April Showers? Make Sure They Only Bring May Flowers

April showers bring May flowers, right?

Well, sometimes. Sometimes they bring something else, such as the standing water and constant moisture that fungus just loooove to take root in. You already know there’s lots of rain coming our way this spring, so now’s the time to take protective steps. Here are five of the best.

  1. Beware of Rainy Dangers

First and foremost, you need to be ready for the rain, which means swales and runoff channels that divert water from the roots of trees. Protect trees close to houses by ensuring that drainpipes don’t empty onto their roots, which is a perfect condition for root rot, and clear out gutters so they don’t spill large amounts of water on the trees from above.

  1. Create a Safe Environment

You can also protect trees by maintaining a fungus-unfriendly yard. Don’t leave decaying leaf litter or branches lying around. Pick up and coil hoses on carts or hooks. Stack firewood neatly, somewhere away from trees. Prune trees carefully at their appointed pruning time (many can be pruned in early spring) to clear out branches and create circulation for light and air, both of which combat fungus.

  1. Spray Trees

Fungicide can be used, but be sure to use it properly. “Apply a protective fungicide spray to the newly emerging foliage,” horticulturist Jerry Goodspeed tells Utah State University. “Repeat the application every 10 to 14 days. When buying a spray, be certain the target tree is on the label.”

If you prefer a natural alternative, well… try good old-fashioned pee.

  1. Stay Alert

One of the best ways to fight fungus, though, is to use the simple “keep your eyes peeled” approach. If you see the stippling or spotting that fungus causes, it’s best to remove affected branches, leaves, or even full trees immediately. Also, watch out for yellowing or shriveling that seems at odds with the amount of rain; this often indicates root rot and means you need to remove a tree entirely.

  1. Get Help

Think you might have a fungus problem? NOT a problem. The guys at Premier Tree Solutions have your back. Our growing tree removal business in Atlanta specializes in a number of areas, including tree pruning and removal, storm cleanup and stump grinding, branch clearing and debris removal.

Whether you’ve got a small infection on your hands or a full outbreak, we know exactly how to help you get your yard back into shape, and fast. Just get in touch. Let us know how we can help today at 404-252-6448 or contact us here.