Let’s talk about trees—specifically how to care for them for long-term health. This topic was inspired by a recent check-up with my doctor. I have seen the live oak pictured many times while visiting the office and have often thought it would make a good article topic. Just like managing our own health, taking care of trees is a lifelong commitment.

You’ve probably heard the saying about good intentions. Looking at this live oak, it’s clear that its care began with good intentions, but somewhere along the way, follow-through was missing. The stakes and straps left on the tree far too long are the most obvious problem, but there are several other issues as well. Can you spot them?

Before focusing on this particular tree, let’s review some best practices for establishing a healthy tree from the start.

Tree care begins with proper selection and planting. First, choose the right tree for the right location. Select species that are well adapted to our climate and soil conditions. Always consider the mature height and width of the tree. It’s far easier to choose a tree that fits the space than to try to control an oversized tree through repeated pruning.

Planting technique also plays a major role in long-term success. Late fall through late winter is the best time to plant trees in Louisiana. Trees can be planted year-round, but those planted during the cooler months experience less stress from heat and drought. Dig the planting hole three times as wide as the root ball and only as deep as the soil in the container. Backfill using the native soil removed from the hole and never cover the root flare at the base of the trunk. Water thoroughly after planting and continue to water regularly during the first year.

Newly planted trees are often staked to protect them from wind, but staking is not always necessary. It is generally only needed for top-heavy trees, those planted in high-traffic areas, or sites with constant strong winds. When staking is used, straps should be wide—at least one inch—and flexible. Attach them between one-third and two-thirds of the way up the trunk, below the first branches. Stakes should typically be removed after the first growing season. Leaving straps on too long can lead to girdling, restricted growth, and weak wood where the trunk envelops the material.

Mulching is another practice that is often done incorrectly. Mulch helps suppress weeds, conserve soil moisture, and moderate soil temperature. However, “mulch volcanoes” like the one shown around this tree can cause serious problems. Keep mulch two to four inches deep and pulled several inches away from the trunk. Mulch should never touch the bark. Excess mulch can trap moisture against the trunk, leading to decay, disease, insect infestation, rodent damage, and the development of girdling roots.

The final obvious issue with this live oak is poor branching structure. Trees should be trained early to develop strong branches. This tree has low branches and several with sharp angles emerging from the same plane, creating weak branch unions. Over time, this structure increases the risk of splitting and decay. Strong U-shaped branch attachments are much more wind resistant and should be encouraged through proper pruning.

As trees grow, pruning can help develop a strong, storm-resilient canopy. When pruning, remove competing leaders, branches that originate from the same spot, narrow V-shaped attachments, crossing branches, broken or diseased limbs, and branches growing toward the center of the tree. Make clean cuts just outside the branch collar—never flush against the trunk. Most importantly, never “top” trees – this greatly increase the risk for storm failure.

As we head into the hurricane season, here is a pre-storm inspection checklist to help you evaluate your trees ahead of a storm.

Following these simple steps can help trees develop strong root systems and sound structure, making them more resistant to wind damage and other environmental stresses. Treat your trees well from the beginning, and they’ll reward you for decades to come.