Tree love in your own garden: How to care for your trees properly

Table of Contents

• The key to tree care: proper watering.
• Healthy soil, strong roots and the power of mycorrhiza
• Provide trees with nutrients, but don't fertilize them unnecessarily.
• Pruning trees
• Identifying diseases and pests
• Winter protection: well prepared for the cold season
• Observe the tree and build a relationship
• Plant a tree

Trees are silent giants. They define focal points, create atmosphere, provide shade, and are an important habitat for birds and other animals. If you have an edible tree, you can also likely enjoy a good harvest year after year.

Although trees are robust and resilient, they also need the right care. In this article, you will learn what you can do to ensure the health of the trees in your garden. 

The key to tree care: proper watering.

Water is life and watering trees properly is the single most important factor contributing to the health of your tree. We have already written a detailed article on this topic, which you can find here: How can I water trees properly?

In addition, you will find specific information here about Watering trees throughout the year: The ultimate guide for spring, summer, autumn and winter. 

And here you can find information on the topic Trees in drought stress

Healthy soil, strong roots and the power of mycorrhiza

When we think about the health of a tree, we usually look first at the crown, the leaves, or the fruit. In reality, a tree's vitality is determined primarily underground: healthy soil is the foundation for strong trees. Roots, a good supply of nutrients and long-term growth.

Loose, humus-rich, and living soil is particularly important for healthy trees. In such soil, the roots can spread easily and are simultaneously supported by countless soil organisms. Earthworms, microorganisms, fungi, and other soil creatures help to break down organic matter, make nutrients available, and improve soil structure.

A special role is played by the so-called mycorrhizaThis is a natural symbiotic relationship between tree roots and specific soil fungi. The fine fungal threads surround the roots or connect directly to them. This increases the tree's absorption surface many times over.

You can actively promote the soil life around your tree. Particularly helpful are: Mulch layers made from leaves, wood chips, or other organic material. They protect the soil from drying out, provide food for soil organisms, and contribute to humus formation in the long term. Also compost and organic fertilizers such as  Worm compost They support a healthy soil ecosystem. Avoid unnecessary soil compaction You should also avoid frequent digging in the root area.

Caring for not only the tree but also the soil lays the foundation for healthy growth for many years to come. Strong trees don't just grow above ground – they primarily emerge from living soil.

Provide trees with nutrients, but don't fertilize them unnecessarily.

Besides water, light, and healthy soil, trees need various nutrients. These include, in particular, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, as well as various trace elements.

Additional fertilization is not necessary for every tree. In healthy soil, many nutrients can be made available again and again through natural cycles. Leaves, dead plant matter, and organic material are decomposed by soil organisms and thus contribute to the nutrient supply.

If a tree shows yellow leaves, weak growth, or other abnormalities, this does not automatically mean that it lacks fertilizer. Drought, waterlogging, soil compaction, damaged fine roots, or an unsuitable pH value can also lead to insufficient absorption of available nutrients.

Before fertilizing a weakened tree, it's worth taking a close look at the soil, water supply, and root system. You can find out more in our articles. Recognizing nutrient deficiency in trees and How do you properly fertilize trees?

Pruning trees

Not every tree needs to be pruned regularly. Whether and when pruning is advisable depends on the tree species, the age of the tree, and the purpose of the pruning.

In fruit trees, for example, proper pruning can influence crown structure and fruit production. With other trees, pruning may be necessary to remove dead or damaged branches or to correct crown deformities at an early stage.

However, every cut causes an injury that the tree must compartmentalize and heal over. Therefore, the general rule is: only prune when there is a good reason, and have major pruning work carried out professionally.

Especially with large trees or thick branches, it's advisable to consult a professional tree care company. You can find more information in the article. Properly Pruning Trees.

Identifying diseases and pests

Discolored leaves, dead shoots, or unusual changes to the bark and crown can indicate disease or pest infestation. However, not every abnormality automatically means there is a pest.

Drought stress, waterlogging, nutrient deficiencies, root damage, or unfavorable site conditions can also cause similar symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable to determine the cause as precisely as possible before taking any action.

Not every infestation needs to be treated. Many trees cope well with a certain level of browsing or insect infestation. At the same time, numerous insects are important components of the ecosystem.

A natural garden with diverse plants and habitats for birds and other beneficial insects can help promote a stable ecological balance. In cases of severe or unclear infestation, a professional assessment may be advisable.

Winter protection: well prepared for the cold season

Some trees need protection in winter, especially young trees and those that are not native. A layer of mulch protects the roots from frost, and a jute sack around the trunk prevents frost damage to the bark. If necessary, you can also cover sensitive trees with a reed mat or fleece. Another option is to Lime paint. 

Observe the tree and build a relationship

We recommend that you observe the tree and get to know it better. How is it developing? Is it healthy? Important indicators for its leaves are leaves, fruit and growth. What does your tree need?

Plant a tree

If you want to plant your own tree, you can find in this article All the important information. And if you're still unsure which tree is best for you, here are our recommendations: 

The best trees for small gardens

The best native trees for ecologically valuable gardens

The best edible trees for the garden: fruit, nuts & morefrom our own harvest

The best trees with beautiful blossoms

The best trees for heat and drought: climate-resilient species for the garden

The best trees for beautiful autumn foliage

The best trees for pots, patios and balconies

Baumbad liquid fertilizer made from worm compost

If additional nutrients are needed, you can support your tree with an organic fertilizer. Baumbad liquid fertilizer made from worm compost It is produced during worm composting and contains dissolved plant nutrients as well as components of the worm compost.

The liquid fertilizer is diluted with water and applied to the root area. This allows additional nutrients to be supplied to the soil during the growth phase.

However, it's important to note that not every weakened tree needs fertilizer. If your tree shows yellow leaves, weak growth, or other abnormalities, you should first check whether drought, waterlogging, soil compaction, or damage to the root system might be the cause.

Fertilization is particularly useful when there is actually an additional need for nutrients.