Some herbs are not hardy, so you move them to a light, frost-free room. A good place is for example the windowsill. Most fruit trees, including apple and pear trees, should be pruned between December and March. Prune plums and cherries just after they have borne fruit. This is because the wound of the plant heals less quickly in the winter months, which would make fungal diseases more likely.
Tying up fruit trees
Fruit trees are trained for easier harvesting. It also has ornamental value in the garden. Tie the main trunk and main branches to a frame or wall with guidance. Always use binding tube: this material will stretch as the branches get thicker.
Water management of the soil
Young trees are extra vulnerable to drying out. Adjust the amount of water to the needs of the tree, the type of soil and the groundwater level. Follow the instructions of the supplier or nurseryman. Continue to care for the tree even when you are on vacation. Adjust the temperature of the water to the temperature of the soil. Do not give too much water at once prevent the bottom from ‘closing up’. Using the Ecolawn compost applicator comes useful in this case.
Soil improvement trees
Add organic soil improver once a year.
Feeding and fertilizing trees
Adjust the amount and type of organic fertilizers to the tree species. Be cautious with nitrogen.
Trim trees
Pollard willows and similar trees that are being truncated, such as some trained trees, are pruned back to the same height as the year before each year. Then you will keep the characteristic pollard on the main trunk and branches. Prune in the winter period: then the sap flow will stop.
Crowning trees
In order to be able to walk or drive well under a tree, it is necessary to allow the branches to grow at a greater height. This is called crowning. Make sure to guide its growth, otherwise the tree’s crown will lose its shape. When in doubt, do not just remove a branch, but ask an expert for advice.
Guide trees
Espalier trees are guided throughout the growing season to maintain proper shape. Use a special binding tube for this. That gives way when the branches get thicker.
Prune trees
Trees are best pruned in the winter, when the sap flow is at a standstill. Do not prune more than twenty percent of the crown volume per year. In the summer and autumn it storms more often. Before and after a storm, check the tree for starting cracks at the attachment of branches. Be cautious about pruning main branches. Then you prevent irreparable damage to the shape of the crown.
Frost protection trees
Non-hardy trees, such as olive and palm trees, must be protected from frost and moisture. Use a ‘light hose’ that also gives off heat. Turn it around the trunk and wrap the tree with a special acrylic cloth. Protect the roots with straw, burlap and leaves. Prevent damage from moisture, as this increases the influence of frost. Preferably place non-hardy trees, such as Mediterranean species, indoors in a greenhouse or other light room in winter.
Keeping tree mirrors weed free
By keeping the space around the trunk free from vegetation, the tree roots have less competition in absorbing rainwater that penetrates the soil. Mature trees have a sufficiently widespread root system, so that they can tolerate low or high planting at the trunk. And remember, not everything is weeds. Some herbs protect the tree against diseases or pests.
