5 Tips For Improving Air Circulation And Reducing Fungal Diseases Around Your Trees
Posted on: 26 April 2023
Tree diseases can thrive in a tree if there is high humidity and low air circulation within the crown, as this creates the perfect conditions for fungal growth. Leaf spots and powdery mildews are the most common issues arising from poor air circulation, but more severe diseases are a possibility if steps aren't taken to improve conditions.
1. Thin Out the Crown
Overcrowding leads to dense growth and stagnant air. An overcrowded crown is also more likely to harbor branches that have been damaged from rubbing together. Your tree service will remove any crossed and rubbing branches, along with those that have poor form or other damage. In some cases, heavy pruning and thinning may be required if the crown is particularly dense.
2. Reduce Over Crowding
Trees that are growing too close together will also result in reduced air circulation. Ideally, trees should be spaced far enough apart so that their branches do not touch those of their neighbors. Reduction pruning to reduce the spread of the crown may be necessary if the trees are crowded. Your tree trimmer can reduce a branch by about a third of its length each year, without causing stress to the tree.
3. Improve Irrigation Practices
Trees need water, but it needs to be delivered to their roots. When sprinklers spray into the canopy, all that happens is wet leaves and higher humidity — both conditions that lead to disease if there is poor air circulation. Installing drip irrigation around the base of the tree will prevent wet foliage You can also opt to use a soaker hose if installing drip irrigation isn't an option at this time.
4. Maintain Clean Perimeters
Fungal spores and similar can persist in fallen leaves on the ground, making it simple for the spores to spread once more to the tree. All fallen leaves, no matter the season, need to be raked up and removed promptly if poor air circulation or past fungal problems have been an issue. Thoroughly compost the leaves before using them in other parts of the landscaping, just in case there are spores in the leaves.
5. Trim the Understory
Understory shrubs may also reduce air circulation and harbor fungal spores. It's not uncommon for small shrubs to be planted near trees in landscaping beds. These shrubs should also be kept pruned so that air circulation problems don't affect them or the trees. Taller shrubs may need to be pruned to a lower height so they don't crowd the lower branches of the tree.
Contact a tree service if you are concerned about air circulation and tree diseases.
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