Landscaping trees are an integral part of our personal properties. Wisely chosen and appropriately placed, they provide both function and beauty. In this era of tough economic times, many are reverting to the ways of previous generations and growing their own food, including the fruit grown on trees. Like other non-bearing landscaping trees, fruit trees, too, are both functional and beautiful. The fruit yielded is nourishing and the blooms, colorful and aromatic. Because many rely on the output of fruit trees to help stock their pantries, add to favorite family recipes, and help cut down on overall grocery expense, it is important to know several of the common complications that may be experienced when growing fruit trees in order to reap the “fruits” of one’s labor.
Perhaps one of the most anticipated complications experienced when growing fruit trees are pests. After all, man is not the only one who greatly values the sweet goodness of tree fruit! Pests may include mites, moths, and larger animals, such as birds and squirrels. Some research indicates that chances of destruction of fruit crops may be lessened by encouraging natural predators of the pests in the area. In other words, carefully researching which pests are likely to affect your fruit trees can also help you determine which of their predators could keep their presence limited or non-existent.
Consider water absorption as a possible common complication as well. If soil does not drain well, then it is quite likely the tree is negatively impacted. Standing water is essentially a sign that the roots are unable to obtain the appropriate nutrients, including oxygen, from the soil. Lack of oxygen is an unmistakable way for the fruit tree to perish. Conversely, if soil is too dry, this may be an indicator of poor soil on a smaller-scale or regional drought conditions on a larger scale. Either way, the problem remains the same: If water is unable to penetrate the soil, the fruit tree is likely to perish.
All trees are susceptible to disease, including fruit trees. If left untreated, the fruit tree, like any other tree, may succumb to partial or total death. With a fruit tree, this in turn results in less, or no, fruit yielded. With proper care, however, a diseased tree may still beat the odds. Contact an Austin tree trimming professional for assistance. He/she will be able to address a tree’s chances of survival if a diseased section is properly removed or will be able to determine if the tree will result in a total loss. An Austin tree removal professional can assist if the tree needs to be removed.
Another quite common problem to anticipate when growing fruit trees is frost. Many times, fruit crops are damaged or lost altogether when blooms are affected by a late frost. The harsh temperatures associated with frost are rough on the early, tender blooms of fruit trees. There are a few precautions that can be taken to shield a fruit tree’s early blooms from a potentially devastating late frost. Cover the trees with burlap or sackcloth to help insulate them by holding in warmth. Use materials, bought or any scrap ones that are already on hand, to build a makeshift housing unit to help keep frost off the blooms, as well as to shield the tree from any cold winds.
Other creative options exist. Contact an Austin tree care specialist to learn and understand the many methods that can be employed to shield fruit trees from common complications.
About the Author: Andrew Johnson is the owner of Central Texas Tree Care, a leading provider of Austin tree service in Central Texas. Certified ISA Austin arborist services including: tree trimming, tree removal, tree care and oak wilt treatment. For more information on Austin tree service, please visit https://centraltexastr.wpengine.com.
