How Trees Become Hazardous: Number 7 – Automobiles
Cars can do a lot of damage to trees, either by wounding the trunk by running into them (picture at left), or by compacting the soil by being parked on top of the tree’s root system. People like to park underneath trees on hot summer days because it keeps their car cooler. It doesn’t usually do much for the tree though. Tree roots need good soil, oxygen, and water to survive and grow. Do your tree a favor; keep the cars away from it!

How Trees Become Hazardous: Number 6 - Improper Planting
Trees in the home landscape often get planted incorrectly. Improperly planting a tree gets it started in life on the wrong root. If a tree is planted too deep or too shallow, in poor soil conditions, or without a big enough planting hole, it will never grow into a normal, healthy tree. This picture (right) shows the twine string holding the burlap around the root ball was never removed when the tree was planted.  Ultimately, this strangled the tree and killed it. Proper planting techniques are important to give trees a good start in the landscape.

How Trees Become Hazardous: Number 5 - Lack of Aftercare
Some people think they can just plant a tree and walk away and let the tree grow by itself. Neglect of newly planted trees will cause them to struggle and not grow properly. Mulch, watering, and protection from lawnmowers are important in order for a new tree to survive and thrive.  Not every tree needs to be staked, but the ones like the tree in this picture (left) sure do!

How Trees Become Hazardous: Number 4 - Too Little or Too Much Water
Most people associate young dead trees with too little water, but too much water is equally damaging. With excess water roots will suffocate; without water most roots dry out and die. Trees in lawn areas often get too much water because trees and grass have different watering requirements.