While you’re at home maybe you’d like to do some landscaping projects and help your trees be their best.

Do you know how to keep your grand oaks healthy? Here we give you all of our tips on treating these beautiful Florida oaks with care.

Protecting The Root System

Mature oaks have a large root system and you need to not disturb the root protection zone around the tree.

This area is the area from the trunk to the drip line, plus half that distance away from the trunk.

Native Florida oaks are incredibly adaptable and have become tolerant of our long dry summers and temperate winter months. The initial roots that form extend very deep underground so there is constant access to the water table.

Since their primary focus in developing a deep and sustaining root structure sometimes the root protection zone extends out as much as 90 feet from the base of the tree. Leaving these areas alone is the most vital thing you can do for the health of the oak tree.

Mulching, Should I or Shouldn’t I?

While mulch is certainly nice looking it can be hurtful to your Florida oak trees.

Too much mulch directly against the trunk can hold in too much moisture and cause things like root rot and crown rot which will kill the tree. If you want to mulch there are some ways you can do it while also protecting the health of your tree.

Make sure you get chipped bark mulch, not the more expensive mulches, and place a layer, no more than 4 inches thick, around the tree. Make sure to give clearance around the base of the trunk and don’t touch the mulch to the tree.

Live oaks also need regular trimming to stay healthy. Make sure to clear any trimming debris out of the mulch after it’s done.

Can I Put More Plants Under My Oak?

You need to be sparse with any additional landscaping underneath large oak trees. Anything that requires a lot of water should be avoided so that you don’t end up overwatering the oak while caring for the other plants.

Choose plants that thrive in shady areas and dry soil conditions. Choosing native Florida plant species or plants from the Mediterranean will provide these conditions and are beautiful as well.

You should plant new plants in the later fall months so their roots can get a good establishment over winter. During the first season after planting, water them 2-3 times per month and then transition to a monthly watering schedule as needed depending on the amount of rainfall we have.

During rainy times of the year you may not need to water at all but in the hottest times of the year make sure to keep a close eye on the soil and water as needed.

Making Usable Space Around My Oak

Pouring concrete or paving around an oak tree can be very detrimental to its root structure.

Instead, try an elevated decking approach. Leave about a foot of space under the deck and cut the deck around the existing trees. Use these round areas as opportunities for benches and other seating or decorative elements.

Signs Your Florida Oak Trees Might Be In Distress

• Dropping of all leaves
• Yellow, small, or mottled appearing foliage
• Dead or dying branches
• Short and dense shoots on the trunk or branches of the tree
• Newly formed cavities or decay in the trunk
• Mushrooms or fungus on the trunk or the root collar
• Slimy, wet, or oozing patches on the trunk or large limbs of the tree

Protecting Your Florida Oak Trees Means They Will Be A Beautiful Addition To Your Yard For Years to Come

Florida oak trees are one of the most beautiful plants in Florida. Their signature branches crossing over our roads, covered in Spanish moss, make some of the most picturesque tableaus in the state.

If you take care of your oaks they will be around for quite a long time. The native Florida oak tree can live 100, sometimes 200 years and provide nourishment for wildlife and lumber for humans.

So grab a book and make your way to the yard to enjoy the shade of that big oak tree and bask in the glory of this Florida native.

Looking for someone to handle the maintenance for you? We would be happy to take a look at your trees and set you up on a maintenance plan.

Contact us here at Warner Tree Service today and we look forward to meeting you and your beautiful landscaping.