24th July 2025
A guide to caring for your trees: Ten Tips from our Experts at ArborSafe
Whether you're planting something new on this National Tree Day or giving a big gum in your backyard some extra love, taking care of your trees can make a huge difference – not just to your garden, but to the environment around you.
To find out the best ways to care for your trees – while doing your bit on National Tree Day, we spoke with ArborSafe Services Manager – Luke Dawson. Here he shares 10 practical tips for keeping your trees healthy, safe, and thriving.
1. Spotting Signs of a Happy (or Unhappy) Tree
Is your tree’s foliage vigorous and the right colour for the season? That’s a good indicator of health. Sparse or discoloured foliage, chewed leaves, or visible pests could mean your tree is stressed.
“Foliage density and colour is a good starting point,” says Luke. “However, it’s species and season dependent. Look at what a good example of these species should look like and do a comparison.”
If you’re not sure what’s normal, it’s okay to ask for help. A consulting arborist will able to provide guidance on how to manage any health issues.
2. Get Your Trees Checked
How often should you get a professional to inspect your tree?
“It will be different depending on a range of factors. If the tree is in a high occupancy area or has a history of issues where there’s a potential risk to others, then annually might be appropriate. However, if the tree is in a low occupancy area, is smaller in size of had no known issues then every few years might be appropriate,” Luke advises.
In places like schools, camping/caravan sites, or other sites with regular human occupancy more frequent checks may be needed. A Consulting Arborists can work with you to advise on the most appropriate frequency, which may differ for different parts of your sites or even for individual trees.
Ad-hoc assessments may also be required following a big storm or where changes to the local environment may impact a trees health or structure. Remember identification of health issues or structural defects earlier in a tree’s life makes for more effective management.
“Overwatering is just as damaging as underwatering,” says Luke. “It’s about having a knowledge of the soil. It is important to monitor moisture levels and adjust accordingly.”
3. Water Smarter, Not More
Watering can be tricky in Australia’s often dry climate. The good news is that many native trees are drought-tolerant. Still, certain trees such as young/juvenile plantings, non-natives, or species not suited to the local climate may need a bit of extra help during long dry spells.
A study by the University of Melbourne found that during the Millennium Drought, trees in urban areas with inconsistent watering suffered significant canopy loss – especially non-natives. So regular, deep watering (rather than frequent light sprinkling) is key when needed.
Tip: A soil moisture meter can help you avoid the guesswork.
4. Mulch Is Magic—In Moderation
Mulch can do wonders for your tree: it keeps moisture in, weeds out, roots cool and can add organic matter to improve soil structure. But don’t go overboard.
“Hardwood, well composted mulch is generally best, over pine mulch or those that incorporate dyes,” Luke says.
Avoid green mulch or wood shavings/sawdust, which can rob the soil of nutrients. Keep mulch approximately 5–10 cm deep and spread to the extent of the drip zone where space allows, but not piled up against the trunk (no mulch volcanos, please!).
5. Pruning: Do It Right or Not at All
While winter is typically regarded as the best time to prune, Luke says good technique matters much more than timing. “Incorrect pruning can lead to unnecessary wounds and decay, poor structure, or even tree death, not to mention look visually unattractive” he warns.
How much is too much?
“It varies. Some species can tolerate heavy pruning while others may be less tolerant. The health and even age of the tree can have a bearing on how the tree will respond” Luke explains.
If you’re not sure, get advice from a consulting arborist, or horticulturist or use a reputable qualified arborist to perform the work for you.
6. Know When to Call in the Pros
Some tree jobs are best left to the experts. “Small branches may be fine,” Luke says, “but if you're not qualified or comfortable, best to leave it to professionals.”
Things like pruning of large branches, tree removal, cable and bracing, or transplanting larger trees all need specialist tools and knowledge. This is particularly the case when trees are near infrastructure or overhead powerlines/service wires.
Safety should always come first so if a tree overhangs your house, buildings or any other assets then consider getting an arborist to assess it first. Trees near power lines? Contact your local energy provider.
7. Keep Pests at Bay – Naturally
Whether it is Elm Leaf Beetles in Melbourne, Pink Wax Scale in Sydney, Shothole Borer in Perth or Armillaria anywhere across Australia, pests and diseases are a part of life for our trees.
Prevention often starts in the soil. “Build healthy soil for healthy trees,” says Luke. “The healthier the tree, the more resistant it is to disease.”
He also recommends planting a variety of species and avoiding monocultures, thereby encouraging birds and insects that can help keep pests under control. Think companion planting!
8. Prepare for Storm Season
Storms and strong winds are becoming more common, and all trees can be vulnerable during severe weather.
“Even healthy well structured trees can fail in a storm,” Luke says. “But if you can identify defects within your trees and remediate those defects, then the likelihood of failures will be reduced.”
9. Choose the Right Tree for the Right Spot
If you’re planting a tree this National Tree Day, think long-term. How big will it grow? Is the location suitable? Is the soil suitable?
Luke suggests checking your local council website for a list of local species that are likely to perform well within your area, not to mention enhance the local biodiversity. “Council’s often list local species suited to different garden sizes and soil types,” he says.
If you’re planting an advanced tree or moving/transplanting an established tree, then expert help will give it the best chance to thrive.
10. Seasonal Tree Care Basics
Late autumn through to early spring are great times to perform those well needed tree maintenance jobs such as mulching, pruning and general TLC.
“Some mulch is often better than no mulch at all, so make sure there’s a good layer of quality mulch down in time for the warmer weather,” Luke advises.
Be careful when attempting to apply garden fertilisers. These can help, however, don’t go overboard and only apply it if a soil test shows a deficiency. Generic all round seaweed-based solutions are usually better as they offer a gentle health boost without the potential for disrupting the nutrient balance in the soil.
Final Thought
Healthy trees aren’t just beautiful – they help cool our cities, clean our air, and support local wildlife.
“Healthy, well-structured trees of species that are suited to the local area are better able to withstand pests, disease, and severe weather,” says Luke. With a little attention and care (plus the occasional expert opinion), your trees can flourish for generations to come.
Need More Info?
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Contact your local council for species lists, soil info, and local planting guidelines.