Soil amendments must be introduced to help restore the nutrients, micronutrients, mychorrizae and other elements needed for root growth.

However, when you fertilize a tree, the material should be injected into the soil where tree roots have access. Trees need their space. Remove the turf from under tree canopies and replace it with mulch. Don't replace it with deep rooted plants, as deeper than 6 inch tilling of the bed can destroy essential roots in the tree's critical root zone. Building up the soil around the trunk can suffocate the tree causing poor health and even death.

Protect the critical root zone. Damage in the critical root zone can kill a tree. Death may not be instantaneous. It can often be a slow three to six year process. Some species can tolerate more damage and loss in the critical root zone than others. Only an arborist can tell you for sure how much damage a tree can tolerate.

Depending on the area, trees may or may not need supplemental watering. Consult a professional arborist for recommendations.

Take time to look up as you walk a site. Notice dead or dying limbs. Worry if a tree is prematurely losing its leaves or appears to have an infestation of some kind. Most importantly, call a professional arborist for help when you see any of these signs.

Trees are complex organisms. While shrubs rebound from a bad cut in one season, and grass rebounds in weeks, trees can take years to recover from bad pruning cuts and other damage. Many never recover and the long term effects can cause the tree to fail in high winds or heavy snow,

Protect yourself and your trees by working with a professional arborist with a proven track record. ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification is a good starting point, as it attests to an established level of knowledge about trees and their care. Also look for membership in The National Arborist Association. Remember, most states have no state license for arborists. Anyone with a pole saw can say they’re qualified. Be sure to check references, visit properties and trust your instincts when choosing an arborist.