, the tree service company can assist with tree pruning, tree trimming, mulching, fertilizer and much more. They care about your tree health and want to see the tree thrive before any tree removal steps are taken.
About Greater Pitt Tree Service
Known as an award-winning tree service company and accredited by the BBB, Greater Pitt Tree Service serves Pittsburgh, PA and the surrounding community. Call today for free estimates and 24/7 emergency tree service.